Vacation Bible School is one of the most important weeks of the year for local churches. Children hear the gospel in a clear message that is woven through Bible study and activities. So, what does your ministry to women have to do with VBS?
In my opinion, a lot! When you minister to children, you are ministering to the entire family, including moms. The more you invest in children, the more you send a message that shows you aren’t just providing a drop-off activity for babysitting, but you care about the spiritual development of the entire family.
As you consider how your women’s ministry will serve others during this important week, here are four ways you can partner with your children’s ministry.
1. Many, if not most of the VBS workers at your church are women. Consider how your women’s ministry is connecting to those who are teaching children. Provide special refreshments for VBS workers, give them a daily small gift with a verse of encouragement, and remind them how important this week is for the lives of children. Some women’s ministry leaders provide a special break room for workers so they can have a few minutes to relax and gather their thoughts between activities.
2. Don’t use the excuse that “children aren’t my calling.” I’ve heard this many times, and I honestly don’t get it. I know you may not feel led to work with children every week in your local church, but VBS is one week out of your life! If you care about children—which Jesus certainly called all of us to do—then consider how you will participate in your VBS. Even if you aren’t a Bible study teacher, there are lots of opportunities to volunteer. Whether it’s helping with crafts, recreation, snacks, or registration, find a place where you can serve that brings you joy.
3. Seek ways to connect with moms who don’t normally attend your local church. Many parents look for summer activities for their children, including VBS, so it’s likely you will have children and families who don’t attend your church on a regular basis. Partner with your VBS Director to see if you can follow up with moms who aren’t connected with your church. Send them an email, a letter, or a phone call after VBS is over and invite them to participate in some of the women’s Bible studies and events you have planned for the future.
4. If you work outside the home and are unable to serve during the actual time of VBS, look for others ways you can serve. Purchase snacks ahead of time, help workers prepare rooms on the weekend prior to VBS, or simply invite others in your area of influence who might have children who need to hear the gospel.
Most of all, pray for the impact of Vacation Bible School this summer. Pray for children to hear God’s Word and to fall in love with Jesus. Some of those children might grow up to be women’s ministry leaders like you.
Kelly King is the Women’s Ministry Specialist for Lifeway Christian Resources and oversees the YOU Lead events. Join her this year and get to know her heart for ministry leaders. Follow her on Twitter @kellydking.
