Bring on the fun

What’s summer without a carnival? A lot less fun and educational, if you ask members of St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Galena, Ill.

At the conclusion of vacation Bible school, the congregation hosts a carnival, complete with games, prizes, dunk tank, music, balloons, cotton candy and popcorn. The “Heifer Family Fun Fair” raises money and awareness for Heifer International, an organization that works to end hunger and poverty.

James and Rachel McIntyre help out at the Heifer Family Fun Fair at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Galena, Ill., last summer. The animals at the fair—provided by residents—are the hit of the fair.

During Bible school, fifth- and sixth-graders create displays for the fair. At each game booth a display shows how Heifer supplies families in a certain country with the animals that will provide them a sustainable lifestyle. Lambs, a calf, chickens, a rabbit, ducks, a potbellied pig, a goat and guinea pigs are on hand to add a little realism to the displays.

Last year’s carnival raised $2,300 for Heifer (this year’s event in June took place after presstime). Funds come from donations and the sale of $1 tickets for games, food and activities.