Congratulations! You are planning for VBS 2021!

If you follow the Good News Movement (@goodnews_movement) on social media you may have seen a video this past week of a school aged girl receiving news that she would be returning to in-person learning. Her tears of relief and joy were heartwarming and heartbreaking. Our kids NEED social interaction with other children and with adults. We are hard-wired by God for connection with people.

Can I just encourage you: whatever you must do to get children and families together this summer, do it! I understand that geographical location impacts what this will look. I am in Missouri where churches are filling up more and more each Sunday and people are regularly going out to eat. Dear friends of mine are in Massachusetts and they have not eaten in a restaurant or attended in-person church since March 2020.

Regardless of where you live, the need for social connection amongst kids is constant. How churches meet said needs will vary and that is ok!

The VBS programs that are available through Christianbook come with many helps on how to meet the need safely and successfully for family and student connection. Some of these helps are from our team and other helps are directly from the publishers.

Resources are available to help you plan for:

1. In-person VBS
2. Hybrid VBS (in-person and virtual)
3. Virtual or At Home VBS

There are so many great tools and resources in 2021 to come along aside VBS directors. Thank God for the good things coming your way!

As you decide which approach to take, allow me to offer 2 suggestions:

1. Decide to host VBS in 2021 – Go ahead and commit to something. Many schools in the country have successfully had in person learning. Schools that were remote only are opening up either to a hybrid model or full time. You can learn from schools or camps in your area on what protocols to take or wording to use when communicating with the community. Bottom line – you can do VBS this year!

2. Decide with vision – I hope this does not sound too harsh. Hear me out. Your volunteer team needs to hear vision, excitement, and commitment to meeting the real needs of families in your community. People like to get behind vision and passion. Don’t be surprised if a half-hearted enthusiasm for VBS is met with a half-hearted commitment from your volunteer team. Jump in to VBS with both feet! VBS is something we GET TO DO.

VBS leader: we believe in you! And we believe in the power and strength of God to see you through this year.

– Holly Trewern, VBS Product Editor at Christianbook

The post Decide to host VBS in 2021! appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

January is when we begin planning the year for children’s and family ministry outreach. Last year, this planning felt so ordinary and perhaps even boring – until it wasn’t. As we enter 2021, how do we plan our spring and summer events? How do we cross the bridge of uncertainty to make sure family ministry continues to reach students and parents?

First, remember the church’s mission has not changed since the life, death, and resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Evangelism and discipleship remain our great mandate. Because Jesus has guaranteed the success of The Great Commission, you can trust in the sufficiency of God in your portion of this work. The Sovereign Lord has placed you in this position for such a time as this. God has already given you the right abilities, the right people, and the right resources. Be assured that this is the right time – the kairos time – all pre-ordained by God.

Prayer:

Father, thank you for calling me to serve you and help build your Church. By faith, I believe that since you called me, you also equip me to do the work. Infuse me with fresh encouragement, new ideas, and wisdom to spread your great message of salvation and hope to this generation of children in the contextual challenges of 2021.

Second, plan the best you can following current local and state conditions.

Winter restrictions are likely to be more constraining than next summer but prepare for the ‘worst-case scenario’. If you live in a state with few COVID-19 restrictions (that do not require masks and social distancing), include a “Plan B” accommodating for social distancing needs. When a vaccine is administered, and conditions improve, you can always return to more familiar ways of running VBS. Until then, plan and stay flexible.

Prayer:

Father God, your plans for us have never changed. You have plans for our well-being, plans to give us a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11). Jesus, you are the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). While my circumstances may change, you have promised that your Kingdom will grow no matter what difficulties or opponents might come. Help me to plan well. Please lead me, guide me, strengthen me, and give me courage.

Third, don’t wait.

Start now to assemble your team of leaders and other volunteers. Ask new people to help by speaking with them individually. It’s a perfect year to bring in new ideas and try something different. Procrastination never helps, so start early. Do whatever you can now, including choosing your VBS theme, determining your budget, and forming your team.

Prayer: 

Jesus, this virus was no surprise to you. You have unique and specific plans for our church, our families, and the kids you bring to us. You also want to bless many in our church community by allowing them to serve you by serving others. Bring more volunteers with cheerful hearts that they may have the joy of using their skills and talents for your glory. Help us bond together in a spirit of unity, work well together, and solve problems together.

Fourth, keep your “joy factor” high.

My grandfather had an old saying, “You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.” We ‘catch’ more volunteers to help, and we ‘catch’ more souls for Christ when we have joy, hope, and a positive outlook. Thankfully, joy and hope are not contingent on our circumstances. Remember that the same power that lifted Jesus from the grave lives in you (Romans 8:11). Further, Jesus promised that even the gates of hell would not prevail against the work of the church. You are destined to THRIVE, not merely survive because God is on your side!

