While this year would be their 11th year of their Vacation Bible School, Justin and Rebekah Kline plan to host their 2nd annual Bless the Block on July 30 after a great turnout during last year’s parade and festivities.
Last year, Justin said the parade was formed out of necessity since they couldn’t host their typical VBS at their house. This year, due to concern of overcrowding, they are bringing the parade back to provide a glimpse of hope.
Another reason the Klines held the parade last year was to give people an outlet for the emotions they were feeling during the pandemic. Justin said last year several events that were traditions in the neighborhood were getting canceled, such as Black Expo events and the Dust Bowl.
“It is just our joy to love [the neighborhood] back for the way they have loved us and folded us into their great big family and just look for ways to serve them,” Rebekah said.
This year the parade runs through Baptown, and they plan to give different donations to the neighborhood. They are currently taking donations, which can include canned food and cleaning supplies.
While a lot of things for the parade are still being planned, one thing for sure is they want to honor the “Greatest of All Time” in the city. The “G.O.A.T. Float” this year will honor previous G.O.A.T.s Julius Maddox, Chad Morris and Travis Owsley, with the addition of Owensboro High School rising senior Gavin Wimsatt.
Evansville Christian rapper E2 is also set to perform on one of their mobile floats. At the end of the parade they will all congregate at 5th and Poplar — the usual spot for their VBS — to have Julius speak and film a live rap music video with E2.
“We have an incredible opportunity to serve the community to be a blessing and ultimately shine the light of Jesus, who is the life that’s spoken into us in John Chapter 1,” Justin said.
