thr ugh “WheN You pass the waters, I will be with you.” - Isaiah 43:2
in t o the waters
In
Scripture, water is often a symbol of the things we can’t control (Gen. 1, Ex. 14, Is. 43, Mk. 4). But God is with God’s people in and through deep and tumultuous waters. God is present and powerful when the world around us is chaotic! In the story of Jesus, water becomes a symbol of God’s love and presence. Through the waters of Baptism, God calls us, forgives us, and sends us.
VBS 2026: Into the Waters invites children into God’s story as we walk with the Israelites through the waters of the Red Sea, with Jonah in the belly of the fish, with the Samaritan Woman who meets Jesus at the well, and with Peter as he steps out in faith. As we go deep with these stories, we will see that God is with us, even when the world around us feels wild!
Teacher Tip! — Transition Routine
Line your class up:
• Lead Teacher in the front, with a teacher tote and a walkie-talkie
• Assign one child to be the Mascot Helper. They are second in line, holding the mascot sign.
• Pair children up, giving them each a line buddy for the week. This helps them walk two-by-two and lessens the risk of someone getting lost. While lining up, ask if the children all have their line buddy.
• One teacher or youth leader should serve as the caboose; others can assist children who need extra support.
• Remind your class of their mascot name and what to do if they get separated from the group (Find an adult or teen helper and tell them your mascot, they will help you find your group!)
KEY INFORMATION FOR VBS VOLUNTEERS
WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE?
Please arrive on Monday at 8:15 AM in the Atrium. All volunteers will gather for a group prayer and brief announcements. After we gather, you can head to your classroom to prepare for your students to arrive. Please keep your own children with you until 8:55 AM unless they are in VBS Jr. (childcare). Please arrive at 8:30 AM Tuesday-Friday in the Atrium for prayer and announcements.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME?
• Your phone! For time keeping and safety purposes, all teachers must have their phones with them and on vibrate.
• A walkie-talkie! When you arrive each morning, please pick up the walkie-talkie that has your group name on it.
• Your VBS shirt! Please wear your VBS leader shirt each day so you are clearly marked as a VBS volunteer.
• THIS GUIDE! This guide, along with a teacher tote bag you will find in your classroom, will be important to keep with you each day.
WHAT IS THE STUDENT DROP-OFF/PICK-UP PROCEDURE?
Children will be picked up and dropped off at their respective classrooms. You will have a class list with emergency contacts and allergy/special accommodation instructions, where you will mark attendance each day. Children will not be released to someone other than a parent or primary guardian without the express written permission of the parent or primary guardian. Identification should be checked for anyone picking up a child other than a parent or primary guardian. The person picking up the child must add their initials to the roster each day.
CALL SCRIPT
Please call the parent or primary guardian of each child in your class no later than Friday, June 19. Be sure to cover the points below:
• Introduce yourself and welcome the child to VBS.
• Confirm the child’s name, grade, and any special needs or allergies.
• Ask if there is anything else they would like to share about their child.
• Remind them to join us on Sunday, June 21, for our Ice Cream Social and Friday, June 26, at 11:30 AM for closing worship.
• If something comes up in your call (wrong grade, special need, or allergy not noted), please text Jordana Marcus or Rev. Audrey Thorne.
• Follow up with a text message including a note of welcome and the child’s classroom information for easy reference.
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
MONDAY tuesday wednesday thursday friday
Story A Way Through the Water: Parting the Red Sea
Exodus 14:5-15:21
Scripture
Big Idea
God is:
We are:
Focus Verse
God acts in powerfully loving ways for God’s people.
A God who makes a way out of no way.
Cared for when we face things that are too big for us.
Do not be afraid, stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will accomplish for you today.
(Ex. 14:13)
Heart Verse
The Lord is my strength and my power. God has become my salvation.
(Ex. 15:2)
Guiding Questions
I wonder. . .
How the Israelites must have felt at the sea?
If you have ever been afraid?
What other impossible things has God done?
Tossed into the Water: The Story of Jonah
Stepping Out Onto the Water: Peter Walks on Water
A Taste of Living Water: The Woman at the Well
Fed by the Water: Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish
The book of Jonah Matthew 14:22-33 John 4:4-42 John 21:1-17
God acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
Patient and forgiving.
Loved even when we make mistakes.
You are gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
(Jonah 4:2)
Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for his friends.
Quick to help us.
Held by Jesus’ hand when we are scared.
When Peter noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and he cried out, “Lord! Save me!” Immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. (Matthew 14:30-31)
The Lord is good to all, his compassion is over all that he has made.
(Psalm 145:9)
I wonder. . .
If there are people who are hard to love?
If there is anyone who God doesn’t love?
If there anything we can do to make God love us less?
The Lord is my Salvation, whom shall I fear?
(Psalm 27:1)
Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
The giver of abundant life
Bubbling over with good news!
Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become a spring of water welling up to abundant life.”
(John 4:14)
The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters.
(Psalm 23:1-2)
I wonder. . .
If you have ever been in a storm?
How Peter must have felt stepping out of that boat?
What would you have done if you had been Peter?
I wonder. . .
If you have ever been left out?
What “living water” might mean?
If you have ever heard news so good you just had to share it?
Through us, the risen Christ acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
Feeding and loving all people
Like Jesus when we love others.
Jesus said, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”
He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
(John 21:16)
We love because God first loved us
(1 John 14:9)
I wonder. . .
If someone has ever made you a delicious meal?
What makes you feel most loved?
How might you share God’s love with others?
LEADER GUIDE OVERVIEW
story
Big Idea
is, We are
Verse heart verse guiding questions into the water out of the water deep waters
This lists the story of the day and where it can be found in the Bible. Page numbers refer to the place the story can be found in the Spark Story Bible provided for each class. Reading the scripture from your Bible, from the Spark Story Bible, and from the Storyteller Script in this guide will be good preparation for each day.
This is the main idea for the day. It is the “take away” that teachers should emphasize all day long. Into the Waters centers on God’s powerfully loving activity. in the world.
At the heart of each person's journey of faith are questions about who God is and what that means for who we are. Rather than focusing on what we should DO, Into the Waters focuses on who we are, and what is true of us in God’s eyes. This is a developmentally appropriate approach to faith formation that helps children create a secure attachment to a God who is fundamentally good, strong, forgiving, faithful, and loving - a God who loves them no matter what.
