Anyone who has helped with children at a church knows, Vacation Bible School (VBS) is as big as it gets. Kids who are starting to get bored with their summer, their parents and the heat look forward to a week devoted especially for them: crafts, songs, food, games and of course, Bible stories.
This summer tradition has changed little over the years although family dynamics and situations certainly have. However, this year at Fuquay-Varina United Methodist Church, Emily Sterling, the new Director of Children’s Ministries, is leading a modern VBS experience to include more families than ever.
For starters, for families with parents who work outside the home, FVUMC offers the option of either a morning or evening session to accommodate busy schedules. Another new addition is the special Dad’s group during the evening VBS session. Fathers can join other fathers any nights of the week for engaging videos and discussions about fathering as well as about what the kids are learning in VBS. “This is a great way for men to connect with other men and discuss fathering issues as well as just fellowship,” says Sterling.
FVUMC is also one of the first churches in the area to offer a VBS program for children with special needs. Certified caregivers and trained volunteers lead this program to give every child the Vacation Bible School experience.
Like most VBS programs, FVUMC’s program is suitable for elementary-age children. However, younger children and siblings do not have to be left out. Sterling encourages all children ages 3 through 5th grade to attend. As long as the children are 3 years old by May 1, 2012 and are fully potty-trained, there is a class for them.
This year’s theme is “Dare to go deep with God at OPERATION OVERBOARD!” The evening session runs Sunday, June 24th – Thursday, June 28 from 6pm – 8:30 p.m. The morning session runs Monday, June 25 – Friday, June 29 from 9 a.m. – 12 noon. Families can register their child(ren) by picking up a registration form from the church office or by visiting the children’s tab on the church’s website, www.fvumc.org, and clicking on the VBS information. Registration is open until Sunday, June 17.
Fuquay-Varina United Methodist church is located at 100 S. Judd Parkway. Additional questions may be direct to Emily Sterling at esterling@fvumc.org or at (919)552-4331, ext. 113.
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