Rainforest Falls: Planting seeds of faith

MARSHFIELD – For one week each summer, classrooms and gathering spaces at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hewitt transform into something entirely new.

One year it may be a journey north, another year an adventure through nature — and this summer, children will step beneath the trees and waterfalls of a rainforest.

But behind the colorful decorations, crafts, games and songs is a tradition that has been growing for more than two decades.

Immanuel Lutheran Church will welcome children and families for Rainforest Falls Vacation Bible School, taking place July 27 through Aug.2 at the church located at 7735 Yellowstone Drive in Hewitt.

The annual program, led through Immanuel’s Youth Ministry under the direction of Krista Krause, has been a part of the church community since 2003.

Each summer brings a new theme and a new adventure.

Last year’s theme, “True North,” helped guide children through lessons of faith.

This year’s Rainforest Falls theme invites kids to step into a world filled with towering trees, rushing waterfalls, colorful animals and rainforest sounds — all while exploring their relationship with God.

The goal, however, has remained the same for 23 years: helping children and families experience the joy of learning about Jesus in a fun, welcoming and memorable way.

“Rainforest Falls is a wonderful opportunity for kids to grow in faith, build friendships, and experience the love of God in a fun and welcoming environment,” said Youth & Children’s Ministry Director Krista Krause. “We are excited to invite children and families from throughout the community to join us for a week filled with music, crafts, games, learning and mission.”

Vacation Bible School will run Monday through Thursday, July 27–30, from 5-8 p.m.

Families will gather for supper at 5 p.m., followed by the evening’s activities beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The week concludes Sunday, Aug. 2, with a special VBS Sing-along during the 9 a.m. worship service.

Throughout the week, children will take part in games, skits, crafts, music, mission activities and Bible-based lessons designed to bring faith to life.

While the program is designed for children, volunteers are at the heart of making the experience possible.

Among those helping continue the tradition are retired Pastor Mark Krueger and his wife, Sandy.

Although Pastor Mark is retired, he continues volunteering at Immanuel while the congregation is between pastors.

One of the unique experiences he brings to VBS is a stained-glass activity for older participants, including upper elementary, middle school and high school students.

The project gives students a chance to learn not only the process of creating stained glass but also the meaning, patience, and craftsmanship behind the art.

For younger children, toddlers and preschoolers are encouraged to attend alongside a parent, grandparent or trusted adult to help them feel comfortable while participating.

Rainforest Falls also extends beyond the walls of the church through Operation Kid-to-Kid, a mission project focused on helping families in Central America.

Through a partnership with World Vision, children will raise money to provide fruit tree seedlings to families.

Those trees can offer nutritious food, improve family health, create opportunities for families to sell extra produce, and help communities grow as seedlings are shared with others.

A donation of $9 can provide one tree seedling for a family.

For Immanuel Lutheran Church, Vacation Bible School is more than just a summer activity.

It is a tradition built by years of volunteers, families and children coming together — creating memories while sharing lessons of faith, kindness and service.

For more information, visit  www.immanuelhewitt.org/register-for-vbs or contact Krause at youth@immanuelhewitt.org or the church office at (715) 384-5153.