“Faith Alive” was this year’s theme for the community Vacation Bible School/Day Camp program at First English Lutheran Church in Platteville.

The week was led by the Day Camp staff from Sugar Creek Bible Camp. More than 50 first- through fifth-grade youth from First English Lutheran Church, Lutheran Church of Peace, First Congregational Church and New Hope Church were taught about communion, baptism, prayer, hospitality and service. Ten youth aged 13 through 15 acted as junior counselors assisting where needed, but learning right along with the rest of the group.

On Monday the youth played “get acquainted” games because with six churches represented, not everyone knew each other. They talked about Communion and how Christians share the Holy Sacrament with not just their home congregations, but with a whole community of faith. On Tuesday, discussions about Baptism included water games on the church lawn. Wednesday brought a discussion of prayer, an in-depth look at the Lord’s Prayer, and different ways to share thoughts with God.

On Thursday, the topic was hospitality and service, which was truly exemplified by First English opening its doors to give participants relief from the heat outside. During a short program on Thursday evening, family and friends got to hear a sample of the songs the children learned during the week and then shared a potluck meal together.

“Without the help from the volunteers from all the congregations this VBS/Day Camp experience would not have been possible,” said Rev. Michael Short, pastor of First English. “Thanks to those who helped organize volunteers, collected registrations, helped in the kitchen with meals and helped clean-up after all the excitement. There were a lot of people who worked behind the scenes to make this happen; thank you for your involvement and showing your living faith.”