What is VBS?
If you grew up in the church, especially a Baptist Church, you have probably either heard of or have been a part of a Vacation Bible School (VBS). Each summer, churches around America (and the world!) choose one week to host local kids on their campus for Bible teaching, drama, games, crafts, mission stories, snacks and lots of fun! We are one of those churches.
The last week of June has traditionally been our VBS week at Swift Creek. Curriculum is chosen before the beginning of the New Year and recruiting takes place beginning in January. Over 125 volunteers are trained in May and registrations begin to roll in after Mother’s Day. Each year our program hosts over 330 kids coming to hear the gospel message while enjoying high energy activities.
VBS at Swift Creek!
The fun begins on Monday, June 25th, at 9am. VBS kicks off with an elementary Worship Rally where kids learn new themed songs, hear a story that prepares them for the Bible lesson of the day, are challenged to participate in a service project, and have plenty of time singing and seeing which group can cheer the loudest. This year will be no different, as our theme is “Game On! Gearing up for life’s big game.” We hope the sports theme will encourage kids to “Gear Up, Get Ready and Get in the Game!” As the kids rotate through various activities, relationships are formed, conversations are had and most importantly, the gospel is shared.
Why it’s important
My favorite part of VBS is Thursday morning during mission’s time. During this time, the gospel is clearly presented to each class. Children are offered a chance to talk one-on-one with their group leader, ask questions and make a decision, if God lays it on their heart. Sweet conversations are had and lives are changed. I remember sitting down with Emilee last year and sharing the complete gospel. She understood every word. She prayed her own prayer, gave me a hug and has said hi to me every Sunday morning for the past year. Last fall she was baptized and my heart overflowed. It is such a joy to be a part of helping a child make the biggest decision of her life.
Please, pray for our VBS team this year. Pray that lives will be changed, that leaders will connect with their students and that the gospel message will be understood by many. We have been given the chance to reach families in our community through this program at our church. We need to make sure we don’t miss this great opportunity.