The holiday month is upon us, and for many organizations, this means it’s time to plan and prepare for Vacation Bible School (VBS).
“VBS can be your church’s biggest evangelistic outreach
event of the year!” How many
times have you heard that? If you haven’t heard it from me, you’ve possibly
heard it from one or two other VBS publishers—BECAUSE IT’S TRUE!
VBS directors tend
to be selfless and motivated, and they get really excited when kids understand
the concepts being taught. Whenever I can, I ask directors why they do VBS. It
pains me if they never bring up evangelistic endeavors. While I encounter this
situation more frequently than I care to admit, I experience joy when directors
tell me about lives changed by the program and how they endeavor to share the
gospel with as many kids as possible—they just get it!
VBS is a fun-filled
week of activities and ministry for children. However, there are many factors
to consider in your planning, including staffing and volunteers, outside
activities and First-Aid. Make sure your church is prepared to handle the
excitement of children and the risk factors associated with those events.
Staffing and Volunteers
VBS is a large event
and in order for it to be organized and executed efficiently, churches often
utilize help from staff and volunteers. While this help is appreciated and can
create a positive environment for participants, organizations must ensure these
individuals can be entrusted with the care of children. Therefore, it is
important to utilize background checks for all employees and volunteers. Check
these reports for any offenses involving children and any sexual offenses or
crimes of violence that would preclude someone from being a VBS worker.
The care for
children is important, but it also is necessary to consider the care for
adults. Specifically, preventing sexual harassment between adults is important
in creating an all-around safe environment. Consider these safeguards to
prevent your organization from experiencing a sexual harassment allegation:
- Clearly articulate that sexual
misconduct or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
- Have written and posted policies that
clearly define what constitutes sexual harassment.
- Conduct initial training for new workers
and ongoing training for employees and volunteers.
Outside Activities
Many VBS events are
often held outdoors. Being outside also creates a more entertaining and
enjoyable environment for children. When setting up outside, consider the
following: Move all cords (speakers, microphones, etc.) away from walkways. At
the very least, cords should be held down and visibly marked with colored tape.
- Mark and protect all stakes and ropes
for large, outdoor tents.
- Depressions and holes in grassy areas
should either be filled or visibly marked. Consider planning activities
away from any such hazards.
- Make sure that any temporary (folding)
tables and chairs being used are sturdy and free from defects.
- Monitor weather reports and make
alternative plans in case the weather appears threatening.
First-Aid
Take the necessary
steps to prepare your staff and volunteers for any medical situation that could
occur. Consider training these adults about basic First Aid and CPR. Additionally,
review your church’s First-Aid kit, and ensure it is fully stocked and
up-to-date. Developing a plan with specific steps for specific medical
situations can make the difference in effectively handling a medical emergency.
Safety Tweaks for a Fun Week
VBS is a time for
children and adults alike to enjoy a week of fun and ministry. Make sure your
organization is prepared and ready for the risks associated with this event.
Final Word -
I love participating
in VBS because God allows me to be a part of pointing people to Jesus in an
engaging and winsome way. It’s awesome to know that lives will be impacted all
around the world because the gospel is being shared through the curriculum I’m
a part of. You, too, have reason to be excited—you and I are partners together
in this. Neither of us may be decorating the front of the church, volunteering
during the actual VBS week, or even teaching the lessons; but we both play a
part in God’s work by resourcing churches to accomplish great things for Him.