Prayer:

Lord, help me to see the joy in small victories. Open my eyes to see the little things that are going well to see more clearly how you are working for good in this church, in our ministry, and in my life as a leader. The joy of the Lord is my strength! I choose joy – today, tomorrow, and every day. I ask for your grace to help me live Philippians 4:8 in very practical ways.

Fifth, communicate clearly with your pastor and with families.

Schedule your event dates and let people know in advance. If you need to limit the number of students in attendance, perhaps you can reserve more time on the church calendar to accommodate one week for each age group rather than all ages together. Also, let families know that plans are subject to change depending upon future circumstances.

Prayer:

Lord, you are the Good Shepherd. You feed your flock, carry the lambs in your arms, and hold them close to your heart (Isaiah 40:11). Please grant me the grace to care well for your sheep no matter their age or stage in life.

Sixth, learn from local educators.

Teachers and school administrators have learned so much about handling COVID-19 and state-required restrictions, particularly for children. Ask them to educate you. Talk to the principal of a local Christian school or connect with public school teachers whom you know.

Prayer:

Father God, I need wisdom. Your Word states in James 1:5 that if I lack wisdom, I should ask you for it, and you promise to give it to me in abundance. So, I am asking. Lead me to people who can help me, who can provide me with wisdom for the practical parts of holding successful summer ministry while keeping children and volunteers healthy and safe. I ask this in faith, knowing that you hear me and will answer me (1 John 5:15).

Seventh, stay connected with families and children all year.

Send postcards and birthday cards, make a phone call, bring a single flower to each household, deliver Lent and Easter activity packages at doorsteps. A simple text lets people know you are thinking about them and praying for them. You might be surprised at how much it means to people to hear from you. You may also have the joy of knowing that the Holy Spirit prompted you to connect with someone precisely when they needed encouragement.

Prayer:

Lord, your love never stops! You never sleep nor slumber, and your love never ends (Psalm 121). I pray for the families in our community to know you deeply care for them and are always with them. Lead me, Holy Spirit, to encourage the right person at just the right time so that they will feel your compassion at work through me.

Finally, the power of the gospel, our prayers for healing and miraculous divine help, our faithful service as ambassadors of light and love in this world can all bring change to our communities. At this moment in history, many are overwhelmed with worry, fear, and burdens. Hearts are yearning for security, safety, and significance. Jesus still has all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). He still sits on His throne, and His plans for the children and families in your church will come to pass at such a time as this. Those whom He calls, He also equips!

Be encouraged, friends.

Maryl Darko
Senior Product Editor
Christianbook.com

The post Family Ministry Planning Tips for Another Uncertain Year appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Guest post by Katie Mason, Children’s Pastor at Abundant Life Church in Maryland.

In September of 2019, the staff at Abundant Life Church in Glen Burnie, MD gathered together to plan the year 2020. Little did we know all those plans would evaporate faster than water on the hot summer concrete. Like most of you, ALC Kids has had to adapt, change, and rewrite plans last minute to try to minister to kids in a helpful way during the chaos of coronavirus and quarantine. And then of course, there was the looming question of VBS. Do we cancel VBS? Try to have it in person? Do we move it online?

At first, we began to plan for an all virtual VBS, but no one was in love with the idea. Screen fatigue was real, and our kids were less engaged with our video calls each week. As the cases in Maryland went down, we thought about trying to have a modified in-person VBS, but none of us felt comfortable with the risk factors involved with the kids, volunteers, and older members of the congregation. And then a foghorn sounded across the misty cloud of 2020; what if we did both? We’d have the large group portion online in the morning. Then kids could meet in their small groups of ten or fewer outside at different times during the day. And so the hybrid of a virtual and in-person VBS was born.

By moving our large group worship services for preschool and elementary online, we are able to limit the amount of exposure our kids would have to others and limit their ability to spread Covid-19 to others should they unknowingly be carriers. Our kids are used to online worship services as we moved all of our ALC Kids worship services online in March to help limit the spread of the virus. Thanks to the digital age, we were able to worship and learn about the Bible together safely from a distance. Still, we knew our kids were desperate for some safe in-person interaction.

We knew that if we could manage to do at least part of our VBS in-person, we’d have greater interest from our kids as well as the kids in our area who didn’t have a church home. Yet, we knew that whatever we did had to be safe for everyone, which is why our small groups will be meeting outside in groups of ten or fewer in a tiered system that allows no more than two small groups on church grounds at a time. Additionally, we are offering an online small group option for children who are high-risk or live with people who are high-risk. Kids who choose this option will be able to pick up a box of supplies for their crafts and games. We want everyone to feel included.

