Going Outback

June 11, 2024
I am with you always, even to the end of the age. ~ Matthew 28:2

Beloved - 
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The sanctuary looks positively delightful transformed into the Australian Outback, made entirely of cardboard, styrofoam, chicken wire and paint.  Lots of paint.  Thanks to Emily Briggs for the design and most of the painting.  Thanks to a crew of volunteers for the construction and set up.  Our first night was sweet as sweet can be with little kids in their plastic pith helmets, or party hats, as one toddler called hers.  The Bible lessons tell of a man named Joseph and how God stayed close when Joseph was in the well, in jail and in charge of a whole kingdom!

What a privilege and a joy to share our life together alongside sister congregations Red Door Church and McDoel Baptist Church yet another summer.  2024 makes the 27th year (minus 3 for pandemic) since we started doing VBS.  Kids who came when they were little are now teenagers helping lead the program.  At least one who attended now brings her little girl.  Layer upon layer, I like to say, of memories of church and church people welcoming kids in the name of Jesus.  I care less that they remember Bible stories than that they remember once upon a time being loved by people who claimed to love the Lord.

As always, it’s my privilege to serve the kingdom in the company of such precious people.

~ peace & prayers, 
pastor annette

How to donate:  Use this link to use the online Tithe.ly donation service.  It is not necessary to create a Tithe.ly account.  At the top of the form where you can choose which fund, select “Other”; and then in the Memo section at the bottom, add “VBS.”  You have the option to add on the processing fee of approximately $1 per $25 donation, but that is totally optional.
If you prefer, you can mail a check made out to University Baptist Church or simply to UBC and send it to 3740 E. 3rd St., Bloomington, IN 47401.  Of course, we would also love for you to bring it by !  (Call us at 812-339-1404 or email us to find out when we will be open.)