In discussions about the Bible story, the focus verse is a place to focus in. Some of these stories are long and complex, but the focus verse helps us get to the heart of the message for the day.
The Heart Verse is a short, supporting scripture passage that the children can learn and memorize each day. The underlined portion is the simplest summary of what the story of the day says about God and us.
“I wonder” questions help children find their place in the story, to make the story their own. Teachers will use these to start conversations about the story with their class.
This section of the daily curriculum contains more information about the story, the focus, and the intention for the day.
Here, teachers find the goals for the day. These points can help guide discussion in the classroom.
Teachers can use these pointers to help answer difficult questions that may come up during the day’s lesson.
This gathering activity sets the stage for the day, introduces the Story, and builds connection. Dipping in
This is a time when the class enjoys a snack and table conversation to discuss or work with the Story and the Big Idea. Wading in
JUMPING in
This gathering activity sets the stage for the day, introduces the Story, and builds connection.
This is the last time the class gathers for the day. It is a time to help children remember the memory verse and the Big Idea for each day.
STATIONS & ROTATIONS
CLASSROOM
Here we connect with friends and trusted adults. We make life connections between the Big Idea and the story. Activities and discussions here help children to see how this story is their story. This is where we get a chance to wonder about the story.
WORSHIP
Here we gather with the whole VBS community to praise God! This worship service is punctuated with lots of singing and dancing. A mini-sermon/skit introduces the Big Idea for the day. The daily worship time concludes with children bringing forth offerings and praying for our day together.
ART
This is a place to create a reminder of the day’s lesson or the lesson of the week. The finished product will be a conversation starter when the children take them home.
GAMES
This is a place to play and be free to explore the story with our bodies.
BIBLE LAND
This is a place to experience the story. Here we are drawn into the story with an object lesson, we witness the drama, and begin to understand our place in God’s story.
MISSION
Here we learn more about our mission projects and how we can make a difference in the world.
MUSIC
Here we respond to and celebrate the Big Idea and Story. This is the place to cement the story and the lesson in our hearts.
MONDAY SCHEDULE
MONDAY
8:15 VOLUNTEER CHECK-IN
8:25 VOLUNTEER PRAYER & ANNOUNCEMENTS IN ATRIUM
9:00 DIPPING TIME: STUDENTS ARRIVE IN CLASSROOM
9:20 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:25 WORSHIP IN MCFARLAND
9:45 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:50
10:05
10:10
10:25
10:30
10:45
10:50
11:05
(CLASSROOM)
(MCFARLAND)
(COMMON ROOM)
(MCFARLAND)
TO NEXT ACTIVITY
11:10 PLAYGROUND EAST
11:25
11:30
12:00
DISMISSAL FROM CLASSROOM (COMMON ROOM) (COMMON ROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
(MCFARLAND)
TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(CLASSROOM)
TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(COMMON ROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
INTO THE WATER:
This story has a big introduction - the history of the people of God in Egypt, the birth and childhood of Moses, the burning bush, Moses’ return to Egypt, and the ultimate deliverance of God’s people from enslavement in Egypt.
The people of God find themselves with a deep, raging sea in front of them and a pursuing army behind them. What can they do? They can trust that their God makes a way out of no way, and that God can work in powerfully loving ways for his people.
Moses instructs them, “Do not be afraid, stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will accomplish for you today” (Ex. 14:13). It is hard not to be afraid when things are scary, and when the troubles we face are too big for us to fix or solve. But all through the night, God’s angel stands between the people and the army, and in the morning, God makes a way for his people through the sea.
Safe on the other side, the people rejoice! That day, the people of God saw God’s amazing power, love, and protection.
OUT OF THE WATER:
• Children will make a new friend and be eager to return for VBS day 2!
• Children will be able to recount the story of God’s amazing power and love at the Red Sea.
• Children will be able to tell how God works in powerfully loving ways for God’s people, including them!
• Children will be able to think creatively about something in their life that is too big for them, but not too big for God.
DEEP WATERS:
While the enslavement of God’s people in Egypt is not emphasized in our telling of the story, with the emphasis instead being placed on God’s goodness and deliverance, it may come up with older children that the people were enslaved by the Egyptians. It is best to be very honest about this if it comes up. Slavery is a system that has existed all over the world at many times and in many ways. Slavery existed in our own country, too. Slavery is evil because it makes people owners of other people. God made each of us in God’s image, and no one is better or worse than another. Each person is equally made by God to reflect God’s beauty and goodness. This story teaches us that God delivers people from unjust systems like slavery!
Story A Way Through the Water: Parting the Red Sea
Scripture Exodus 14:5-15:21
Big Idea God acts in powerfully loving ways for God’s people.
God is: We are: A God who makes a way out of no way.
Cared for when we face things that are too big for us.
Focus Verse Do not be afraid, stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will accomplish for you today. (Ex. 14:13)
Heart Verse The Lord is my strength and my power. God has become my salvation. (Ex. 15:2)
Guiding Questions I wonder. . .
• How the Israelites must have felt at the sea?
• If you have ever been afraid?
• What other impossible things has God done?
DAILY CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES: MONDAY
JUNE 22, 2026 • DAY ONE: PARTING THE RED SEA
Heart Verse: The Lord is my strength and my power. God has become my salvation. (Ex. 15:2) Big Idea: God acts in powerfully loving ways for God’s people.
DIPPING IN
ARRIVAL ACTIVITY:
See the activity packet and instructions in your classroom to complete the following activities:
• PK & K: Activity A
• G1 & G2: Activity B
• G3&4: Activity C
GATHERING TIME: INTRODUCTIONS
• Students sit in a circle.
• Welcome students by going around the circle and have each student say their name and something they like to do in the water.
• Teach the following call and response from Isaiah 43:1:
Teacher Calls: When you pass through the waters, Class Responds: I will be with you!
Use this throughout the week to get students’ attention.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU: BEACH BALL GET TO KNOW YOU
Throw the beach ball around the circle, and have each child say their name and answer the question their hand is touching. Make sure everyone has a turn.