According to the CDC, the main way the virus spreads is through prolonged person to person contact. By limiting the amount of people on church property at a given time, we vastly limit the ability for the virus to spread, but we are also able to provide kids a time to enjoy being with one another and their small group leaders. There is no way to eliminate all the risk, but we are doing our best to be wise and give kids hope and joy during this difficult time.

Throughout the entire planning process, my team and I have asked one question: How do we give kids hope this summer? It has often been a difficult question to answer, but it is one that we come back to time and time again. We believe that VBS provides a time of fun, joy, and learning that kids can take with them as they grow and learn. This year, our goal is to remind our kids that God is still good, and there is still hope and joy to be found, even in 2020.

Guest post by Katie Mason, Children’s Pastor at Abundant Life Church in Maryland.

Follow at @alclivemd on Instagram

The post Creative Solutions for VBS 2020 appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

As we navigate our way through the challenges of VBS 2020, let’s take a look at the long and successful history of VBS for a little inspiration…

1866

The first origins of Christian Bible education to children (that eventually grew into vacation Bible school) is traced back to Boston just after the Civil War by Wheaton University education Professor C.B. Eavey. (1)

1873

Early roots of VBS date to the 1870s, when the Methodist Episcopal Church offered summer Sunday school institutes to the general public near Lake Chautauqua, New York. In 1873, Bishop John H. Vincent proposed the movement should include educational and cultural programs, and soon other Christian groups across the country followed suit with their own summer retreats, many of them offering services for children. (2)

1877

Other reports indicate beginnings of a summertime Bible program for children took place in Montreal, Canada. (3)

1894

D.T. Miles, a public school teacher and wife of a Methodist minister, wanted more time to teach the Bible to students, thinking the school system failed to provide enough time. In response, she started a daily Bible school to teach children during the summer. She enrolled forty students and it lasted four weeks in duration. Children paid one dollar to attend and the American Bible Society provided Scriptures to those who did not have a copy. (4)

1898

Virginia Sinclair Hawes (often identified as “Mrs. Walker Aylett Hawes”), director of the children’s ministry at Epiphany Baptist Church in New York City began an “Everyday Bible School” for immigrant children. Her first location was a rented beer garden behind a saloon during the mornings (324 East 71st Street, NY, NY) and it lasted six weeks. (5)

Professor C. B. Eavy described the early days of VBS like this:

“The vacation church school was started to gather idle children into unused churches where unoccupied teachers might keep them busy in a wholesome way in a wholesome environment.” (6)

“These summer programs in the eastern part of the country reportedly lasted five weeks and included not only Bible    content but also worship, music, open-air games, “expressional activities” like sewing, weaving, basketry and hammock-making, plus talks on patriotism and hygiene.” (7)

1900

Howard R. Vaughan, a Congregationalist pastor in Elk Mound, Wisconsin began a shorter summer program for children in the western U.S. that was shorter in duration and focused primarily on Bible teaching. (8)

1901

Dr. Robert Boville of the Baptist Mission Society, became aware of Mrs. Hawes’ summer program and recommended it to other Baptist churches. Boville established a handful of summer schools which were taught by students at the Union Theological Seminary (NYC). During one summer, one thousand students were enrolled in five different schools. (9)

1907

After the program spread to other cities, including Philadelphia and Chicago, Boville established a national committee. (10)

1912

While not under the title of Vacation Bible School, Dr. Abraham L. Latham of the Third Presbyterian Church in Chester, Pennsylvania initiated a five-week, four hour per day summer Bible school in 1912 which at its peak had 650–700 students. This has been claimed to be the world’s first summer bible school. (11)

1920s

Vaughan’s approach inspired a 1920 teacher’s manual published by Abingdon Press, The Vacation Religious Day School. (12)

1922

Nationally, 5,000 summer Bible schools were established and most lasted five weeks long. Dr. Boville founded the World Association of Daily Vacation Bible School.

