East Baptist Church and Iglesia Fe Esperanza Amor teamed up to host a “Touch A Truck” event on July 11, 2023, as part of East Baptist Church’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) program. This initiative runs from July 7 to July 11, offering a range of activities for children aged 2 to 12, alongside an air-conditioned nursery for younger attendees and leadership training for those older than 12.
The VBS program is free of charge, providing not only engaging summer camp-style activities but also complimentary lunches and snacks throughout the day. Brian Gawlak, the associate pastor of youth, children, and outreach at East Baptist Church, highlighted the program’s accessibility, stating, “We want everybody to take part. We don’t want there to be any boundaries on kids coming.” He emphasized the church’s commitment to ensuring that financial considerations do not exclude any child from participating.
Gawlak also noted the growing partnership between East Baptist Church and Iglesia Fe Esperanza Amor. This collaboration began when East Baptist Church invited the Spanish-speaking congregation to join its bilingual international Sunday service. “It was the start of a really beautiful friendship between the churches,” he explained. The two congregations have since worked together on various events, including the current VBS.
Community Impact and Engagement
The event featured a visit from the Lynn Fire Department, which arrived at East Baptist Church around 14:00. Gawlak expressed his enthusiasm for the department’s participation, stating, “It gives these kids some motivation and encouragement to see these guys.” Fire Captain Mike Noon and firefighters Chris McGinn and Tony Uva showcased their fire truck and allowed children to spray water, creating an exciting and interactive experience.
“We enjoy showing up for them, and they definitely enjoy seeing what we do,” Noon remarked. “It’s really nice that we can give back to the community with events like this.” The firefighters’ presence not only entertained the kids but also fostered a sense of community engagement and respect.
Children participated in various activities during the event, including games like “drip, drip, drop,” where they enjoyed cooling off with water play. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy as children blew bubbles and participated in games, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the VBS.
A Welcoming Environment for All
Gawlak reiterated the importance of inclusion in their programming, emphasizing that the church aims to spread the love of Jesus without barriers. “The Body of Christ is united in service to our community as well as worshiping the Lord together privately,” he stated. “We can cross cultural bounds and different language barriers, all serving together for the glory of God.”
The collaboration between East Baptist Church and Iglesia Fe Esperanza Amor highlights the power of community partnerships in enhancing local outreach efforts. As both churches continue to work together, they aim to provide more opportunities for children and families to engage in uplifting activities.
Overall, the “Touch A Truck” event not only offered a fun experience for local children but also reinforced the commitment of both churches to serve and connect with the community, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued.
