VBS 2010
While I didn’t publish one on my blog for 2009, I did indeed research Vacation Bible School material. The congregation where I minister settled on “Studio Go!” from Standard Publishing in 2009. The VBS came from a different approach than most VBS (jungle, safari, pirates) with a “game show” theme. The material focused on “Go”-ing, making it a very proactive VBS that we all (including the kids) enjoyed and learned from.
Many of the kits from 2009 are still available and look interesting, but for our purposes I’ll just “review” what’s new for 2010 that peaked my interest. By the way, I do this knowing full-well that many congregations have already picked a VBS kit, but (*ahem*) I know that some haven’t!
Group’s new VBS for 2010 is “High Seas Expedition.” And while a first glance might cause us to think that it is just another “pirate VBS” – it is not. It’s a 5 day VBS using their “trademark” cute characters to explore the “seven seas.” That kind of means a “sea-safari” of sorts (kind of). The main day’s themes emphasize God’s Word and are: God’s Word is true; God’s Word is comforting; God’s Word is surprising; God’s Word is life-changing; and God’s Word is for everyone. The “usual” disclaimers apply as Group is not affiliated with the churches of Christ.
Standard Publishing has my attention again this year with yet another different approach to their VBS for 2010. This year’s theme is “Hero Headquarters.” And if you’re thinking super heroes, you’re on the right track. The fun-filled five day VBS day’s themes include: Heroes do the unexpected; Heroes take action; Heroes step out on faith; Heroes save the day; and Heroes stand for truth. Again, the “usual” disclaimers apply.
When I first saw Concordia Publishing’s “Planet Zoom” I thought – “cool, a space theme VBS!” – but it turned out to be about a bee (not quite Bug Safari, but about the same). Now, this 5 day VBS is still a nicely prepared kit that is simple and easy to do. The main day’s themes are: Biz-z-zy Believers; An Unbee-lievable Meal; Amaz-z-zing Care; A New Bee-ginning; and Bee Free in Jesus. I will say that out of the VBS I’ve looked at their snacks seem really simple and tasty looking too! Again, the “usual” disclaimers apply.
Group also has a second VBS for 2010 with an “Egyptian” emphasis called “Egypt Joseph’s Journey from prison to palace.” And unlike the three above, this has got to be the most “involved.” I say this because of the costuming and decorations. Still, don’t let that “scare you” – the overall message is an important one. While the VBS uses Joseph’s story as a backdrop, the five day’s themes are: God gives us hope; God gives us special abilities; God gives us wisdom; God gives us forgiveness; and God gives us a family. Again, the “usual” disclaimers apply.
Gospel Light has a fun looking VBS for the younger crowd called “SonQuest Rainforest.” Yeah, it’s a “jungle” theme (rainforest/jungle = same), but kids like that stuff! The snacks look simple, but the crafts are a little expensive because they’re all kits. The five day’s very fundamental themes are: Get it; Get found; Get God’s love; Get praying; and Get going. Do I need to say it: the “usual” disclaimers apply.
While there are a few other VBS kits new for 2010 these are the five that caught my eye. Unless someone is hiding something, I don’t see anything new for 2010 from the churches of Christ. Still, “Rise and Shine for Jesus” from Lambert Book House (farm based theme) sounds like lots of “hee haw” fun with sound Biblical teaching. The five day’s themes are: By Being Thankful; By Caring and Sharing; By Being Honest; By Being a Peacemaker; and By Overcoming Temptation. No disclaimer needed 🙂
http://highseas.group.com
http://www.vacationbibleschool.com
http://planetzoom.cph.org
http://egypt.group.com
http://www.gospellightvbs.com/2010
http://www.lambertbookhouse.com/VBSlanding.html