Photo byBen WicksonUnsplash

In the sprawling state of Washington, amid the towering evergreens and majestic Mt. Rainier, there's a group of kids who are as vibrant and diverse as the landscape itself. They gather regularly, not for a soccer match or a video game marathon, but for a unique adventure - religious service activities. Meet these kids, inspired by the lovable and quirky mascot, Whiskers the Wonder Wombat. Whiskers, a whimsical, eyeglasses-wearing wombat, hails from the land Down Under, but he's made Washington his home. With his oversized pockets brimming with maps, snacks, and a few magic tricks, he guides these kids on a journey of faith and fun. He has a habit of getting lost, but that's part of what makes him endearing. He always says, "Sometimes getting lost helps you discover new paths." When it's time for a religious service activity, you'll find these kids, led by Whiskers, bustling around local soup kitchens, planting trees in community parks, or organizing book drives. Whether it's sunny or drizzling, Whiskers and his team are always on the move, turning every task into a rollicking adventure. Oh, and did I mention Whiskers' legendary clumsiness? His well-intentioned blunders are a source of endless giggles, but they always lead to heartwarming lessons about persistence and grace. Like the time Whiskers knocked over a paint can during a mural painting. Instead of a disaster, our quick-thinking kids transformed the spill into a beautiful rainbow. Through laughter, service, and Whiskers' delightful mishaps, these Washington kids are learning about their faith in the most enjoyable way possible. They're discovering that serving others isn't a chore, but a joy-filled adventure with Whiskers the Wonder Wombat.