Children running together, creating kites or cross necklaces, and high-pitched voices singing about Jesus almost seems like a distant memory. Oh, how we long to hear those sounds and see those smiling faces learning about their Savior! You may be feeling that hosting VBS is an uphill climb this year, but don't give up! Your church can find ways to share the joys of VBS and still respect the ongoing safety precautions associated with the pandemic.
Encouraging Social Interactions
It’s no surprise that kids and adults alike have felt isolated over the past year. Whether it’s an isolation from family and loved ones, friends, or even people in general, there has been something missing— interaction with other human beings (not saying pets aren’t great company 😉). Hosting VBS at your church, in-person or even virtually, is a great way for kids to reconnect with one another, grow friendships, or create new ones. What is even better about VBS versus other social activities is that connection between kids and their Savior. Sharing God with friends and loved ones creates stronger bonds together and with our Savior.
Connecting Kids to God's Word
The events over the past year forced churches worldwide to shift the way they worshiped, held Sunday School classes, and even engaged in outreach. With this shift in spiritual offerings and the different comfort levels of individuals, many churches have seen a decline in in-person attendance. With this knowledge, it is imperative to reach out to families and invite them back into the Church. VBS is an easy way to invite families back into your doors to connect them with the saving message of the Gospel.
VBS also emphasizes the importance of spending time in God's Word. Some children who attend VBS may not have parents or guardians who pray regularly or attend worship services weekly. Showing children, through VBS, the importance of being in God’s Word regularly can help them grow spiritually and learn more about God.
Guiding Kids through Hard Emotions
Many people have felt some form of emotional strain during the past year, whether from being home 24/7, not seeing friends, watching family members get sick, or just listening to the news. It’s been overwhelming for adults, so it’s easy to understand why kids may be overwhelmed as well.
After this difficult year, kids may be asking, “Where is God?” or “What is He doing?” VBS helps point children back to God’s Word and remind them that He is always with them and always faithful, even in the hard times. Daily Bible verses to memorize, stories of God showing up for His people, and prayers of thanksgiving can go a long way to help nurture children and their emotional well-being.
Whether your church hosts VBS in-person or online, your volunteers and your congregation will be playing a huge role in positively affecting children and their families after a challenging year. More importantly, you’ll be able to spread the Gospel of Christ and nurture seeds of faith in each child who attends VBS.
Happy VBS planning!
Find all the materials to host a VBS in-person, virtually, or somewhere in between.
