By Lauren Bearry BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a widely familiar term in our culture, identifiable with both kids and parents as a fun way to learn about God’s Word. Vacation Bible School traces its roots to New York City where in 1898 Virginia Hawes, concerned with the spiritual formation of school children, rented a beer hall in the city’s East Side … [Read more...]
Recent webinar highlights how churches can disciple the next generation
By Myriah Snyder BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — A child, around 12 years old, and her parents walked through the front doors of Bryan Rose’s church one Sunday a few weeks ago. Rose, Auxano’s manager of engagement strategy, and his wife were serving as greeters and welcomed the family. As they spoke with them at the first-time guest table, Rose asked the daughter, “Do you want to go to … [Read more...]
5 quick tips for VBS follow-up
By Melita Thomas BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — The days and weeks immediately following VBS are the most crucial for outreach. But so often this critical element seems to fall through the cracks. We all have good intentions for connecting with children and families again after VBS, but then the aftermath of VBS kicks in. The excitement of VBS is over; people are tired; life returns to … [Read more...]
Mandrell shares special needs resources, celebrates 100 years of VBS ministry in 2024 report
By Aaron Earls INDIANAPOLIS — Addressing the 2024 Southern Baptist Convention, Lifeway President and CEO Ben Mandrell shared the organization’s focus on serving church leaders and answered four key questions messengers may have. Mandrell referenced leaving the pastorate five years ago to helm Lifeway and quoted from James Frost, the founding president of the organization, who … [Read more...]
Lifeway’s 2025 VBS theme ‘Magnified!’ leads kids to explore God’s greatness
By Marissa Postell Sullivan BRENTWOOD, Tenn — God is beyond our complete understanding, yet we can know Him and have a personal relationship with Him. He keeps the world turning yet is never too busy for us. He created massive galaxies, yet still gave even the tiniest creature incredible detail. How can all these things be true? Next summer, kids will explore … [Read more...]
