Capri Christian Church Shining a Light

Fun was seen, felt, and had at the Family Kick-Off event at Capri Christian Church on Sunday afternoon in Isles of Capri.

This now annual event is the pre-party to a unique week-long evening vacation Bible school (VBS) for the entire family!

There were fairway games in the large parking lot, several sports-related stations including soccer, basketball, baseball, football, and even archery! A full-size miniature golf course was at the ready for excited golfers, and the line never slowed for attendees’ chances at hitting a bullseye on the dunk tank! The dunk tank saw a steady rotation of church faculty taking the seat, giving many a laugh to the eager pitchers.

When families needed to take an air-conditioning break, the church doors opened into an entirely transformed space, fitting this year’s VBS Theme: Illumination Station, Shining a Light on Who Jesus Really is, John 8:12.

Brightly colored decorations transported one into a world of color with plenty of balloons, signs, stars, and even footprints on the ground to lead your path.

The inside of the church was welcoming, with not only the engaging decorations, but the many smiling volunteers who provided face painting, temporary tattoos, and lots of snacks!

From snow cones and popcorn to pizza and chicken tenders, families snacked and munched while visiting each area, offering something fun and memorable for all ages.

The decorated classrooms also offered various video games for those interested in a gaming session before returning outside.

“This kick-off happens every year on the Sunday before we start,” said Karla Otis, the church’s front desk administrator.

She went on to describe the upcoming week. “Our VBS is a little different; we would like to have the entire family here. So, we have lessons for the little ones, for adults, for youth, for the entire family!”

The weeknight VBS runs Monday through Friday, June 15th-19th, from 5:00-7:30. It begins with a family dinner, followed by some music and worship, and then they are grouped together for lessons.

“The intention for us is to create an opportunity where the family can be together. Nowadays, you're running to drop off at school, then you run to pick up, doing this and that - you don't have time together. So, it is a purpose for all of us to be together here in that time,” Otis said with a smile.

The annual family VBS is open to the public, not just for their congregation, and they shared that they have families traveling down from North Naples and Golden Gate Estates to attend.

Everything is offered free of charge to the community.

The kick-off was a success in signifying the start of VBS and the start of summer with the church’s event purpose already coming to life: providing meaningful opportunity for parents, grandparents, and children to connect, grow, and create lasting memories together.