Children on Naval Station Rota had a chance to strengthen their friendships and their faith at a vacation bible school (VBS) held at the base chapel, Aug. 17-21.

During the week-long program, themed "Journey Off the Map," more than 140 children enjoyed arts and craft stations, participated in skits and class discussions about scripture, played games, and held worship rallies.

The program was catered to children between 4- and 12-years old and was aimed at promoting relationships within the community and strengthening their faith.

"I really think it helps kids understand that there will be difficult times that we will go through and God is always with us in the midst of all of it," said Nate Johnson, VBS bible study leader. "Being a military kid, there are a lot of things they will encounter in their journey and they will know that God is with them in every circumstance they go through."

Rota's VBS has been held the last several years and the participation, both in children attending and volunteers, has grown each year.

Another opportunity afforded through VBS is a chance to raise money for Operation Christmas Child (OCC), the world's largest Christmas project of its kind. OCC sends gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need around the world to demonstrate God's love in a tangible way.

"The kids are bringing in their own money or raising money by doing work around their house or their neighborhood, and bringing it in to donate," said Kelly Terrell, VBS director. "Our goal is to raise $1,200, which would provide presents to 84 children worldwide, who normally don't ever receive anything. All of this is from the doing of the children here at VBS. They're able to have their own mission by collecting these donations."

On top of the 140 children who attended VBS, there were also more than 40 volunteers who help throughout the various stations, making the impact to the children and community that much greater.

"It shows the children that there is an entire community of faithful people," said Emily Squires, VBS music and worship leader. "This is a really big community of really amazing people. When they're grouped together in this way, they make big impacts that affect our base and also affect the rest of the world; like a chain reaction."

For more news from Naval Station Rota, Spain, visit www.navy.mil/local/rota/