TELLING THE STORY
Read the story from the Bible in your classroom (Spark Bible, pg. 84). Prompt conversation using the “I wonder” questions below:
I wonder. . .
• How must the Israelites have felt at the sea?
• If you have ever been afraid?
• What other impossible things has God done?
You can use the questions provided or modify them to meet the needs of your age group.
WADING IN • ACTIVITIES DURING SNACK TIME
SNACK TIME
After washing hands and getting settled, invite children to do their “prayer clap” before sharing one of the prayers in the back of this guide (pg. 31).
SNACK TIME TABLE TALK
• Ask children: “What do you like to do in the water?”
• Ask: “What places have you visited that have water and what did you do there?”
• Return to any “I wonder” questions that were missed during dipping time.
HEART VERSE: SONG AND MOTIONS
Song (to the tune of My God is So Big): The Lord is my strength, My strength and my pow…er Exodus fif...teen two.
Motions:
• “The Lord” - Make an L with your right hand and move it from your left shoulder diagonally to your hip.
• “Is my strength and my power” - Let the kids decide on two moves that best show off their muscles.
• “Exodus 15:2” - Make an X with your forearms.
FREE PLAY
If there is additional time during snack time, let the kids play with the free play supplies in your classroom.
JUMPING IN
CLOSING ACTIVITY
Complete the activity in your activity packet:
• PK & K: Activity D
• G1 & G2: Activity E
• G3&4: Activity F
REVIEW HEART VERSE
Review the heart verse for the day with the hand motions learned earlier. This is a great activity for our teen helpers to lead!
CLOSING PRAYER
Dear God, we remember with joy the things you have done for us, your people. You were faithful to Moses no matter where he went, and you are faithful to us. Thank you for making a way out of no way, and for loving us, even when we face things that are too big for us. Help us to remember that YOU are our strength and our power. Amen.
TUESDAY
SCHEDULE
TUESDAY
8:25 VOLUNTEER CHECK-IN
8:30 VOLUNTEER PRAYER & ANNOUNCEMENTS IN ATRIUM
9:00 DIPPING TIME: STUDENTS ARRIVE IN CLASSROOM
9:20 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:25 WORSHIP IN MCFARLAND
9:45 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:50 BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM)
10:05
10:10 SNACK (CLASSROOM) ART BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM) MUSIC (MCFARLAND)
10:25 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
10:30 MUSIC (MCFARLAND)
10:45
(COMMON ROOM)
10:50 ART SNACK (CLASSROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(MCFARLAND)
(CLASSROOM)
11:05 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(CLASSROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
11:10 PLAYGROUND EAST MUSIC (MCFARLAND) GAMES BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM) GARDEN ART
11:25 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
11:30 CLASSROOM CLASSROOM CLASSROOM CLASSROOM
12:00 STUDENT DISMISSAL FROM CLASSROOM
INTO THE WATER:
This story opens us to the way that God acts in powerfully loving ways for ALL people, even for people that are different from us, or people we find hard to love. Jonah, who God has called to preach the good news to the Ninevites, tries to run away because he doesn’t like them. Jonah has a hard but important lesson to learn: God is merciful and gracious. Accepting that mercy and grace are not just for him, but for others too, is his challenge in this story. God loves and forgives Jonah, even when he makes a mistake.
Although it is a scary and strange image, the big fish that swallows Jonah up is not a sign of God’s judgment but of God’s grace. Even when Jonah ran away, God pursued him and pointed him back in the right direction. Like a patient and loving parent, God does not give up on Jonah. And even after all of this, God uses Jonah to bring good news to others.
OUT OF THE WATER:
• Children will be able to share the story of Jonah, sharing what the story means to them, and what it says about God.
• Children will hear and experience God’s patience and forgiveness.
• Children will think about what it means that we are loved no matter what, even when we make mistakes.
DEEP WATERS:
Even at the end of the story, Jonah is grumpy and angry with God for saving the people he did not like. We don’t get a nice, clean resolution here. Older children may be starting to think about issues of justice in the world and their community. It can be frustrating and upsetting to realize that some people care more about their own comfort than other people, creatures, and nature. This is a hard thing to grapple with. This story can start a conversation about how God continues to lovingly challenge people who are stubborn, people who don’t want to do what is right. How can we rest in the truth that God is good and faithful, even when people are not?
Story Tossed into the Water: The Story of Jonah
Scripture The book of Jonah
Big Idea God acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
God is:
We are: Patient and forgiving.
Loved even when we make mistakes.
Focus Verse You are gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. (Jonah 4:2)
Heart Verse The Lord is good to all, his compassion is over all that he has made. (Psalm 145:9)
Guiding Questions I wonder. . .
• If there are people who are hard to love?
• If there is anyone who God doesn’t love?
• If there anything we can do to make God love us less?
DAILY CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES: TUESDAY
JUNE 23, 2026 • DAY TWO: THE STORY OF JONAH
Heart Verse: The Lord is good to all, his compassion is over all that he has made. (Psalm 145:9) Big Idea: God acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
DIPPING IN
ARRIVAL ACTIVITY:
See the activity packet and instructions in your classroom to complete the following activities:
• PK & K: Activity G
• G1 & G2: Activity H
• G3&4: Activity I
GATHERING TIME: INTRODUCTIONS
• Students sit in a circle.
• Go around the circle reviewing yesterday's activities and lesson. You might ask:
• Do you remember who we learned about yesterday?
• What did God do in yesterday’s story?
• What else did we do yesterday? Where do we go? What was your favorite part?
• Review the call-and-response from Isaiah 43:1, and remind them that this is how you will get their attention throughout the week.
Teacher Calls: When you pass through the waters, Class Responds: I will be with you!
• Remind them of the class mascot and to look for their mascot as they travel through the building.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU: THIS OR THAT GAME
Materials: Yarn
Directions:
• Students sit in a circle.
• Take the ball of yarn and wrap it around your wrist a few times (lightly!)
• Throw the ball of yarn to a child. Once they grab it, have them gently wrap the yarn around their wrist a few times.
• Ask them a question about what they prefer. Think things like: cake or ice cream, hot dogs or hamburgers, playing inside or playing outside.
