The sanctuary at Bridgeport United Methodist Church was nothing less than awe-inspiring as the parishioners entered last weekend. With 275 hand-made quilts on display, they were treated to an interactive tapestry as they celebrated their 2016 Vacation Bible School theme, Bind Us Together Lord.

 

“The quilts became a symbol of many pieces joined together to remind us of the binding of love that exists in God through Christ,” said VBS Director Carla Engle. When she created the theme, she asked the congregation to allow the church to borrow quilts for the lesson.

 

“I expected 20 or 25 quilts and thought they would look pretty in the front of the sanctuary,” said Engle.  “The response was overwhelming as 275 quilts arrived and I had the privilege of placing them on display.”

 

As people arrived, there were audible gasps, looks of awe, and some even had tears in their eyes.  The church was transformed into a reflection of the layers of connectivity represented by the display and the lessons behind the quilts transported the children back to the 1700s when the Methodist Church was founded.

 

Throughout the weekend, Vacations Bible School participants traveled back in time to learn about what life was like when John Wesley began Methodism.  The theme continued as Reverend Ken Ramsey portrayed a Circuit riding preacher and children donned t-shirts that had the quilted logo on the front and terms commonly used in the time period listed on the back.

 

“ I wanted to use the t-shirts as a learning tool,” said Engle. “In keeping with the theme all weekend, the children would hear a lot of terminology they might be unfamiliar with. We decided to define several of those terms on the back of the shirt to enhance the lesson and demonstrate what life was like back then.”

Artists from Fort New Salem were present to talk about pioneer times and give demonstrations of spinning, woodworking, and quilting.  They brought in Appalachian toys and even had goats and horses with them.  In keeping with the theme, the musical guests played fiddle, dulcimer, chickering harp, guitar, bass, and banjo and the children helped make hushpuppies and hand-churned ice cream.

 

One of the highlights of the VBS was an appearance by John Wesley himself, portrayed by Steve Engle.  He brought to life the spirit of the founder of the church and spoke about the principles on which it was founded.  “The kids loved getting a visit from someone who made such an impact on their lives and spiritual practices,” Engle said. 

 

The theme was carried out throughout all three services on July 30 and 31, culminating in a dinner on the grounds on Sunday. 

 

“As we were surrounded by the quilts, we were literally surrounded by a cloud of witnesses affirming that we are not alone,” said Engle.  “We are so grateful for the generosity that allowed us to demonstrate God’s love in such a creative and memorable way.”