While COVID-19 fundamentally altered our daily routines, several core truths remain constant: the human need for connection, the sovereignty of God, and the essential mission of the church. Although the methods of ministry have adapted to a changing world, the primary goal of preaching the gospel and making disciples continues to be our driving force.
Vacation Bible School serves as a premier example of this enduring mission. As a favored outreach strategy, it offers numerous benefits for returning to VBS for outreach, providing a structured way for congregations to engage their local communities effectively.
For over 122 years, VBS has been a cornerstone of church outreach and discipleship. For many congregations, it represents the single largest evangelistic event of the year, accounting for 25% of all baptisms among Southern Baptist churches annually. Based on recent church reporting data, VBS remains a favored outreach because it consistently produces vital results for the kingdom.
In these times of uncertainty, people need the hope and assurance of the gospel. That’s why we’ve got to get creative in how we effectively—and safely—utilize this important strategy to reach our communities this year. Here are four ways VBS can still happen in 2020.
TRADITIONAL VBS
This is the “VBS as usual” approach. Go all in and all out! For some places it may well be that, by the time VBS rolls around, VBS can happen as it always has. You may have to pick an alternate date, but VBS can still happen as planned. You might even experience record-breaking attendance!
NEIGHBORHOOD VBS
Conduct driveway, front porch, backyard, or cul-de-sac neighborhood gatherings. This approach utilizes church-member “hosts” in multiple neighborhoods throughout your community to conduct a small-scale VBS at their homes. This could be a great solution if you are able to meet in smaller groups of 10–20.
ALTERNATE VBS
Embrace a creative approach using alternative timetables such as conducting VBS over five consecutive weeks (e.g. Wednesday nights, Sunday nights, Saturdays), as a back-to-school kick-off, or over Labor Day weekend or Fall Break. This approach allows you to still do VBS, but in a low-maintenance, low-prep manner.
VBS AT HOME
Deliver VBS directly to the home. Post or livestream media-driven Worship Rallies to engage kids as viewers and utilize home delivery methods to equip parents to facilitate Bible study, recreation, and crafts at home.
VBS will most certainly look different this year, but that’s OK! It’s still worth doing! It’s worth it because the gospel is worth sharing—perhaps now more than ever. COVID-19 did not catch God off guard and I’m convinced He is going to use the hardships we’re experiencing now to draw people closer to Him and to prepare their hearts to receive him. I can’t wait to hear the incredible stories that come out of this year’s VBS!
No matter when or how you do VBS this year, LifeWay is here to support you. Click here to download a free eBook that will help you select the best strategy for your church and conduct your best VBS ever!
For more: Lifeway.com/4ways
This article originally appeared on LifeWayVoices.com and is reposted here by permission.