Evangelical Free Church

 

Luke 18: 16 – But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

  

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VBS

 

What is VBS?

Vacation Bible School (or VBS) can unofficially trace its roots as far back as the 1870s when a church in New York state decided to hold a summer Sunday school institute. Other Christian groups across the country followed suit with their own summer retreats, many of them offering services for children. Vacation Bible School as we know it today got its start more than 20 years later.

 

Today Vacation Bible Schools are typically offered by churches once every summer, starting usually on a Monday and finishing up that Friday. They center around a single theme, involve kids in games and crafts, and—most importantly—seek to teach biblical truths. Christian youth are encouraged to invite their neighborhood friends who otherwise would never bother with church. In many communities, the week of summer fun is anticipated with rising excitement.

 

What do my kids do at VBS?

Each morning begins in the worship center as the kids meet their Rainforest Guide. The opening time includes announcements, a skit and singing as they are introduced to the Bible verse and theme for the day. Each “crew” of 4-7 kids then go with their Rainforest Guide to five different stations: Story, Craft, Games/Snack, Skill Center and Music. The morning ends back in the worship center for a closing time.

 

What are the times for VBS?

VBS goes from 9:00 am to noon each day. On Monday, you should check in at the registration table at 8:45 am so that we can get started in the worship center on time at 9:00 am sharp! You can pick your kids up at noon in the worship center.

 

What do you need to bring to VBS?

Each day the kids will be encouraged to wear the “color of the day.” Even if you just have a little bit of the “color of the day” in your outfit, that’s enough to join in the fun! It’s helpful to bring a Bible if you have one, but if not…no worries! A snack will be provided every day. Please let us know if your child has any food allergy issues and we will do our best to accommodate.

 

Can my child be in the same class as his/her friend?

You may request one VBS buddy to be in the same “crew” as your child and we will do our best to accommodate. Friends that are in different crews can still be together as several crews travel together to the different stations.

 

How many adults are involved?

Each child is in a “crew” of 4-7 similarly aged kids being led by an adult or teen.  Each station is manned by at least one adult and there are many who provide support roles. Our typical ratio of volunteers to children is 1 to 3.

 

What aged kids can participate?

Kids must have turned 4 years old prior to when VBS starts. We would love to include your very precocious 3 year old, but we have to be consistent with our policy, so there are no exceptions. Tell your 3 year old that they can definitely participate “next time.”

 

How can I register for VBS?

Registration will begin for VBS 2011 in May, 2011. Check back to the website for an online registration form.

 

Who should I contact if I have questions?

Please contact the church office at 952-881-6956 with questions.