• The child who caught the yarn will answer the question. Then they will throw the ball to another child.
• The child who threw the ball will ask the next child what THEY prefer. They can make up any questions they want, while keeping the options simple.
• Play at least until every child has answered a few questions, and the connections between you become clear in the web of thread.
• Say: “Look how connected we are! We might not all know each other very well yet, but we have so much in common. The things about us that are different make us special. Today, we are going to learn about how
TELLING THE STORY
Read the story from the Bible in your classroom (Spark Bible, pg. 190). Prompt conversation using the “I wonder” questions below:
I wonder. . .
• If there are people who are hard to love?
• If there is anyone who God doesn’t love?
• If you have ever made a mistake?
• If there anything we can do to make God love us less?
WADING IN • ACTIVITIES DURING SNACK TIME
SNACK TIME
After washing hands and getting settled, invite children to do their “prayer clap” before sharing one of the prayers in the back of this guide (pg. 31).
SNACK TIME TABLE TALK
• Talk about today’s BIG idea: God works in powerfully loving ways for ALL people.
• Ask: “Do you see this BIG idea in Jonah’s story? Do you see it in your own life?”
• Ask: “Who are some people you think God loves?”
• God loves all of creation, and that includes ALL of us. When we make mistakes, God forgives us, and nothing can change how much God loves us!
HEART VERSE: MOTIONS
• Read today’s Heart Verse: The Lord is good to all, his compassion is over all that he has made. (Psalm 145:9)
• Practice memorizing the first phrase using the motions below:
• “The Lord” - Make an L with your right hand and move it from your left shoulder diagonally to your hip.
• “Is good” - Give two thumbs up!
• “To all” - Open arms wide.
• Practice this several times, and let the kids add their own variations. Older groups can try to memorize the WHOLE verse.
FREE PLAY
If there is additional time during snack time, let the kids play with the free play supplies in your classroom.
JUMPING IN
CLOSING ACTIVITY
Complete the activity in your activity packet:
• PK & K: Activity J
• G1 & G2: Activity K
• G3&4: Activity L
REVIEW HEART VERSE
Review the heart verse for the day with the hand motions learned earlier. This is a great activity for our teen helpers to lead!
CLOSING PRAYER
Lord, we thank you for another exciting day of VBS, and for the friends we have made. Thank you for loving ALL people. Help us love others the way you love us. And thank you for being patient and forgiving, even if we make mistakes. Amen.
WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE
8:25
WEDNESDAY
CHECK-IN
8:30 VOLUNTEER PRAYER & ANNOUNCEMENTS IN ATRIUM
9:00 DIPPING TIME: STUDENTS ARRIVE IN CLASSROOM
9:20 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:25 WORSHIP IN MCFARLAND
9:45 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:50
10:05
10:10
10:25
10:30
10:45
10:50
11:05
11:10
11:25
(COMMON ROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
12:00
(MCFARLAND)
(COMMON ROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(COMMON ROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
INTO THE WATER:
This story is a beautiful echo of the parting of the Red Sea from Monday. On Monday, we saw God’s power over the water; today, we see that Jesus, too, commands the waters. In both stories, we see God’s people stepping out in faith - trusting that God will bring them through something truly impossible.
We should be amazed at Peter’s faith in this story. His trust in Jesus was big enough that he stepped out onto the water! And then his faith falters. This is not a failure; it is human. It is a reminder to us that our doubts and faltering in faith do not push God away; in fact, Jesus draws closer when Peter begins to fall! Notice the word “immediately” in the story. Jesus does not wait; he grabs Peter’s hand, reminding him that it is not the greatness of his faith that counts, but the faithfulness of his savior.
There will be times in our lives and our journeys of faith when we will doubt and fear. God is quick to help us. Immediately, he takes our hand, and we are held in that powerfully loving hand all the time.
OUT OF THE WATER:
• Children will be able to recount the story of Jesus taking Peter’s hand out on the water.
• Children will consider how God holds them when they are scared.
DEEP WATERS:
As we move from stories of the God of Israel to stories of the man Jesus, children may begin to wonder how God and Jesus are the same. The incarnation of God in Jesus Christ is a mystery, and there is no perfect way to explain it, even to grown-ups. But the important thing to remember is that Jesus IS God. Colossians 1:19 says, “For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell,” and Hebrews 1:3 says, “He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being.” The same God who parted the Red Sea, spoke to Jonah, and saved the Ninevites, is at work here in Jesus. Jesus was fully God and fully human. He was just like God, and just like us. He felt human pains and fears, he cried and got hungry, and asked questions just like us. This is a mystery indeed!
Story Stepping Out Onto the Water: Peter Walks on Water
Spark Story Bible: 294
Scripture Matthew 14:22-33
Big Idea Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for his friends.
God is:
We are: Quick to help us.
Held by Jesus' hand when we are scared.
Focus Verse When Peter noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and he cried out, “Lord! Save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. (Matthew 14:30-31)
Heart Verse The Lord is my Salvation whom shall I fear? (Psalm 27:1)
Guiding Questions I wonder. . .
• If you have ever been in a storm?
• How Peter must have felt stepping out of that boat?
• What you would have done if you had been Peter?
DAILY CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES: WEDNESDAY
JUNE 24, 2026 • DAY THREE: PETER WALKS ON WATER
Heart Verse: The Lord is my Salvation, whom shall I fear? (Psalm 27:1)
Big Idea: Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for his friends.
DIPPING IN
ARRIVAL ACTIVITY:
See the activity packet and instructions in your classroom to complete the following activities:
• PK & K: Activity M
• G1 & G2: Activity N
• G3&4: Activity O
GATHERING TIME: INTRODUCTIONS
• Students sit in a circle.
• Go around the circle review the first two days of VBS. You might ask:
• Do you remember who we learned about yesterday?
• What did God do in yesterday’s story?
• What else did we do yesterday? Where do we go? What was your favorite part?
• We have now learned TWO stories of God’s love. Can you remember the first one?
• Review the call-and-response from Isaiah 43:1:
Teacher Calls: When you pass through the waters, Class Responds: I will be with you!
TELLING THE STORY
Read the story from the Bible in your classroom (Spark Bible, pg. 294). Prompt conversation using the “I wonder” questions below:
I wonder. . .
