In-person VBS returns after two years

“Joy. That's the word that volunteers, parents, and staff continue to use to describe the week,” said Sharla Jolly, HPUMC’s Pastor to Kids and Families. “You can hear it in the laughter of kids during our morning worship and Bible story. You can see it in their faces while playing games and working on crafts.”

With a theme of “Press Play,” this year's VBS helped children grow in confidence as they began to see themselves the way that Jesus does. From June 21 to 24, our kids learned that they are loved, they belong, and they make a difference.

It was a huge success in the eyes of Sharla Jolly. “Something very special happened this week,” she said, "as kids and volunteers built relationships with each other and learned about Jesus' greatest command—love one another as I have loved you.”

Two former teachers, Betty Vaughan and Peggy Majni, were part of the more than 100 youth and adult volunteers who helped make this amazing week possible. They were excited to volunteer as leaders for one of the groups and can’t wait until their grandchildren are old enough to participate.

When asked what their group of children really enjoyed, they mentioned music and art.

“Lots of the kids’ favorite part has been the art project,” said Peggy, “because they’re making something to keep.”

Betty shared that VBS creations are often treasured, admitting, “I still have VBS projects that my kids made.”

We’re already looking forward to next year’s VBS when we’ll be able to open registration to even more kids!