Trisha Parkey, left, (in purple) takes a look at some free clothing along with Ellen Scott (in yellow) and her daughter Abigale Scott, 10, of Edwardsburg. The free clothing was offered to Eagle Lake Estates residents from the Cass Baptist Church of Bloomburg, Texas, this week. The church is partnered with Ontwa Baptist Church south of Edwardsburg on Elkhart Road. (Argus photo submitted)

By OLLIE GUNTER

The Ontwa Baptist Church in Edwardsburg, at the corner of Elkhart Road and May Street, is teaming up with the Cass Baptist Church in Bloomburg, Texas for a Vacation Bible School and family activity this week at the Eagle Lake Estates.

There is free food and free clothing sponsored by the congregations.

Ontwa Baptist Church kicks off its own VBS starting Sunday, Aug. 8 at the Ontwa Baptist Church in Edwardsburg.

The VBS ends Friday, Aug. 13 with a program presented by the children and a graduation ceremony and meal at the church. The VBS is free and is open to children ages four to 18.

Participants do not have to belong to the church, and all are welcome.

This year’s theme is “Country Western” with a possible visit by “Hobo,” a retired member of the Cass County Sheriff’s Department Mounted Division.

He is too old to ride but loves to be petted and fed treats. He also likes to have his picture taken with children.

Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 8 at the church, which includes snacks, followed by the first VBS session at 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Each evening will be filled with Bible stories, crafts, music, snacks and games. There will also be a water dunk tank on Friday night for Pastor Michael Elsey.

“We will learn songs of praise and celebrate God’s love for all people. We will also explore ways we can share God’s love with others through our VBS mission project,” Elsey said.

VBS is a volunteer-led ministry, and volunteers are welcome. For more information, call (269) 501-7391 or e-mail topastormike @gmail.com.