After our Saturday and Sunday ministries at Calvary Baptist Church, the team headed to Faith Baptist Church to team up with Pastor Frank and his crew. It was great to see the Guglielmo family again as well as members of their church as we ministered together during their three-day Holiday Kid’s Club (aka VBS). Having the theme “Jesus Paid It All,” our team jumped right in with Madison, Marenda, Josh, and Karina being the group leaders of about 20 kids. Trevor, Chris, and Christina assisted with games as the kids enjoyed several creative games such as an obstacle courses, tug-o-war, giant ball soccer, and a good ‘ole fashioned snowball fight (it is winter time, you know).
Of course, we can’t forget the world-famous (ok, maybe not–but they are now open for church bookings) puppet team led by Morgan, Ben, Chris, and Cailyn that helped begin each day’s theme–a special thanks to Morgan for writing our puppet scripts! The puppet team practiced their puppet scripts while driving to the program each morning, but I’m not sure whether or not it was “productive” practice or not?!? To help parallel what Pastor Frank was teaching the children, Trevor and Christina shared their salvation testimonies during Day 1 and Day 2 and Madison provided a Gospel Salvation story on Day 3. In-between the lessons and group time, the children earned points by completing games and spent those points at the various “stores” that had small gifts, lollies (candy), food and drink treats, and fairy floss (cotton candy). The Faith Baptist Church kitchen crew were phenomenal in keeping us refreshed and well-fed during Morning Tea and Lunch time–we have a feeling that trying to lose any weight while in Australia is going to be quite difficult! ;0)
On Wednesday evening, the team treated the Guglielmos out to eat at their favorite Italian restaurant. After Tea (aka dinner), it was a very special time as we were able to minister to Faith Baptist during their Bible Study and Prayer Meeting (which was their their first time meeting back face-to-face on a Wednesday evening since COVID). The team provide special music, Karina shared her testimony, and Dr. Cirone shared a message from I Kings 19.
In thinking through the week, the most memorable opportunity was when Madison had an opportunity to lead a young girl named Meryl to the Lord which thrilled everyone’s hearts. You would be proud of each team member as it was great to see each one using their gifts and talents for the Lord with some even finding some new talents–the team continues to bond well with our ministries as well as with each other. We are very thankful for these opportunities to serve alongside of our brothers and sisters in Christ and are appreciative of the common bond we have in Christ. Praise the Lord for Faith Baptist Church and for the Guglielmos!
Our Love to All,
Team Australia
