Our Parish Playground

r.smith@saintfrancisparish.org (Rick Smith) — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 18:21:55 GMT

Building Joy: Help Us Launch Our Parish Playground

At St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, we believe that our parish grounds should be a place of joy, growth, and community for all ages—including our youngest parishioners. That’s why we are thrilled to announce Phase 1 of our new Parish Playground Project , and we’re inviting you to help bring it to life.

We’re just $12,000 away from our $55,000 Phase 1 goal , and with your support, we hope to break ground by this fall !

Why a Playground?

The new playground isn’t just about fun—it’s about fostering friendships, encouraging healthy play, and providing a safe, joyful space where children can grow in fellowship and wonder. It will be a place where laughter fills the air, where kids build memories after Mass, and where families can gather and connect.

As St. John Bosco wisely said:

“Run, jump, shout, but do not sin.”
—St. John Bosco

He understood that play is an essential part of childhood—something that nurtures both body and soul.

About the Playground

Phase 1 of our project will feature the exciting Banks and Drops PrimeTime play system by Playworld, specifically designed for children ages 5–12. Highlights include:

Catalina Climbing System – a textured surface that promotes sensory exploration
Dynamic Surge Climber – supporting multi-directional movement
Three Zip Slides – for exhilarating, laughter-filled fun

This structure will be a vibrant, central feature of our parish campus—where children can move, explore, and grow in a safe, welcoming space.

A Vision for the Future

The total cost for both phases of the playground is $96,000 , which includes additional equipment and enhancements to expand accessibility and play options for all age groups.

With your generosity, we can reach our Phase 1 goal of $55,000 and begin construction this fall —just in time for cooler weather and outdoor parish life.

Be Part of the Joy

Every gift, large or small, brings us closer to creating this joyful space for our parish families. If you’ve been looking for a way to make a lasting impact at St. Francis de Sales, this is your moment.

�� Click here to donate now and help build a place where our children can play, grow, and thrive in the heart of our parish.

Vacation Bible School 2025

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 21:40:05 GMT

Join Us This July

The "Babylon: Daniel’s Courage in Captivity" Vacation Bible School (VBS) program immerses children in the biblical narrative of Daniel, emphasizing unwavering faith amidst adversity. This curriculum is designed to engage children aged 5–12 through interactive storytelling, crafts, music, and games, all centered around key biblical events from the Book of Daniel.

�� Program Overview

Each day of the VBS program focuses on a specific story from Daniel's life, paired with a central Bible point and verse:

Day 1 : Daniel and his friends are taken to Babylon
Bible Point : When things change, God is with you.
Key Verse : “For God has said, ‘I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.’” — Hebrews 13:5
Day 2 : Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar’s dream
Bible Point : When you need help, God is with you.
Key Verse : “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” — Psalm 46:1 r-
Day 3 : Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace
Bible Point : When you’re afraid, God is with you.
Key Verse : “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.” — Isaiah 41:10
Day 4 : Daniel prays despite the king’s decree
Bible Point : When you’re lonely, God is with you.
Key Verse : “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” — Matthew 28:20
Day 5 : Daniel in the lions' den
Bible Point : When you’re thankful, God is with you.
Key Verse : “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” — 1 Chronicles 16:34

��️ Daily Activities

The program's structure includes various engaging activities:

Opening Celebration : A time for worship and introducing the day's theme.
Tribe Time : Small group discussions and activities to reinforce the Bible point.
Daniel’s Adventures : Interactive storytelling sessions where children meet Daniel and experience his journey.
Marketplace Shops : Hands-on crafts and cultural experiences reflecting ancient Babylon.
Palace Playground : Games designed to reinforce the day's lesson.
Closing Celebration : A wrap-up session with music and reflection on the day's teachings.

�� Music and Worship

Music plays a vital role in the VBS experience, with songs that align with each day's theme, such as:

“Through It All"
“Watching Over You”
“Stand Firm”
“Only a Prayer Away”

These songs are designed to be memorable and reinforce the lessons learned each day.

The Parish Pulse