Kirralee Nicolle
25 May 2022
Primary-aged children are set to descend on St John’s Diamond Creek for the Going Bananas program for the first time since COVID-19 hit.
St John’s children and families minister Kylie Pilkington said that the program was focused on fun, but the goal was to reach those who were approaching a critical point in their Christian journey.
She said the program was fast paced, with a blend of music, crafts, science, games and Bible teaching.
Ms Pilkington said that this year the theme was set to be Anchors Aweigh, a seafaring adventure which focused on the truth of Jesus as an anchor through the storms of life.
“We are mentoring those we hope will be the church leaders of the future,” she said.
Ms Pilkington said that 144 children attended the program in 2019, including those from both church and non-church backgrounds.
She said that the children ranged in age from prep to grade 6, and upon graduation, were invited to return as volunteers.
She said that as a result, volunteers ranged in age from 12 to over 70 years old.
“Our vision is to be an inter-generational community who loves Jesus and loves sharing Jesus,” Ms Pilkington said.
“[Through the program], we can tap into the energy of our youth and young adults while also drawing on the wisdom of our older leaders.”
Ms Pilkington said the school holiday program ran each year for 20 years from its inception in 2000.
In 2020 and 2021, the team was forced to take a break due to COVID-19.
Going Bananas will be held at St John’s Diamond Creek from June 29 to July 1. See here to register or find out more.
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