• If you have ever been in a storm? How did it feel?
• How Peter must have felt stepping out of that boat?
• What Peter’s friends must have thought when he got out of the boat?
• What you would have done if you had been Peter?
• Why Peter started sinking when he looked away from Jesus?
WADING IN • ACTIVITIES DURING SNACK TIME
SNACK TIME
After washing hands and getting settled, invite children to do their “prayer clap” before sharing one of the prayers in the back of this guide (pg. 31).
SNACK TIME TABLE TALK
• Talk about today’s BIG idea: Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for his friends.
• Ask: “Do you see this big idea in our story today?” “Do you see this big idea in your own life?”
• Ask: “What are some ways you think Jesus helps us?”
• Return to any “I wonder” questions that you missed earlier in the day.
HEART VERSE: SONG AND MOTIONS
Song: (to the tune of London Bridge):
The Lord is my salva…tion, salva…tion, salva…tion, The Lord is my salva…tion, Whom shall I fear?
FREE PLAY
Motions:
• “The Lord” - Make an L with your right hand and move it from your left shoulder diagonally to your hip.
• “Is my salvation” - Hold the hand of the person to your right.
• “Salvation” - Hold the hand of the person to your left.
• “Salvation” - Everyone lift your hands into the air while holding hands.
• “Whom shall I fear?” - Shrug your shoulders with your hands out, palm up.
If there is additional time during snack time, let the kids play with the free play supplies in your classroom.
JUMPING IN
CLOSING ACTIVITY
Complete the activity in your activity packet:
• PK & K: Activity P
• G1 & G2: Activity Q
• G3&4: Activity R
WALKING ON WATER GAME (PREK-1ST GRADE)
Materials: Painter's tape, blue steamers, picture of Jesus
Directions:
• Tape a strip of painter’s tape on the floor about 12 feet in length. Hang the picture of Jesus on the wall opposite the end of the tape.
• Divide the class into 2 groups. Have the groups stand along each side of the painter’s tape about 2 feet away from the line.
• Hand out streamers to each child.
• Say, “We are going to take turns walking on the water to Jesus. If it’s not your turn to walk on the water, you get to BE the water. Use your streamer to make waves, and the sounds of howling winds to try to distract the person walking on the water!”
• Give each child a chance to walk to Jesus, keeping their eyes on him so they don’t step off the line.
BIBLE VERSE GAME (GRADES 2-4)
Materials: Each word of the Bible verse on sticky notes. You will need three sets of these on different colored sticky notes. (The Lord is my Salvation, whom shall I fear?)
Directions:
• Stick the notes all over the room in plain sight
• Divide the children up into three groups
• Remind them of the Bible verse (you might review using the song you learned at snack time)
• Give each team a color of sticky note to collect, and have them run around the room collecting their color.
• Once they have collected their sticky notes, each team will put the verse together as fast as they can.
CLOSING PRAYER
Lord, thank you for working in powerfully loving ways for your friends. You are quick to help us, and you hold us when we are scared. Even if we fall, like Peter, you will grab our hand. We love you. Amen.
THURSDAY SCHEDULE
TUESDAY
8:25 VOLUNTEER CHECK-IN
8:30 VOLUNTEER PRAYER & ANNOUNCEMENTS IN ATRIUM
9:00 DIPPING TIME: STUDENTS ARRIVE IN CLASSROOM
9:20 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:25 WORSHIP IN MCFARLAND
9:45 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:50 BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM)
10:05 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
10:10 SNACK (CLASSROOM) ART BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM) MUSIC (MCFARLAND)
10:25 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
10:30 MUSIC (MCFARLAND)
10:45
(COMMON ROOM)
10:50 ART SNACK (CLASSROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(MCFARLAND)
(CLASSROOM)
11:05 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(CLASSROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
11:10 PLAYGROUND EAST MUSIC (MCFARLAND) GAMES BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM) MISSION
11:25 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
11:30 CLASSROOM CLASSROOM CLASSROOM CLASSROOM
12:00 STUDENT DISMISSAL FROM CLASSROOM
(CLASSROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
INTO THE WATER:
The woman Jesus meets at the well is part of a community that has been excluded by others from God’s promises. Plus, she is a woman! And a divorced woman at that. Socially and culturally, she had a lot working against her. In this story, we see Jesus cross cultural boundaries (Jew/Samaritan, Man/Woman, righteous/sinner) to offer living waters of forgiveness and reconciliation to this woman.
Through her encounter with Jesus, she is set free from shame and separation. She learns that the good news of Jesus is for her, too. Bubbling over with this good news, she goes out to share it with others!
And what is the good news Jesus offers? Living waters, waters that satisfy eternally, waters that bring good and abundant life. Jesus says that those who drink from the water he brings will never thirst again. The nourishment Jesus brings is different from the nourishment we find in the world around us. Jesus brings us to living, truly refreshing waters, waters that will never run dry. I wonder how you’ve experienced God’s abundant life and refreshment in your own life?
OUT OF THE WATER:
• Children will be able to recount the story of the woman Jesus met at the well.
• As appropriate, children will have a chance to talk about their own experience of being different, and will feel the inclusion and barrier-breaking love of Jesus.
• Children will consider how they can be inclusive of others.
• Children will consider what it means that Jesus brings abundant life.
DEEP WATERS:
Feelings of shame are deep and take root early in our lives. The shame we internalize as children often lives with us for the rest of our lives. Without putting the spotlight on a child’s shame, this story invites us to delicately and thoughtfully discuss feelings of shame, especially with upper elementary-aged children. Shame can take root when we talk about others in demeaning ways. It is important that we not talk about the woman in the story in a way that demeans her. Instead, we can focus on Jesus’s unconditional love. Look how Jesus talked to someone others didn’t want to talk to! Look how Jesus offers her the same good news he offers everyone else! Look how God gives abundant life and good things to all people! This is truly a story about good news - that God’s arms are open wide to all people.
Story Drinking Living Water: The Woman at the Well
Spark Story Bible: 420
Scripture John 4:4-42
Big Idea Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
God is:
We are: The giver of abundant life
Bubbling over with good news!