1923

Standard Publishing produced the very first printed VBS curriculum. Enough material was provided for a five-week course for three age levels (kindergarten, primary, and junior). (13)

1950’s

An estimated 60,000 vacation Bible schools existed, teaching approximately 5 million students, and including 500,000 volunteers. (14)

1997

Estimated 80% of churches offer Vacation Bible School in the contemporary format (According to a Barna group report in 2013)(15)

2013

An estimated 67% of churches offer Vacation Bible School (16)

2017

According to one VBS publisher alone:

■ 21,376 churches reported a VBS

■ 2,494,059 people enrolled in VBS

■ 65,301 salvation decisions from VBS

■ 835 decisions made for vocational ministry at VBS

■ 160,926 prospects discovered through VBS

■ $7,012,010 given to missions during VBS

■ 78% of churches use VBS as their largest outreach to unchurched kids in a given year (17)

2020

Another year of lives changed for life and eternity! For about 140 years, God has worked through VBS to impact the eternal destination of children all over the world. Much has changed. Much more remains the same.

References:

1. “A Brief History of Vacation Bible School”, Chris Gehrtz, June 20, 2017. Retrieved May 21, 2020. https://www.patheos.com/blogs/anxiousbench/2017/06/vbs-brief-history/
2. “From Beer to Bibles to VBS”, Steven Gertz, June 2, 2003. Retrieved May 21, 2020. https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2003/juneweb-only/6-30-43.0.html
3. Gerhtz
4. Gerhtz
5. Gerhtz – also http://www.nycago.org/Organs/NYC/html/EpiphanyBapt.html Retrieved May 21, 2020.
6. “In the beginning: The connection between a 19th century beer garden, VBS”, Jennifer Cohron. July 21, 2017. Retrieved May 21, 2020. http://mountaineagle.com/stories/in-the-beginning-the-connection-between-a-19th-century-beer-garden-vbs,12315
7. Gerhtz
8. Gerhtz
9. https://happytoknowhim.wordpress.com/2007/08/18/the-history-of-vacation-bible-school/ Retrieved May 26, 2020
10. Gerhtz
11. http://www.oldchesterpa.com/churches/thirdpres_bible_school.htm Retrieved May 26, 2020
12. https://happytoknowhim.wordpress.com/2007/08/18/the-history-of-vacation-bible-school/ Retrieved May 26, 2020
13. “The Legend of VBS” by Mike. January 13, 2013. Retrieved May 26, 2020. https://lookoutmag.com/2013/the-legend-of-vbs/
14. Gerhtz
15. “Why Fewer Churches Offer Vacation Bible School”, Abby Stocker. July 21, 2013. Retrieved May 21, 2020. https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2013/july/barna-why-fewer-churches-offer-vacation-bible-school-vbs.html
16. “The State of Vacation Bible School” Research Releases in Family & Kids, July 9, 2013. Retrieved May 26, 2020 https://www.barna.com/research/the-state-of-vacation-bible-school/
17. “It’s Worth It Presentation Outline” Lifeway Publishing, adapted from It’s Worth It: Uncovering How One week Can Transform Your Church, Landry Homes, Lifeway Publishing, 2019.

The post History of VBS: Summers with Jesus appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Thankfully, in recent weeks we have passed the initial shock and adjustments to the Covid-19 pandemic. We now have more ability to move forward to normal. Depending on where you live, restrictions on summer activities will look and feel different. As we move forward together, be encouraged!

VBS may look different but it does not have to be destroyed. VBS may be delayed but gospel presentations will not be denied. Now, more than ever children and families need the hope of the gospel. This could be the best summer ever!

Here are 10 tips to help you navigate VBS Planning this year…

1. Plan for a Late Summer VBS

This gives you time to figure things out. Our normal VBS planning schedule was interrupted this spring, but now we can get back on track. For now, it’s good to set the date and ask volunteers to put the date on their calendars.

2. Pull Together Your Team Leaders

You have a great group of people you’ve worked with in previous years. Invite them back on a conference call and seek their suggestions about who else can help this year.

3. Pursue New People to Help

With more adults, college students, and teens not able to work this summer there might be an abundance of extra volunteers available who will welcome the opportunity to use their time in meaningful ways.

4. Position Your VBS for Online and At-Home

VBS publishers have made adaptations and given practical instructions for how you can do this. It is possible and easier than you think! Find out here: Planning for VBS During Covid-19

5. Pick Young People to Help

If you need help figuring out how to be successful over social media and digital events, invite a responsible college student or young adult to help. Ask their advice, input, and ideas and trust them to help the church connect with families and children through VBS.

6. Partner with Other Churches

Smaller-size churches may benefit by combining in the Spirit of unity for the purpose of the mission. Use the ‘multiplier’ effect of partnership to stretch budgets, engage more volunteers, and brainstorm creative ideas.

7. Preserve the Mission

Our mission remains the same while the method of delivery might change. We are on a mission to love children, point them to Jesus, and help them grow to be life-long disciples of Christ. Keep the relational aspect of VBS in the front of your planning.

