VBS directors gather for a bright year ahead

Forty-four leaders representing 32 churches came together for this year’s VBS Directors’ Conference at Royal Palms Baptist Church in Phoenix Feb. 7. It was an encouraging morning filled with practical training, fresh ideas and a shared passion for reaching kids with the gospel.

Attendees heard engaging presentations from Hannah Johnson, Kailee Rutledge, Valerie Swenson and Kelcey Fry. Leaders were introduced to this year’s VBS theme, explored how to cultivate a more evangelistic culture through VBS, learned practical ways to support children with special needs, and received helpful tips for effective VBS planning. Each session equipped directors and volunteers to lead with confidence and intentionality.

This year’s theme from LifeWay Christian Resources, Illumination Station, invites kids to experience “the brightest week of the year.” While many people claim to know about Jesus, many are still in the dark about who He truly is.

During Illumination Station, children will discover how light brightens, illuminates, reflects and reveals, all pointing them to the true LIGHT of the gospel. We are praying that churches across our state will shine brightly in their communities as they reach children with this powerful message.

If your church is planning to host VBS this year and you want to better equip your team, make plans to attend the State VBS Conference on April 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Royal Palms Baptist Church in Phoenix. This free training event will prepare leaders for every role, from being an excellent helper to confidently leading a class.

There will also be plenty of prizes given away. Any Arizona Mission Network church that registers in advance will receive $250 in store credit to use that day at the VBS store provided by MVMNT Bookstore. You can register your church today at azmn.org/vbs.