McCONNELL — Vacation Bible School at the First Baptist Church of McConnell will begin Monday, July 23, and continue through Friday, July 29, at 7 p.m. The theme for this year’s VBS is “The Coming of the Lord”; the Bible lessons are about the greatest future event of world history.

“The Lord’s coming is the next prophetic event on God’s timetable. As you view world events which correspond with the Scripture, you can see Jesus’ coming is at hand,” said Rev. John E. Godby, pastor. “The objective of the lessons will be to teach about personal preparedness and expectation of His return for His church.”

The First Baptist Church of McConnell Vacation Bible School is unique because the lessons are not store bought material. Godby and staff have originated them. There is a class for everyone, nursery through adult. The adult class will be taught by visiting Missionary-Evangelist, Michael Gibson of St. Lucia in the Caribbean Sea. Gibson will be performing “Gospel Magic” each night that mystifies the children.

On Sunday evening, July 22, there will be a kick-off bonus day. Starting at 5 p.m. there will be a VBS Parade followed by games in the church parking lot, including a hayride and competitions with prizes. This will be followed by food and fellowship. Each person attending will receive bonus points that will be tallied for winning prizes during the VBS Bible Contest.

Each evening of the VBS, flag pledges, songs, and gospel skits will be featured. The VBS Bible Contest will involve two teams, “the Angels” and “the Saints”. Also, nightly the VBS will feature Red and Papaw Puppets, mystery seats, tee-shirts, crafts, and refreshments.

“The exciting Bible contest ignites great enthusiasm among the youth,” said Godby.

Each person will receive points for his/her team for attendance, carrying his/her own Bible, bringing people, memorizing Bible verses, and reciting the pledges and the books of the Bible. Rewards are plentiful for the top achievers.

On Sunday evening, July 29, a closing program will be held so that each class can present a portion of what they have learned during the week. Awards will also be presented at that time.

“Vacation Bible School at the First Baptist Church of McConnell has been a monumental spiritual success in past years,” said Godby. “With the theme of ‘The Coming of the Lord’, the humor of Red and Papaw Puppet, and the announcement of mystery seat winners, each evening of the school promises to be a reviving experience for those in attendance.”

For more information, call Pastor John E. Godby at 304-752-7774 or 304-752-7775.