As the school year winds down and the hum of lawnmowers fills the air, a familiar excitement is building in our churches. Summer is fast approaching, and with it comes a beloved tradition that has shaped generations: Vacation Bible School.

Whether you are currently knee-deep in glitter and cardboard decorations or just starting to notice more kids on bikes around your neighborhood, the shift in the season is palpable. VBS is a staple of our churches for good reason. It’s often said that it can take up to 35 exposures to the Gospel before someone is ready to follow Christ; VBS represents a massive, joyful opportunity to provide those vital exposures to children and their families all in one week.

A Century of Impact

Is a century-old strategy still effective for today’s kids? According to Lifeway Research, the answer is a resounding "Yes!" In her article, What is so Important About VBS?, Melita Thomas points out that VBS consistently accounts for roughly 25% of all baptisms in Southern Baptist churches.

Think about that impact: one-quarter of all people reached by our churches find their way to the Gospel through this single week of ministry. Far from being a "fad," VBS is a "summer intensive." While a typical child might attend church twice a month, the fifteen hours of a standard VBS week are equivalent to seven months of Sunday School! This concentrated time allows for deep relationship building and intentional discipleship.

Why We Celebrate the "Holy Chaos"

Reflecting on years of ministry, we know that VBS is more than just snacks and crafts—it is a spiritual catalyst:

• Your Greatest Evangelistic Event: This is likely the most significant week on your calendar. More children will hear the Good News in these few days than perhaps any other time of year.

• Discipleship in Action: VBS is a high-point for your volunteers. Watching them serve in the midst of the "holy chaos" is a beautiful picture of the body of Christ in action.

• A Doorway to the Community: It is a non-threatening way for families to connect with your church. Even when kids "VBS hop" from church to church, every week is one more seed planted in their hearts.

• Generational Impact: God uses these weeks to change entire households. We’ve seen a single child’s decision to follow Christ lead to the salvation and baptism of their entire family!

Let’s Celebrate Together!

As you transition to our new mobile model, we want to be right there with you. If your church is hosting a VBS this summer, please let us know your dates! We would love to stop by, see what God is doing in your community, and share that encouragement with the rest of our Association.

Thank you for your faithfulness to the next generation. Let’s pray fervently for our opening rallies and expect the Holy Spirit to move in mighty ways!