The Church of Christ at Canal Heights is at work preparing for its annual vacation bible school.

“We started in January,” said Justin Paschall, minister of the congregation. “Then, as far as the building goes, people decorating their rooms and the auditorium, that’s been ongoing for probably three weeks now.”

This year’s VBS carries the theme of “The Great Rodeo Roundup.”

Paschall said the selection of the theme was a decision made by the VBS teachers.

“This year, I grabbed some materials I liked that were sound,” Paschall said. “I put it to the folks who would be teaching the classes and allowed them to vote on what they like best.”

The teachers’ collective vote will have those attending the week-long event learning about the parables of Christ.

“One of them is the parable of the talents, and it really stresses to children that God expects us to use what we have to glorify Him,” Paschall said. “Another lesson is the salt and light and looking at what kind of influence we can have.”

Other lessons will consist of the unmerciful servant, the prodigal son and the parable of the sower.

In addition to the Bible class lessons, students will enjoy puppet shows, crafts, singing, games and refreshments.

While the VBS is designed to provide enrichment to students, Paschall said the event is mutually beneficial to members of the congregation as well.

“VBS really serves two purposes. First and foremost, it introduces children to more about God and more about Jesus,” Paschall said. “And second, it gives members of the congregation a chance to influence children and really put their Christianity into action.”

The event is set to take place from Monday, June 22, until Friday, June 26, and is scheduled to run from 9 to 11:30 a.m. each day. Paschall said transportation will be available to those who need it.