Grace Episcopal VBS Ends With Barnyard Visitors

Grace Episcopal Church of Paducah hosted a mid-week vacation bible school for youngsters three years old through 4th grade.

This year, the VBS program was based on Episcopal Relief and Development's “Abundant Life” curriculum. The “Abundant Life” Vacation Bible School focused on the gifts of seeds, water, and animals.

Thursday afternoon, parents and guests were invited to join their children for the arrival of the "Barnyard Buddies" traveling petting zoo. Barnyard Buddies, a work of love, is from Boaz Kentucky.

Cindi Cornwell, owner of Barnyard Buddies, has over 42 animals that are available for the traveling petting zoo. Her 32-year-old son, Chris Clark, accompanied her during their stop at Grace Church. He helps with the traveling petting zoo by setting up the area and making sure the children get plenty of food to feed the animals.

Not only do children get to feed the animals and learn about them, they also get a lesson on bicycle safety. Cindi Cornwell shared the story of her son, Chad Clark,  who died 25 years ago at the young age of eight. He was riding his bike too close to the road and was hit by a passing car. Cindi told the VBS youngsters how unique they are and how they are impossible to replace. She expressed how important it was for everyone to wear a bicycle helmet and exercise extreme caution when riding.

Some of the animals featured during today's event include: "Lauren" the Zebu calf, "Rocky" the donkey and "Rascal" the miniature horse.

The Barnyard Buddies traveling petting zoo is available for any event, corporate or private.