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A tradition for some, and a new experience for others, vacation Bible school (VBS) is a traditional summer pastime for local communities. Vacation bible school is a time during the early summer months designated to bring people of all ages together for some fun, fellowship, worship and praise, all while learning important life lessons. 

Walnut Street Church of Christ held its VBS June 18-21. Minister Charles Box said attendance was up this year. 

“There was a lot of excitement in the atmosphere,” Box said. “We had over 140 people in attendance each night.” 

Youth minister Noah Jones said the event theme was “The Battle belongs to the Lord.” Children studied different battles from the Bible, such as the story of David and Goliath, Gideon and the 300 men, Joshua and Jericho, and even Jesus and satan. Activities included storytime, arts and crafts, and music. 

“We had a great time, and our studies reminded us that we are in a great battle against satan and the world, but Jesus will always get the victory,” Jones said.

Southside Baptist Church selected a space theme for its vacation Bible school, held June 5-9. Director Jill Burt and the children were excited about all of the space themed activities. 

“We launched out on a cosmic quest, to learn how to shine Jesus’ light on to the world,” Burt said. “They learned from stories in the Bible, about how believers shine the light of Jesus.” 

Burt said the event was a great success, and the kids left smiling every day. Southside ended their VBS week with Camellia Sweet Treats and a waterslide. 

Butler Chapel A.M.E. Zion church, where Rev. Michael Evans is pastor, held its vacation Bible school on June 12-16. The theme for the week was “Following Jesus Changes the Game.” Youth director Lanetta Rudolph said children and volunteers had a wonderful time all week, even though bad weather caused them to miss a day. According to Rudolph, fewer youth attend  the church now than before, but church leaders continue hosting VBS for local children 

“We have to go out and recruit children from the community to join us,” she explained. 

Rudolph said she appreciates the parents who allowed their children to attend vacation Bible school at Butler Chapel. 

Rev. Gloria Warren, pastor of Indian Hill A.M.E. Zion church, grew up in Butler Chapel and shared live video on Facebook during VBS. As she walked throughout the historic building, she displayed all of the games, treats, decorations, and artwork at the event. 

“God wants us to enjoy, and be happy in Him,” she said. “It’s okay to have fun. The joy of the Lord is our strength.” 

Many games were played at Butler Chapel VBS, from monopoly to checkers. The children enjoyed bible story time, music, popcorn and movies, but the volunteers said the most important lesson of the week was on forgiveness.