Four Calloway County Churches Join Together for Successful VBS

Hazel, Mason's Chapel, Lynn Grove, and South Pleasant Grove United Methodist Churches all came together for a week of Vacation Bible School July 11-15 nightly from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Over the past 7 years, Lynn Grove UMC has partnered with South Pleasant Grove UMC for Vacation Bible School and in the last 3 years, Hazel-Mason's Chapel has joined the team. During this time, VBS has been hosted by South Pleasant Grove UMC but with their recent remodel the location was changed to Hazel UMC and has been agreed by representatives of all 4 churches that this 'United VBS' should rotate its location.

This year we averaged 25 children each night who were loved and taught lessons from the Bible about how “God Keeps His Promises.” There were crafts, meals, and themed recreation time. Music time was made especially meaningful as “old school” children's Bible songs were learned throughout the week and then the same CD was sent home with the children to enjoy. Lesson time was full of facts and fun with “Dr. Bones” (Mrs. Heather Suggs from Hazel UMC who wrote this year's curriculum) who was our leader as we “Tracked the Bones of Joseph” with puppets named “G.W.” which stands for “God's Word” and “Camille” the Camel.

On the last night of our VBS we had 72 children, parents, and family join us for one last lesson and activity, songs, meal, and a special visit from Mr. Ron Wright of Gideon's International who gave a Bible to each child. Over the course of the week we had a friendly competition between our 3 age groups to see which group could collect the most canned food and non-perishable items for Needline of Calloway County. This week we were blessed to deliver 200 items.

So, take heart and start planning for VBS 2017 NOW small membership churches! Think about who you can join together with to reach the precious children in your community! It takes months of planning and a lot of work, but to quote one child from our VBS, “I can't wait to come back to Vacation Bible School next year!” That makes it ALL worth it!