Focus Verse Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become a spring of water welling up to abundant life.”(John 4:14)
Heart Verse The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters. (Psalm 23:1-2)
Guiding Questions I wonder. . .
• If you have ever been left out?
• What “living water” might mean?
• If you have ever heard news so good you just had to share it?
DAILY CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES: THURSDAY
JUNE 25, 2026 • DAY FOUR: THE WOMAN AT THE WELL
Heart Verse: The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters. (Psalm 23:1-2)
Big Idea: Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
DIPPING IN
ARRIVAL ACTIVITY:
See the activity packet and instructions in your classroom to complete the following activities:
• PK & K: Activity S
• G1 & G2: Activity T
• G3&4: Activity U
GETTING TO KNOW YOU: PICK A STICK
Materials: Colored Craft Sticks
Directions:
• Students sit in a circle
• Each student picks a stick from the cup. The color they pick indicates the question they will answer.
• Blue: tell us what you like to drink after you’ve been playing sports or running around
• Yellow: tell us what you like to drink with your breakfast
• Green: tell us what you like to drink after you’ve been out in the snow
• Red: tell us what you like to drink with a piece of birthday cake
GATHERING TIME
• Students sit in a circle.
• Go around the circle review the first three days of VBS. You might ask:
• Do you remember who we learned about yesterday?
• What did God do in yesterday’s story?
• What else did we do yesterday? Where do we go? What was your favorite part?
• We have now learned THREE stories of God’s love. Can you remember the other stories we have heard?
• What has been your favorite story so far?
Say: When you pass through the waters!
When the children respond, “I will be with you!” tell them that we are about to hear another story of God showing up by the water. Let’s get ready to listen!
TELLING THE STORY
Read the story from the Bible in your classroom (Spark Bible, pg. 420). Prompt conversation using the “I wonder” questions below:
I wonder. . .
• Have you ever been left out like the woman in the story?
• What “living water” might mean?
• How would it feel to meet Jesus in an unexpected place?
• If you have ever heard news so good you just had to share it?
WADING IN • ACTIVITIES DURING SNACK TIME
SNACK TIME
After washing hands and getting settled, invite children to do their “prayer clap” before sharing one of the prayers in the back of this guide (pg. 31).
SNACK TIME TABLE TALK
• Talk about today’s BIG idea: Jesus acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
• Ask: “Do you see this big idea in our story today?” “Do you see this big idea in your own life?”
• For grades 2-4, ask: “Have you ever had an experience of feeling different or left out? What was that like?” Maybe have teachers or teen leaders offer their own experience first to make the children more comfortable sharing.
• Ask: “What are some ways we can include those who might be excluded?”
• Return to any “I wonder” questions that you missed earlier in the day.
HEART VERSE: MOTIONS (PREK-1)
• “The Lord” - Make an L with your right hand and move it from your left shoulder diagonally to your hip.
• “Is my shepherd” - Bring arms out wide and around yourself like a big hug.
HEART VERSE: ACTIVITY (GRADES 2-4)
Materials: Paper plates with the words from the heart verse
Directions:
• Explain to the children that you have a stack of paper plates, each plate has a few words from the heart verse written on it.
• Place a paper plate on each child’s head with the word facing down. Have them balance if they can, or hold it on with their hands.
• Once everyone has a plate on their head, take turns taking the plate off and reading the words.
• Work as a team to put the words in order!
FREE PLAY
If there is additional time during snack time, let the kids play with the free play supplies in your classroom.
JUMPING IN
CLOSING ACTIVITY
Complete the activity in your activity packet:
• PK & K: Activity V
• G1 & G2: Activity W
• G3&4: Activity X
BEAN BAG GAME (IF TIME ALLOWS)
Materials: 2 bean bags with small cups attached to them with duct tape, picture of a well from bible times, picture of jug from bible times, blue painters tape
Directions:
• Explain that in Jesus’ time, people would walk long distances to wells to get water and carry it home in a jug they carried on their heads.
• Show students how to balance the bean bag on their head.
• Mark a spot on one side of the room with the picture of the jug.
• Have students take turns walking across the room with the “jug” on their head. Students can be in teams or take it one at a time.
CLOSING PRAYER
Thank you, God, for giving us Jesus, who offers us abundant life. Thank you for giving us good news to share with others. Amen.
FRIDAY SCHEDULE
FRIDAY
8:25 VOLUNTEER CHECK-IN
8:30 VOLUNTEER PRAYER & ANNOUNCEMENTS IN ATRIUM
9:00 DIPPING TIME: STUDENTS ARRIVE IN CLASSROOM
9:20 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
9:25 BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM) PLAYGROUND EAST
9:40 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(MCFARLAND)
(MCFARLAND)
9:45 SNACK (CLASSROOM) ART BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM) MUSIC (MCFARLAND) SNACK (CLASSROOM) GAMES
10:00 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
10:05 MUSIC (MCFARLAND) BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
10:20 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
10:25 ART SNACK (CLASSROOM)
(MCFARLAND)
(CLASSROOM)
10:40 TRANSITION TO NEXT ACTIVITY
(COMMON ROOM)
(CLASSROOM)
(COMMON ROOM)
10:45 PLAYGROUND EAST MUSIC (MCFARLAND) GAMES BIBLELAND (COMMON ROOM) ART ART
11:00 TRAVEL TO CLASSROOM
11:05 CLASSROOM TIME
11:20 TRAVEL TOWARD MCFARLAND HALL FOR CLOSING WORSHIP
11:30 CLOSING WORSHIP
11:55 RETURN TO CLASSROOM FOR PARENT PICKUP
12:00 FINAL STUDENT DISMISSAL FROM CLASSROOM
INTO THE WATER:
This week, we have seen how God comes to us in the water - at the Red Sea, in the belly of a whale, in the midst of a storm, at the well - and here by the side of a lake. I wonder if Peter, unsure of what to do after the death of Jesus and his own denial of him, returns to the water knowing that he will be met by God there, as God’s people have been met so many times before.
From the water, Jesus calls to him. After bringing up a miraculous catch of fish, Peter recognizes who it is that calls. When Peter recognizes the risen Lord, he jumps all the way into the water! This is so typical of Peter, who won't let fear or doubt, or even denial, keep him from jumping all in for Jesus.
