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What is Vacation Bible School?

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a fun-filled program that church offer, usually during the summer months, to connect with the children and families in our community.

 

 

Brief History:

 

Vacation Bible School began in the 1890s. A New York doctor’s wife wanted to find a way to keep children off the streets in the summertime, and so she rented a large beer hall in the East Side in order to conduct what she called “Everyday Bible School.” Her idea expanded, and eventually the New York City Baptist Mission Society established several of these Bible schools around the city.

A man named Robert G. Boville, formerly of the Baptist Mission Society, was key in the program’s expansion to other cities around the country. By 1907, he had established a national committee for Vacation Bible Schools.

Today, Vacation Bible School is a popular summer activity for many Christians. Generally Vacation Bible School runs for a week, and each program has its own theme (medieval castles, water parks, the Old West, etc.) that children can explore.

 

Russian Baptist Church of West Sacramento began offering VBS program in Summer 2013.  Curriculum from the Group publishing was used to guide and run the VBS program.
 

 

Vacation Bible School Teachers:

 

Teachers at VBS are church staff as well as church members volunteering their time. Many of the church members helping out with Vacation Bible School are parents too.

 

A typical day at Vacation Bible School may include:

 

  • Prayer

  • Bible stories

  • Arts and crafts

  • Games 

  • Songs

  • Snack breaks

  • Team lessons

  • Character-building activities

 

 

Age Range:

 

Young children age six to nine would benefit the most from Vacation Bible School.

Benefits:

 

  • Children learn about Christianity through fun, age-appropriate activities.

  • Life lessons help every child learn what is good and how to be a friend to others.

  • Perfect for younger children to get a feel for camp without having to go away overnight.

  • Kids meet new friends who share their beliefs.

  • You don't have to be a church member to attend VBS.

 

 

Costs:

 

Vacation Bible School program is FREE. However, we are asking for donations towards arts and crafts material, snacks, drinks, paint and brushes… Please contact the VBS coordinator to find out what you can help with.

 

 

Volunteering for Vacation Bible School:

 

Volunteers are always welcome, even up to the day VBS begins.

You can help with snacks, crafts, registration, setting up, cleaning up, storytelling, coordinating other volunteers, and more! If you prefer a hands-off approach, churches also ask for donations of household items, such as used toilet paper rolls or popsicle sticks, for some of their crafts or decorations. Call your local church to find out what their needs are so you can help with VBS.

 

 

 

 

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