One of the earmarks of Christianity in America and throughout the world over the past century is a summer tradition called Vacation Bible School, colloquially referred to by the acronym VBS. While the word “school” in the title may be a bit annoying for a kid who has just spent the last nine months trying to do everything to get out of the academic regimen, the experience at VBS is usually everything that a child seeking summer adventure desires.
It really seems to be almost criminal when one presents the Bible in a way that is uninteresting and even boring. The Scriptures themselves are jam-packed with death defying adventure, battles between good and evil, heroics, treasure 
hunts, astounding forces of nature, and mind-blowing supernatural acts of God. Whether one is interested in saving the planet or saving lives, understanding the animal kingdom or the human condition, it’s all in there. Philosophers will find their answers there, archaeologists and historians will search for clues there, students of literature and poetry will discover gold there, and for those seeking ultimate answers for life’s biggest questions, it’s all there. Truth is no longer elusive, and dilemmas of world hunger, the existence of evil and matters of the human heart are all approached with forthright clarity. And it is fascinating how many families who have never attended a VBS are shocked by the fun of it all.
hunts, astounding forces of nature, and mind-blowing supernatural acts of God. Whether one is interested in saving the planet or saving lives, understanding the animal kingdom or the human condition, it’s all in there. Philosophers will find their answers there, archaeologists and historians will search for clues there, students of literature and poetry will discover gold there, and for those seeking ultimate answers for life’s biggest questions, it’s all there. Truth is no longer elusive, and dilemmas of world hunger, the existence of evil and matters of the human heart are all approached with forthright clarity. And it is fascinating how many families who have never attended a VBS are shocked by the fun of it all.At Calvary Chapel, we are launching this coming Monday, June 29, a week long adventure in the Bible with the theme, “Jesus Christ: The Kingdom Strikes Back”. We will transform our sanctuary into a spaceship in the style of Star Wars. There will be games, crafts, stories, and lots of fun. And, for even a greater adventure, the kids who stay after will be able to get wet and cool off on our mega water slide. They will even eat before they leave. Moms love that! Whoever said there is no such thing as “a free lunch”? We plan to make a lot of friends next week. For more details, check out our website (you can even register online), and don’t forget to look for the VBS kids in the Independence Day parade as well.
These days, it seems that more people are looking for real answers than ever before. Parents and local leaders are searching for ways to instill the right values in their children before they get into the teenage years. Annual participation in a VBS or Christian camp is one way to do this. It is also a means by which your family can make a connection with a local church, even if it is only once per year. That way, should a life event occur where you recognize a need for more, the relationship and history are already in place so that church ministry can be a support to you if you need it. If your kids are grown, you might be able to volunteer in some way or make a donation to support the effort. I believe you will be glad you did.