By the water, Jesus feeds his friends. And after he feeds his disciples, as they are filled and satisfied, he tells them to go and do like he did. He asks them to feed others. It is beautiful how love is equated with feeding in this story. How much love has been shared throughout human history through shared meals? We experience this same grace every time we go to the Lord’s table. And at the table, from this place of abundance, we are asked to go and do what Jesus did. To feed, to love, to care for others, everywhere we go. This is what it means to be like Jesus.
OUT OF THE WATER:
• Children will remember all the ways God has shown up in and by the water.
• Children will be able to recount the story of Jesus and Peter by the water, particularly how Jesus showed his love for his disciples.
• Children will consider ways that they can feed Jesus’ sheep.
Story Fed by the Water: Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of FisH
Scripture John 21:1-17
Big Idea Through us, the risen Christ acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
God is:
We are: Feeding and loving all people
Like Jesus when we love others.
Focus Verse Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”(John 21:16)
Heart Verse We love because God first loved us (1 John 14:9)
Guiding Questions I wonder. . .
• If someone has ever made you a delicious meal?
• What makes you feel most loved?
• How you might share God’s love with others?
DAILY CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES: FRIDAY
JUNE 26, 2026 • DAY FIVE: JESUS AND THE MIRACULOUS CATCH OF FISH
Heart Verse: We love because God first loved us (1 John 14:9)
Big Idea: Through us, the risen Christ acts in powerfully loving ways for all people.
DIPPING IN
ARRIVAL ACTIVITY:
See the activity packet and instructions in your classroom to complete the following activities:
• PK & K: Activity Y
• G1 & G2: Activity Z
• G3&4: Activity AA
GATHERING TIME
• Students sit in a circle.
• Go around the circle review the first four days of VBS. You might ask:
• Do you remember who we learned about yesterday?
• What did Jesus do in yesterday’s story?
• What else did we do yesterday? Where do we go? What was your favorite part?
• We have now learned FOUR stories of God’s love. Can you remember the other stories we have heard?
• What has been your favorite story so far?
Say: “Today will be a little bit different. The rhythm we’ve gotten used to will be switched up just a bit! Let’s look ahead at today’s schedule and see what will be different.” (today we will go to worship at the end of the day instead of the beginning)
Say: When you pass through the waters!
When the children respond, “I will be with you!” tell them that we are about to hear one more story of God showing up by the water. Let’s get ready to listen!
TELLING THE STORY
Before you begin, tell the children that today’s story happens after Jesus has risen from the dead. He is getting ready to go to heaven to be with God, and he wants his friends to know how to care for each other when he’s gone.
Read the story provided in your classroom materials. Today’s story is not in the Spark Bible. Prompt conversation using the “I wonder” questions below:
I wonder. . .
• If someone has ever made you a delicious meal?
• If your parents make sure you’re taken care of if they ever leave town for a trip?
• What makes you feel most loved?
• Why Jesus told Peter to feed his sheep?
• How you might share God’s love with others?
WADING IN • ACTIVITIES DURING SNACK TIME
SNACK TIME
After washing hands and getting settled, invite children to do their “prayer clap” before sharing one of the prayers in the back of this guide (pg. 31).
SNACK TIME TABLE TALK
• Talk about today’s BIG idea: Through us, the risen Christ acts in powerfully loving ways for all people. This is a more complex BIG idea than we’ve had so far. Take time breaking it down and helping the children understand what this means.
• Ask: “Do you see this big idea in our story today?” “Do you see this big idea in your own life?”
• Ask: “What are some ways we can include those who might be excluded?”
• Return to any “I wonder” questions that you missed earlier in the day.
• Ask: “What is the thing you are most thankful for this week? What is one thing we did, or one person you met, that made the week amazing?”
HEART VERSE: SONG AND MOTIONS
Song: Practice the heart verse to the tune of the first part of “Amazing Grace”
We love because God first loved us
First John Fourte…en nine! (Repeat twice to resolve the tune)
FREE PLAY
Motions:
• “We” - Point to yourself
• “Love because” - Make hands into a heart shape
• “God first” - point to the sky
• “Loved us” - Hug yourself
• “1 John 14:9” - Hold up one finger
If there is additional time during snack time, let the kids play with the free play supplies in your classroom.
JUMPING IN
CLOSING ACTIVITY
FISHING GAME (PREK-1ST GRADE)
Materials: blue fabric, glass pebbles, paper fish with paper clips attached, fishing pole with magnet
Directions:
• Crumple fabric so it looks a bit like waves on the rug. Add the glass pebbles and fish on top of the fabric.
• Allow children to take turns “fishing” for the paper fish.
COOTIE CATCHERS (GRADES 2-4)
Materials: cootie catcher paper, markers, pencils
Directions:
• Demonstrate how to mark the 4 colors and 8 numerals.
• Brainstorm ways to show God’s love.
• Write them on the cootie catcher and play the game.
CLOSING PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for VBS, for the friends we’ve made, and the things we’ve learned this week. Thank you for your promise that when we pass through the waters, when things are hard or scary, when we are excluded or unsure, you are with us. Now help us share your love with others. Amen.
TEACHER TIPS FOR CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT
ESTABLISH SIMPLE RULES ON DAY #1
Such as, in this class. . . We listen when others are talking. We keep our hands to ourselves. We respect each other's things. We listen closely to the stories and instructions we receive during the day.
USE A TRANSITION SIGNAL
The response from Isaiah 43:1, “When you pass through the waters,” “I will be with you!” Is a built-in way to get children’s attention. Talk about this on day one, so that when they hear these words, they stop what they are doing and look at you.
WAIT TO SPEAK UNTIL THE CHILDREN ARE QUIET AND READY TO LISTEN.
KEEP ORDERLY LINES TO ENSURE NO ONE GETS LOST
Use the buddy system for easy two-by-two walking, and so that kids can help keep track of each other. Count children before and after you arrive at each location.
NAME AND PRAISE CONSTRUCTIVE BEHAVIORS
Acknowledging when a child is listening well or helping others is a great way to water the seed of that activity. What we water grows! So give good attention to good behavior, rather than naming or calling our negative behaviors.
