Boys Brigade wound up the year June 5th with a pinewood derby.  The track was set up in the Adult Wing rooms E/F.  The smell of gas, oil, and burning rubber permeated the room … o.k.—that’s going too far.  But there was plenty of excitement among the 14 boys (Kindergarten to 1st grade, and 2nd to 5th grade) and rangers as they participated in the races. 

Chief Ranger David Mills reported that the boys and their rangers had a great year together.  “After not working with kids for quite a few years, it took some getting used to, but we got up to speed, especially with help from Children’s Ministry leaders Sandy Stanard and Sabina Robbins.”  In addition to preparing and executing the pinewood derby, other great activities of the year included  kick ball, dodge ball, squat racing, tug-a-war, tower building, bottle rockets, camp fire safety, and lots more. 

The boys enjoyed wearing their uniforms to Boys Brigade night — it’s rumored that some slept in them at home.  Along with the disciplines of dress, the boys saw modeled and then experienced line-up, pledge allegiance to the flag and a chance to share requests for prayer.  After the requests were shared, the rangers prayed with the boys, and gave opportunity for the boys to pray for each other, even if just three or four words.  They also discussed a theme verse, which many of the boys memorized during the week.  According to David, “It was so fulfilling to see the boys grow over the year in their willingness and ability to pray.  I could have used some of this modeling when I was a boy.”

Thanks to all who helped in the program.  In addition to David Mills, the other rangers were Rick Gladu, Adam Barron, Fred Palmer, Bob Clarey, Herb Wells, Dave Armour, and Bob Williamson, as well as a few others who helped earlier in the year, and some involved fathers.  Chief Mills added, “We’ll be sorry to lose our 5th graders, but we’re looking forward to another great year starting in the fall.”