VBS as Faith Formation
Last week, over 60 kids, youth, and adults gathered at Grace for ReNew VBS to hear about the love of God for all people and all of creation! It was an awesome, fun-filled week of stories, songs, laughter, and play!
And… it’s also an important part of ongoing faith formation in children, youth, and adults.
You might be thinking, “Seriously, Pastor Tania, not everything is about faith formation…..”
Well, maybe not. But Vacation Bible School certainly is!
Faith formation is the process by which our faith is nurtured and grows, and how our lives are shaped by God’s love. According to ChristianBook.com, “Vacation Bible School (VBS) brings children, youth, families, and caring adults together for a week of fun, learning, and spiritual growth. While some people may see it as just another summer activity, VBS serves as a vital part of children’s discipleship and is often the single largest outreach event the church will do in a calendar year. VBS presents the gospel, fosters community, and deepens faith for all who are involved, including kids, teens, parents and volunteers.” There are very few places in our culture where people from different households, backgrounds, and generations can gather together. Church – and VBS – is one of those!
Over the week, we:
learned about God’s love in Jesus through stories, songs, crafts, and science experiments
negotiated big feelings and sometime conflicts between kids
sang and danced along to fun music (no embarrassment here!!)
made new friends
donated items and funds to support the Adel Good Samaritan Food Pantry as a service project
most of all, laughed and had FUN with all different ages!!
After, isn’t this what faith formation is all about? Learning about Jesus and God’s love AND how to live out our faith together in community! What a gift and blessing!
Pastor Tania
