Shown are the young participants and volunteers of St. Martin Parish’s summer 2026 Vacation Bible School, which also raised money for a local foster support organization this year. COURTESY OF NICOLE GRAY
St. Martin VBS 2026 supports The Foster Shop
BY NICOLE GRAY, SPECIAL TO THE WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC
Three years ago, St. Martin Parish director of religious education, Debi Hopkins, had a vision of creating more than just a summer activity for children. She wanted Vacation Bible School to become a place where families could grow in their faith, build friendships, and strengthen the sense of community within our parish.
Today, that vision continues to flourish.
This year’s Bible Adventures Vacation Bible School welcomed 67 children, more than 20 youth assistants, and more than 30 adult volunteers who gave countless hours to make the week a success. Children are divided into the 12 “Tribes of Israel” and experience the bible in a hands-on way through storytelling, crafts, games, music, food, and interactive encounters with biblical figures. Every activity helps bring Scripture to life while teaching children about their faith and the rich history of God’s people.
While the learning and fun are important, Hopkins believes one of the greatest blessings of VBS is the community it creates. Each year, the parish also chooses a local nonprofit to support through donations collected during this free event. This year, St. Martin is partnering with The Foster Shop, formerly known as Borrowed Hearts Owensboro. The organization recently adopted its new name while continuing its mission of serving children in foster care and the families who welcome them into their homes.
The Foster Shop provides clothing, shoes, hygiene products, baby items, school supplies, and other everyday essentials to children entering foster care, often with very few personal belongings. Beyond meeting physical needs, the organization offers dignity, encouragement, and practical support to foster families throughout their journey. It also operates the Agape House, a welcoming space where children awaiting placement can shower, enjoy a warm meal, do laundry, and rest in a safe, comforting environment.
By supporting The Foster Shop through VBS, St. Martin Parish is helping extend Christ’s love beyond its own walls and into the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in our community. It’s another reminder that Vacation Bible School is about much more than one week in the summer – it’s about living our faith through learning, service, and love.
As of this writing we have over $1,200 in monetary donations to give to The Foster Shop.
Nicole Gray is the director of communications for St. Martin Parish in Rome, Ky.
Originally printed in the August 2026 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.
