One year after campers explored outer space at Vacation Bible School at St. Viator Catholic Community in Las Vegas, this year they’re exploring an undersea adventure. Think coral reefs, colorful sea creatures and exotic plant life.
Associate Rosy Hartz talks to some of the campers.
These vivid images of the undersea world have taken over the parish center. The better to immerse campers and their teenage leaders in an ocean adventure that comes together with the theme: Scuba: Diving into a Friendship with God.
These young adult leaders are involved in the parish and some attended VYC, including Abby Hartz, Trevor Lyon and Amy Ochoa.
Viatorian Associate Rosy Hartz organizes VBS each year in her role as Faith Formation Coordinator. She and leaders from her Viator Youth Group run the week. Most of these young leaders attended VBS themselves — and many attended Viatorian Youth Congress in June — and now are actively involved in helping a younger generation develop a rich faith life.
“We’re going deep into an amazing undersea adventure where children experience the ever-flowing, never ending love of God,” Rosy says. “They’re immersed in the Word and discover what living water is really all about.”
Luke Silvestri, a graduate of the Micah Program, is a leader, shown here with Amanda
In all, more than 60 children from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade turned out for the summer faith experience, with nearly 20 youth leaders. Campers rotate through different stations, including crafts, inspiring songs, monumental games and an imagination station.
Trevor Lyon, who was a leader at VYC, shares his faith with these campers.
“Every morning we open with a Bible verse of the day,” Rosy says, “and we close each day with our theme song. It’s a great week, with lots of energy and fun.”
The innovative Vacation Bible School is one more way Viatorians advance their mission, of “raising up communities where faith is lived, deepened and celebrated,” and to accompany young people as educators of the faith.