Though the temperatures outside do not feel much like summer, thoughts recently turned to warmer months ahead for dozens of Vacation Bible School leaders. The State Vacation Bible School clinic for associational teams introduced this year’s theme from LifeWay – “Game Day Central: Where Heroes are Made.”
Barry Brown, left, Sue Harmon and Keith Watson lead participants in a “Game Day Central” song-and-motion.“This event is designed to teach you so you can go back and teach the folks in your area how to do this year’s VBS,” said Sue Harmon, South Carolina Baptist Convention childhood ministry group associate director.
Associations will hold VBS clinics around the state for their churches throughout the spring.
“Our job at the state level in VBS is to give training and assistance to the associations. They are the ones who actually train the church leaders. It’s been an effective system for many years now,” said Harmon.
Centered on Hebrews 12:1-2, Game Day Central takes on a sports theme complete with cheers and game-focused crafts, Bible studies and snacks.
Attendees could choose conference sessions on music, missions, crafts, or age-group specific classes.
Cindy Morris, SCBC childhood ministry group director, encouraged participants.
“Thank you for being here, and thank you ultimately for what is done for boys and girls around the state, and ultimately for what is done for the kingdom,” she said.
Harmon recognized those associations who trained the most VBS leaders last year, including Lexington, Waccamaw and Greenville. She also recognized the associations with the highest percentages of churches attending VBS training clinics, including Woodruff, Reedy River, Ridge and Colleton.
More people come to know Christ during VBS than any other church event. Approximately 5,900 people in South Carolina accepted Christ during last year’s emphasis.
In addition to Game Day Central, a Club VBS curriculum, especially designed for smaller settings, is also available. “Jungle Jaunt” is best used with up to 50 children. Both curriculums are currently available at LifeWay stores.
For more information on VBS, contact the childhood ministry group at (800) 723-7242. See a listing of associational clinics at www.scbaptist.org/childhood.