Did you know that about 25% of all Southern Baptist baptisms each year can be attributed to Vacation Bible School? Often when we think about VBS we think about the week long event. VBS is about kids, youth and adults hearing how they can know Jesus in a personal way. Here are some ideas that you can use now to start planning for your VBS this summer.
- Have a VBS Sunday in February. One Indiana church had a VBS Sunday that included the pastor preaching on the importance of reaching children for Christ, the children sang "Yes to VBS!", and the VBS director had tables set up with sign-up sheets showing ways church members could be involved in VBS. She included a table for volunteers, donations and set building. By March the director had many of her volunteers, commitment for most of the donations and the men's group volunteered to build the train for last year's Boomerang Express!
- Plan for follow-up! Follow-up is one of the most important aspects of VBS and often we forget that we have to plan for it. We plan for the crafts, recreation and the snacks, but follow-up is the reason we do VBS. It is your opportunity to talk to the parents and invite them to visit your church or you may even have the opportunity to lead them to Christ. Ask for someone to organize volunteers from your Sunday School classes or small groups to begin preparing for following up on the families that will attend your VBS. This can include letter writing, home visitation and invitations to other church activities.
- Teach "Leading a Child to Christ" for VBS leaders. Many people don't know how or feel uncomfortable sharing their faith with children. Leading a Child to Christ is a DVD available from Lifeway that helps leaders and parents feel comfortable sharing their faith with children.
- Pray. Be specific and intentional as you pray for VBS. Ask your small groups or Sunday School classes to begin praying for the children who will attend, for the leaders, and for the church to see people of all ages saved.
- Attend an associational clinic located near you!
- You can find this article online at www.scbikids.blogspot.com
Some online VBS Resources
VBS blog www.lifewayvbs.wordpress.com
Facebook Lifeway VBS
Twitter @LifeWay VBS
Lifeway VBS Community – www.lifewayvbs.ning.com