8. Purpose to Have Fun

VBS can be summarized in three words: faith, fun and friends (family of believers). Build in some fun surprises in your video presentations just like you would do in a regular large group VBS assembly. Connect kids with their favorite group leaders and friends in video conferences.

9. Photograph the Moment

We are living in a historical moment! Take lots of pictures and document this season so that generations to come can remember all God did

10. Pray, Believe God, & Persist with Eternity in Mind

Remember that God is still working in our different circumstances and His Word will not return void. Our current circumstances are no surprise to God. They are not a setback, but rather present new opportunities last year did not offer us. More people are attending church online and this means more families may attend VBS online. Persist forward with joy and with eternity in mind.

God’s strength, wisdom, peace and creativity be with you,

Maryl
Former VBS Director
Senior Editor, Christianbook.com

The post 10 Easy “P”s of Planning VBS 2020 appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Dear VBS Director in Uncertain Times,

As the old hymn reminds us, “On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand. “ We hold fast to Christ and we strive to be ambassadors of Jesus in the midst of uncertainty and rapid change. As a VBS Director, you know that VBS is the perfect vehicle to do this. Not only does VBS unite people of all ages, it is one of the most exciting ways to share Christ with children and families. This summer people will have a great desire to gather and reconnect with friends, giving the church a wide open door to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel. This could truly be the best year ever to invite kids, teens, and adults to volunteer and participate in VBS. However, VBS planning may look different this year and you may be wondering how you can adapt to the current situation.

Here are some helpful suggestions.

What do you already know?

• VBS fulfills the Great Commission by sharing the Gospel.
• VBS is an important outreach opportunity to your community.
• Parents search for healthy activities for their children during the summer time.
• People of all ages will be excited to gather again whenever that time comes.

What schedule adjustments can you make?

• Possibly postpone the decision to have VBS. Communicate online when a decision will be announced.
• Publicize registration if your VBS is currently scheduled for late June, July or August.
• Reschedule VBS from early summer to late summer and advertise it as a “Back to School Bash”.
• Schedule VBS during Labor Day Weekend and call it “September Surprise” or “Summer Do-Over”.
• Plan for an evening VBS that can still happen after school begins.
• Make VBS a Fall Family Festival during Columbus Day weekend.

What are some alternative ideas?

• Use VBS materials for a series of “Parents Night Out” on Fridays for a month after churches reopen.
• Use VBS materials for a series of Sunday afternoon events after churches reopen.
• Conduct VBS online.
  • Ask high school or college students to help you maximize digital and social media options.
  • Try VBS “take-out”. Create family packages with student activity books, craft supplies and give-aways for parking lot pick-ups or home drop-offs.
  • Run large group sessions using video conferencing or other live streaming platforms.
  • Run small groups using video conferencing, or provide instructions for parents to teach the Bible lesson at home.
  • Check back with us for updates, as many publishers are considering digital-friendly options that we can make available to you.

What are some budget-friendly options?

• Use your VBS Director’s Guide to adjust a 5 day VBS to 3 days.
• Purchase a Two-Day Weekend VBS, or another economical VBS .
• Create an online shopping registry and ask for donations.
• Ask families to save items for you as they do spring cleaning.
• Ask creative friends and family to begin working on decorations right now. Encourage kids at home to help!
• Plan a craft that utilizes empty toilet paper rolls and ask families to save them. J
• Revise your budget with our Budget Worksheets.

At Christianbook, we are more committed than ever to provide the resources you need to keep moving forward. We’re here to help you succeed in being the church – with or without a building. We’d love to hear your suggestions too. Please share your ideas on our Facebook Kid Min page, here.

Finally, if you need a little encouragement about the impact of VBS on lives may I suggest the book It’s Worth It: Uncovering How One week Can Transform Your Church. This is a Kairos time in history. Together, we can make a difference for the Kingdom of God.

Blessings,

Maryl

VBS Editor at Christianbook

The post Dear VBS Director in Uncertain Times appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

There are many qualities you might look for in your volunteer team or staff. Qualities such as their love for Christ, commitment, loyalty, fun, team player, creative, problem solver, or willing. But one quality often left off that list is ‘appreciated’. A quality you as the pastor or leader have direct impact on.

Ask yourself this question honestly: does your team feel appreciated? An under-appreciated team member may become disgruntled, feel their work does not matter, may underperform or give just barely enough. They may even be bitter or difficult to work with and ultimately, they may not stick around for long.

On the other side of the coin, an appreciated team member, a team member that feels valued and feels their contribution is noticed, understands they are part of a bigger picture. Such team members are not only a joy to serve with, but their service has a greater impact.

