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By MACKENZEE SIMMS | Staff Writer

HELENA – This summer, Helena Methodist Church transformed into an undersea adventure as children aged kindergarten through fifth grade spent their evenings diving into scripture at this year’s Vacation Bible School from June 10-13.

According to Children’s Director Cynthia Dooley, this year’s theme was “Scuba,” and featured six groups of children cycling through stations of bible stories, arts and crafts and music.

The final night of VBS featured a presentation for parents where the children performed the song they learned over the week. After, families enjoyed a meal while packing shoeboxes full of toiletries to send to children in Uganda through Sozo Ministry.

“(VBS) is just a great way for kids to learn about God in a fun environment,” Dooley said. “This week, we focused on diving into friendship with God and learning that God is a friend who loves, who trusts and is for everyone.”

After 31 years in ministry, this year marked Dooley’s last VBS before retirement, but she didn’t do it alone. The incumbent children’s director, Danielle Williams, and Dooley worked side by side this summer.

“I’ve helped with VBSs for many, many years, but this is my first one as children’s director,” Williams said. “It’s been a different ball game in that respect, but it’s been so much fun. I’ve enjoyed it a lot. I’m excited for many, many more.”

During her first VBS in this new position, Williams shared that her favorite moment was when a group of kids unexpectedly burst out in song in between activities.

“Everybody just stood up and started singing and dancing even though it wasn’t even like they had to or anything,” Williams said. “That was really cool, seeing them want to worship and want to be involved even in the moments of just resting.”

For Dooley, the highlight of her week was watching all the members of the youth ministry volunteering to help for VBS.

“I love seeing all the kids and our youth coming up, leading and how awesome they have been,” Dooley said. “Especially the guys getting involved with singing and dancing with the kids and having fun. That’s heartwarming to me.”

Those interested in more information about Helena Methodist Church can visit Helenamethodist.org.