Teams from associations across the state gathered recently for the first step in helping churches prepare for this summer’s Vacation Bible Schools. The State VBS Clinic, held at White Oak Conference Center, introduced leaders to Bible school curriculum, and gave helps in knowing how to lead in associational VBS clinics.
Tommy Comer, associate pastor at First Baptist Church, Gaffney, teaches a children’s leaders class for Vacation Bible School 2009, “Boomerang Express: It All Comes Back to Jesus.”This year’s LifeWay VBS is titled “Boomerang Express: It All Comes Back to Jesus.” The Australian theme was evident at the state clinic, as learning activities were held amidst backdrops of train depots, the Outback, boomerangs and kangaroos. Leaders were encouraged to use the theme as a way to attract attention and add to the fun of VBS, while keeping the focus on teaching the Bible.
Bible stories for this VBS are centered on Peter’s relationship with Jesus. Through Peter’s example, people will learn that the most important thing in life is to follow, worship, confess, serve, and obey Christ. VBS is a leading evangelistic tool for many churches, with an average of four professions of faith for every VBS that is held.
The focus of one display at the State VBS Clinic was archaeological rather than Australian. “Truth Trek” is the theme for this year’s Club VBS materials. Club VBS is designed with limited age groupings and materials. It is helpful for smaller churches, or for any church that wants an alternative theme while staying with Southern Baptist-published materials.
To learn more about VBS or to find out when your association will hold its training clinic, visit www.scbaptist.org/vbs, or call (800) 723-7242.
Harmon is assistant director of the childhood ministry group of the South Carolina Baptist Convention.