So, what are some ways you can show your deep appreciation for your team? I’m happy you asked. I’ve got a few ideas for you to take and use in your own church. Or perhaps my thoughts will spark a different idea in your mind! That’s one of the beautiful things about collaborating on ideas… it gets creative juices flowing for everyone!

Tip #1 Write thank you notes 

Download FREE Thank You Postcards Here! 

Ok, yes I know. Simple. A no brainer idea. But in a world that is mostly digital and fast paced, receiving a thank you note in the mail with a handwritten message is powerful. Set out time in your calendar to once a month or once a quarter write out thank you cards to members of your team appreciating them for their service. Highlight something specific you’ve seen them do or a character attribute you see in them to make it extra personal.

Tip #2 Take advantage of holidays on the calendar

New Year, Valentine’s Day, Easter, 4^th of July, first day of fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are some of the times in the year when you can use the holiday to say thank-you. Deposit seeds of appreciation all throughout the year to your VBS team. Some ideas:

1. Valentine’s Day: ‘Thank you for making this team great!’ – include a small treat.
2. Easter: A chocolate bunny with a note that says, ‘there is no bunny like you on this team – thanks for serving during Easter!’
3. 4^th of July: A sparkler or glow in the dark necklace with a note that says, ‘you make our team sparkle!’

You get the idea – have fun – search out Pinterest and creatively say thank you to your team. You’ll communicate they are valued and make them smile.

Tip #3 Volunteer Appreciation Meal

This can be cheap or elaborate depending on your budget. When I was a children’s pastor we did a ‘breakfast for dinner’ thank you dinner with our team. It was a blast. We had big griddles for pancakes, eggs, & bacon – a waffle station, fruit, coffee and juice. During the meal we played games, laughed and got to know each other more. As our time concluded I publicly honored each team member by sharing a quality they possessed and thanking them. For months after, my team told me how much it meant to them to be publicly affirmed. This was a cheap event to pull off that had a big impact.

Tip #4 Create rhythms in their service to your team

I fully believe ministry life is less about balance and more about rhythms. There are seasons that are just flat out busy and there is no way around it. Easter, VBS season, Christmas are times when we give a lot and we ask our teams to give a lot. After busy seasons, work in a season of rest. This is good for your personal life and it’s good for the life of the church. There is this pressure to keep things rolling at a fast pace ALL the time but it’s just not sustainable. Build rhythms of rest into your culture. That might look like scheduling time off for your regular volunteers

Tip #5 Care about who your team members are as people… more than what they do for you! 

This is a really important way to appreciate your team. Take the time to develop your team. Invest in their character, in their personal walk with the Lord, in their family. This takes time on your part but the pay-off is worth it. The goal should never just be to get volunteers to carry out your vision. The goal should be to carry out the vision of the church while simultaneously developing those on your team. It’s not either or but it’s both.

Tip #6 Volunteer of Month 

Utilize social media or your team e-newsletter to highlight a volunteer of the month or week, depending on the size of your volunteer team. When you highlight them, share their picture, how long they have served, a specific thing you appreciate about them, and then maybe a fun fact. Two things are accomplished here: your team member feels valued AND other volunteers learn a little about their peer.

Good luck as you create a culture of appreciation with your team! Be assured, the work is worth it! Appreciated people are some of the best people to work with.

– Article by Holly Trewern, Church & VBS Product Editor at Christianbook 

The post VBS Volunteer Appreciation Tips appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

As VBS volunteers we know there is nothing more valuable than advice from a seasoned VBS expert! That’s why we asked two VBS Directors – one from Missouri and one from Arizona – a few questions about VBS.

Read on below to hear their thoughts on everything from top decorating tips to how they recruit men to assist in running a stellar program!

Erika Solidum
Director of KidLife Ministries at LifePoint Church in Ozark, Missouri

Q: What VBS could you never get out of your head?

A: Sin Messed Everything Up in a LifeWay Kids VBS a few years ago. The rap style and catchy lyrics have us singing it and using it year after year as an example. I only have to start the phrase, “but a sneaky little snake in a sneaky little way…” and everyone can finish it.

Q: What is your top decorating tip?

A: Let your church members use their giftings! If you can, put together a team and give them their budget. Let them get creative and you can help resource them. Delegating and letting others lead different areas of your VBS not only helps you, but it allows them to serve and lead. God uses this to grow them in discipleship and it serves the mission of VBS.

Q: What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned directing VBS?

A: Don’t compare. We live in an area where countless churches might even host the same VBS theme and curriculum. Do what you do well and let God use it how He has planned. He has gifted your people to lead at your church and He will bring exactly who He wants to hear about His love through your ministry.