SEE THE CHILD, NOT JUST THE BEHAVIOR
Difficult behaviors can be an indicator that a child needs extra support. Check in on yourself throughout the day and make sure you are not equating difficult behavior with a “bad child.” God gives us unconditional positive regard, and we must extend that to children as well. If a child is being disruptive to others, sit beside them, place a hand on their shoulder. Your simple presence may be enough to disrupt the behavior. If they are disruptive over a significant period of time, have one teacher take them aside and see what they need. Do not ignore children who are difficult for you while giving extra attention to the children you consider “good” or “well behaved.” We can ignore bad behavior without ignoring the child. If a child is unmanageable, call Audrey or Jordana for support.
SNACK TIME PRAYERS
THANK YOU
Thank you for the food we eat, Thank you for the world so sweet, Thank you for the birds that sing, Thank you God for everything
JOHNNY APPLESEED (SUNG)
OOHHHHHHHHH
The Lord is good to me, And so I think the Lord, For giving me the things I need, The sun and the rain and the apple seed, The Lord is good to me! Amen! Amen!
GOD IS GREAT
God is great, God is good,
Let us thank him for our food. By God’s hands we are fed
Thank you, Lord, for daily bread.
THANK YOU FOR THE GIFT OF FOOD
Dear Lord, Thank you for this gift of food You’ve placed upon our table. And help us all to do your work In any way we’re able.
SUPERMAN GRACE (SUNG)
Thank you Lord, for giving us food. Thank you Lord, for giving us food. For the food that we eat, For the friends that we meet, Thank you Lord, for giving us food.
DOXOLOGY (SUNG)
Praise God from whom all blessings flow, Praise God all creatures here below, Praise God above you heavenly hosts. Creator, Christ, and Holy Ghost. Amen!
PICK UP GAMES FOR SLOW MOMENTS
SPARKLE
This is a group game to review memory verse you have already learned. Children stand in a circle facing eachother. The teacher says the reference for a recent heart verse. The game begins with one child saying the first word of the verse. The next child says the next word and so on until the verse has been completed. When the last word of the verse is said, the next child in line says “sparkle!” and the child after them sits down. Start the verse over with the next person standing and repeat until all children are seated. The last person standing says the whole verse and then the group shouts, “sparkle!” together.
ERASE-A-WORD
If you have downtime in a room with a white board or chalk board, write that day’s heart verse on the board and have the children say the verse together. Have the children close their eyes. Erase one word while their eyes are closed. Then have them open their eyes and say the verse again, filling in the blank word. Continue until all the words are gone and see if the children can say the verse together from memory.
1-2-3-LOOK
Children sit in a circle facing each other. They close their eyes and lower their heads. When they hear “1-2-3 Look” They open their eyes and look right at one other child. If that child is looking back at them, they are both out.
RED LIGHT, GREEN LIGHT
A classic for testing children's listening and self-control.
FREEZE DANCE
Play music and have kids dance until the music stops; if they don’t freeze, they sit down. Play until only one child is left dancing. Modify this game by making them freeze in certain positions, increasing the ridiculousness.
EGG, CHICKEN, DINOSAUR
Everyone starts the game as an egg. Eggs must crouch into a ball and waddle around to find other eggs. Once you’ve paired with another egg, play a game of rock, paper, scissors. If you win, you become a chicken (standing up more but still crouching). You must find another chicken and play rock, paper, scissors again. If you win, you become a dinosaur (standing upright). You can only play a match with someone at the same stage as you. If at any point you lose a match of rock, paper, scissors, you go back a level, turning from a dinosaur into a chicken and from a chicken back into an egg (you never get smaller than an egg or bigger than a dinosaur). Play until it gets old or until most of the group are dinosaurs.
ZIP, ZAP, ZOP
Everyone stands in a circle facing each other. The starting player claps, points at another player, and says “Zip.” That player then claps, points at another player, and says “Zap.” That player immediately claps, points at another player, and says “zop.” The goal is to go as quickly as possible without pauses and develop a rhythm as a team. If a player hesitates, says the wrong word, or drops the rhythm, they can be out, or you can simply take a moment to regroup. Change the words to Zip, Zap, Boing, after a time to make it even trickier. Or name an emotion, "Mad, Glad, Sad, or Afraid," with which players must say the words.
HUMAN KNOT
The group stands in a circle, and everyone puts their hands out into the middle. Then close your eyes and grab another hand, trying not to grab the hand of the person directly next to you. Every person should hold a hand in each of their hands. Then open your eyes and try to undo the human knot you have created.
TWO TRUTHS AND A LIE
A quick, classic icebreaker where each person shares two facts and one lie, while keeping the lie a secret. The other players must guess which one is false.
WOULD YOU RATHER
Pose hypothetical, silly questions to the group. Kids love adding their own ideas to this game.
K & Grade 1
Classrooms
Food Pantry
FLOORPLANS
Bibleland
Classrooms
VBS Jr.
PK/K
Art East Playground
VBSX
Worship & Music
Grade 2 Classrooms
Meeting Rooms Sanctuary Level
Sanctuary & Chapel
McFarland Hall
Center for Family Life Ministries
Reception Room
Elementary Classrooms
Grades 3 & 4
Porte Cochere
Porte Cochere
VBS 2026 JUNE 22-26
COVENANT OF WELCOME
In a welcoming community of faith, we believe we are connected to one another in and through the love of God, the grace of Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Therefore, we covenant to:
LEARN together courageously, thoughtfully, and intentionally, “speaking the truth in love” and making space for others to do the same;
LISTEN with humility, curiosity, open-mindedness, and love;
RESPECT the dignity of all others;
HONOR differences, gifts and talents, and boundaries;
PROTECT the vulnerable and those whose voices are not heard;
Hold ourselves and others ACCOUNTABLE when we do harm, teach falsely, and sow divisions; PRAY openly, willingly, and unceasingly as Jesus taught us;
FORGIVE as God forgives us.
In a welcoming community of faith, people can feel safe, seen, understood, valued, and loved.
Created by the Formation Committee of the Session of Second Presbyterian Church, February 22, 2022
Scripture references: Eph 4:15; 1 Cor 10:24; 10:31; 1 Tim 3:15; Book of Order D-1.0
