VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: A Wonderful Week for Children to Share in Fun and Faith

School may be out for the summer, but you can still keep your kids engaged with their faith through the Vacation Bible School (VBS) program, held this year at St. James from Aug. 1-4! This summer’s theme is “Rocky Railway” and will provide children with lessons about trusting in Jesus.

Michelle Ross’ children have enjoyed VBS over the years and she likes to get her whole family involved. This will be her fifth year helping with VBS.

“It’s something we plan that we’re going to do every summer,” Michelle says. “It’s a great way for them to have a week where they’re learning about Jesus and helping to deepen and grow their faith.”

VBS is geared towards children from 4 years old to those entering fifth grade. Each day, the theme is tied in with Bible stories and the children learn through games, activities, and songs. The kids get to enjoy being outdoors for many of the games and Michelle makes sure there is always some sort of water game to keep them cool and entertained.

“My hope is that the kids get to spend the week deepening their Catholic faith and love for Jesus while having a lot of fun,” Michelle says.

The VBS volunteers include adults and high school students who help run the stations and lead the kids from one activity to the next. They also help set up, clean up, and prepare meals. The program follows a pre-planned curriculum that delivers well-rounded and quality lessons to the kids in an age-appropriate way.

“I love the last night when the week wraps up,” she says. “We have a little performance for the parents and grandparents. It is really fun to come together as a community and see what the kids learned throughout the week.”

During summer vacation, VBS is a great way to make sure your kids continue to grow in their faith and participate in the life of the church. VBS is open to students from St. Joseph and St. Andrew, as well. Registration forms are available in the back of the church or on the Holy Family Area website.

“At the end of the day, we really want the kids to have fun,” Michelle says. “We want them to go home and be excited about their faith.”

To register your child for VBS, please visit www.holyfamilyarea.org or look for the registration forms at the back of St. James. To volunteer, contact Ann Voller at areaffcoordinator@holyfamilyarea.org or 320-226-5205.