Q: Should I charge an admission fee for VBS? Why or why not?

A: We do not charge admission. We build the cost of VBS in our budget and I am a firm believer in this. Yes, you will have families who hop from VBS to VBS because it is free ‘childcare.’ But, as with any missional outreach event, we want children to come and we want them to hear about Jesus. This may mean that you get creative to save money in areas to meet budget, but to love people in this way is worth it.

Q: What are the benefits of running an evening VBS?

A: Our church (even before my time as director) has always run an evening VBS. In the beginning, it was because of size and the number of servants needed. Now, it is because we want everyone to have an opportunity to serve. Men come straight from work, throw on their VBS t-shirt, and lead kids. Empty nester couples who still work are able to jump in and serve. Yes, there will be evening conflicts during the summer months. But, overall, parents can bring children without leaving work and more individuals in our church can serve. We love having our evenings together!

Q: How do you get men involved?

A: A couple of years ago, we started doing an elective type activity station model. This means that instead of the traditional recreation and craft time, we allow kids to pick an activity they are interested in for during that time. Men who would have never led a recreation game will come and teach kids about archery or survival skills (used during a safari theme week). It is always a blessing to see these guys love on kids using whatever they are passionate about while they teach them about Jesus along the way.

Q: How do you build up your volunteer team?

A: After directing VBS for a few years and seeing God grow our church, we decided to do a VBS leadership team. This team meets from the beginning and each person is leading a different area of the week. We build up this team by our focused time together, food, and fellowship. They in turn build teams of servants who fulfill the roles in each of their areas to make the week a success (snack team, Bible teaching team, crew leader team, etc). They carry this on and encourage their teams through little notes, candy bars, and treats during the week itself. We love our servant volunteers and we love seeing some of them become VBS leaders after a couple years!

Giselle Ryan
Children’s Pastor at Radiant Church in Surprise, Arizona

Q: What is your secret weapon for surviving VBS?

A: Laughter! You have to have a good laugh every now and then. It helps to put things into perspective.

Q: What is your top decorating tip?

A: Start early. You can never start too early when it comes to decorations.

Q: What is your best marketing strategy to date?

A: Make a cool video explaining how great this event is and play it on Sunday mornings in the adult service leading up to it. It will get the word out in your congregation so they can invite people and it will get you volunteers to serve!

What is your top tip for VBS directors? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

The post VBS Advice from Two Experts appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

How do I build a fantastic budget for my Vacation Bible School? If you’re leading a VBS, you can really start planning until you know what funds will be available to you.

You can check out our post on planning VBS on a budget here. Raising funds for many is challenging.

How do I ask? Who do I ask? I’ve seen many a people get shy when it comes to asking. Here are 8 tips to help you with the ‘how’…

Believe in What You’re Asking For

Do you believe in kid’s ministry? Do you believe it is important? Do you believe Vacation Bible School will change the lives of kids and families? I hope the answer is a resounding, YES! If you wholeheartedly believe in the cause you are asking for, that passion will shine through when you are asking for help. Write out all the reasons why VBS is important, why you believe in it, the impact the program has had, and why you are excited to be a part of it. Your belief in the program will be felt by those you are talking to.

Join our community of KidMin volunteers over on our Facebook Group ‘Everything KidMin’! 

When Possible, Ask Out Of Relationship

Many good things flow out of relationships. We don’t build relationships so we can get things – but a perk to already being in a relationship with an individual or business is that you have established credibility and rapport with them. Network throughout the year with people and businesses in your community because you care. As you care about others, usually they care about your.

Ask for Partners Not Just Money

When you ask people to financially invest in your ministry, appeal to them as partners. ‘We are asking you to partner with us… because you give, you are part of the success of this program… with your partnership we can feed XX kids breakfast before VBS etc’. Connect the donor to your why and allow them to share in the success of what you are building.

Set a Goal and Share Your Goal

This is a big one! Set a goal and share your goal. How much do you need to raise? Don’t be afraid to share that number with your team and your potential partners. Sometimes people shy away from sharing a goal because, what is we don’t meet it? Don’t ket fear keep you from sharing your goal. Something powerful happens when we put words to our vision and openly share it – you never know who will catch your vision and partner with you.

Be Direct

Once your share your vision, your goals and desire to become partners, be direct in ‘the ask’. Don’t beat around the bush and hint at your request. Come out and directly ask for what you need. ‘We need to raise $250, would you partner with us by giving to the ministry of Church?‘. Or if you’re looking for product donation, ‘We would like to feed breakfast to 50 kids Monday through Friday, could you supply us with 100 doughnuts one day of the week?’

