27 youth and 11 adults attended a Hands-On Mission Experience for Tweens, Service Squad, during VBS week at First Presbyterian Church.  Daily scripture “nuggets,” a photo journal, and mission outings worked together to reinforce the week’s theme of “God loves you.  Share the love.” 

On Monday we gathered, read scripture about our theme, played getting to know you games, worked on jean pocket bags for the DuPage Convalescent Center residents, and made 25 sack lunches for PADS.  On Tuesday half of our group went to the People’s Resource Center and worked in the Market and Clothing rooms.  The other half went to the DuPage Convalescent Center to help with a music program.  On Wednesday, because of rain, we stayed at church and wrote letters to our Compassion International-sponsored child, carecards to our homebound members, worked in our journals, and made fourth of July favor cups, also for the DuPage Convalescent Center.  Thursday found us back at the People's Resource Center working in the food market and at Blackwell fishing with some of the residents from DuPage Convalescent Center.  We wrapped up the week with gardening on the church grounds and counting the shoes donated for “Stuff For The Poor.”  It was a wonderful week.  We made new friends and shared God’s love.

At the same time as the youth entering Grades 5 through 8 participated in Service Squad, children entering 4 year old preschool through Grade 4 enjoyed Galactic Blast, their theme for VBS 2010, including Bible stories, games, activities, crafts, music, being with their friends, and making new friends.  The adult and high school student volunteers did a wonderful job making the event a success!