Virtual VBS - Jesus Pulls Us Through
by Tara Pedersen
All Saints’ Church picked the Rocky Railway curriculum for Vacation Bible School (VBS) this year way back in January before COVID-19 hit Northern Virginia. COVID-19 came through our lives like a freight train and derailed countless plans, routines, and expectations. We realized that now more than ever the kids in our community need the hope, reassurance, and abundance of God's love through the unique ministry of Virtual VBS (VVBS). The church’s vision “Overflowing with God’s Love and Healing Power” was not interrupted as we were able to use Rocky Railway VVBS to reach out powerfully to share the message that “trusting Jesus pulls them through life’s ups and downs.” (One of the key verses for the week was: "For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13)
The Virtual VBS schedule included daily videos that families enjoyed at home combined with a festive “Drive-By Parade,” to collect a “pickup pack,” (Bible lesson supplies, science gizmos, music cd, tshirt and treats), an optional dynamic mid-week VVBS Picnic in the church backyard, and a park day at a local park.
(Enjoy photos from the backyard family event here and the VVBS videos here.)
Here are a few highlights from the week:
The VVBS team planned for 50 children, prayed for 30….and registered over 80 children from the church and the greater community.
“Staying on Track Pickup Packs” were delivered to Hilda-Barg Homeless Shelter and music CD’s and tshirts gifted to families at Cloverdale Park during the park day.
This new virtual model allowed flexibility in choice of participating in VBS, alone with one’s family, parents or grandparents, quarantine buddies, or even neighborhood friends. One family shared they invited another registered family to enjoy the videos together.
VVBS was able to minister to people of all ages, not just children, but also youth as they participated in multiple facets, to include young adults, parents and retired empty-nesters.
Families and all ages served together as part of the VVBS Team including a a 12 year old cameraman/videographer technician, a family who lead the worship, young adults and teens who acted in the Bible lessons and led the games and painted decor, and many grandparents making our décor set in their homes.
All Saints’ gives God all the glory and thanks everyone who made Virtual VBS possible!
Tara Pedersen is the Children’s Ministry Director at All Saints’ Church in Woodbridge, VA.