Assume Good… But Be Prepared For a ‘No’

Assume that people and businesses want to work with you. Assume they want to partner and want to give. That assumption will influence your demeanor when you make your presentation. Assume good, but be prepared for no. Don’t take rejection personally. Practice how you’ll respond if no is the answer you receive. You can say something like, ‘I understand. Thank you so much for being generous with your time and hearing me today. I look forward to continuing our relationship in the weeks/months to come.’

Thank You. Gracias. Obrigado. Je Vous Remercie.

Say ‘thank you’ many different ways. Thank you’s matter. A thank you builds on the relationship beyond the gift given. Mail a thank you note right away and then also follow up after your event with a thank you. Because you are working on a partnership, connect your partners to the success of the program. Give them stories and stats they can be proud of. Use phrases like, ‘because you gave, we accomplished…’ or ‘your generosity meant 75 kids ate breakfast each morning…’ or ‘little Jonny was thrilled each day to take his craft home to his family. Your giving made this possible’. 

Will Your Partner Donations Be A Tax Deduction?

Know the answer to this question before it is asked by a potential giver.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Use our FREE resources to help you build your budget. We have sample budget pages, sample fundraising request letters and sample fundraising thank you letters.

Now that you are a bit more confident in how you will ask, what about who? Who should you ask if you’re looking for donations for your VBS? Pray about who to ask and then start with who you know. As stated earlier, many good things flow from relationships, personal and professional. Many businesses want to give a certain dollar amount each year to non-profits or charitable organizations.

If you’re looking for product donation, obviously you need to look for businesses that have the product you want. I’ve heard of local grocery stores giving gift cards to their grocery store, bakeries donating day old baked goods, and craft stores donating inventory they haven’t sold and they are getting ready to pitch. Are there individuals in your community that believe in the next generation that would be thrilled to give back with a monetary contribution?

Good luck and don’t forget, Philippians 4:19 – God gives everything we need. Pray about the need. Ask for help. Work hard. And trust that God is supplying for what you need this season. 

The post How to Ask for VBS Donations appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Guest Post by Giselle Ryan, Children’s Pastor at Radiant Church – Surprise, Arizona

There’s nothing like a couple of kids and a week of VBS. Something magical happens when time is set aside to creatively engage kids of all ages, pointing them to the story of Jesus. I’ve seen nothing but good things come out of doing VBS. Not only are kids impacted but parents see the effects. Conversations are sparked in the home centered on Jesus. Curiosity is created in kids to ask questions regarding faith and how it relates to themselves. The wonderful volunteers that help to run the show are as well impacted by being a part. They get to be in the discussions and work to form relationships with the kids. It is so satisfying for volunteers to teach kids about their Creator and have a blast while doing it.

When I first helped to direct a VBS I was rather overwhelmed. There is so much work involved in accomplishing a big feat such as VBS. From creating the coolest games that engage kids to preparing the snacks for each day to coordinating with every volunteer making sure they know what they’re doing, VBS is quite the task to take on. Amid getting everything accomplished it’s easy to get lost in the details and the deadlines and forget the reason why you started it all in the first place. The countless hours put in at the church and with the help of many volunteers, we were able to complete it all in time.

Need help selecting your VBS? Click here to discover FREE resources and helpful guides!

Once the first day started, I quickly remembered all the hard work was for a purpose. The excitement in the kids mixed with all the activities we plan for them and the incredible truth we get to teach is magnetic. By the last day I was filled with a mixture of exhaustion and utter fulfillment giving all I had to this special week. To hear the feedback from volunteers on how impactful this one week had on them was rewarding. The volunteers made special connections with kids, other leaders, and saw the importance of investing in the next generation.

At our church we call VBS Kids Week and we look at it almost like a summer camp experience without having the kids overnight. We get the kids for the first half of the day and by noon they are ready to be picked up. We have different themes for each day so everyone can dress up like crazy hair day. The last day is always water day, a day everyone looks forward to. We play all the games outside and the kids get soaked. It’s a day full of sunscreen, snow cones, and laughter.

I love to create exciting moments for kids and then tie it all back to Jesus. When you love on kids, they’ll listen to what you have to say. It’s through relationship where transformation takes place. And that’s why I love VBS because it helps to create genuine relationships for kids. Most importantly their relationship with God is better understood and then they make connections with others which gives them someone to further their growth in faith with.

I can’t wait to see what this year’s VBS has in store.

Guest Post by Giselle Ryan, Children’s Pastor at Radiant Church – Surprise, Arizona

The post Why I love directing VBS appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.