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A week in Galilee
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Anonymous user Mon Aug 20, 2007 16:13:27 PDT
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0 responses 0 comments The value of children’s ministry is immense. Each year, many church volunteers spend months pouring over details and preparation to create a vibrant and refreshing atmosphere that welcomes children to a fun-filled week where they can learn basic Bible truths.
The Oaks Community Church, 10200 Campus Park Drive, recently hosted over 200 children each day for their vacation Bible school entitled “Galilee by the Sea.” Every child became part of an Israelite clan and visited the seaside playground for games, the synagogue where they learned about Jewish culture and worship, sang songs, and even ate snacks that reinforced the daily theme and lesson. A daily highlight was spending time in a Bible-times marketplace where they could experience some of the sights and smells of Galilee while kneading bread dough, tying fishing nets, tasting exotic fruit, making sandals and jewelry, petting live animals, and much more.
Even though most programs don’t run until summer vacation, preparation for Bible schools around Kern County often begin before Christmas, when eager coordinators choose their curriculum and begin planning. Networking with other churches and creatively utilizing resources play an important role in making these weeks successful.
Connecting with children is the prime focus of these Bible-based day camps, but there are many other layers of blessings beyond the daily time spent with the children.  Adult friendships are cultivated and people feel connected. Vacation Bible schools open many doors to practical use of talents and resources. Upon entering our church lobby earlier this summer one might have seen colorful tunics running off of sewing machines, painters designing backdrops, craft supplies being carefully sorted, and pop-up tents transforming into marketplace kiosks.
Detailed preparation is key to efficiently escorting masses of children through activities and for laying a platform for the message behind the fun — that they are loved, important, and that God has a plan for their lives. Ministering to children confirms belief in the future of our community.
Research confirms that children are more likely to choose to a relationship with God through Jesus if they are exposed to sound Bible teaching at a young age versus learning about it later in adolescence or adulthood.
The effects of ministry directed at children may not surface until many years down the road, but faith that the results will come is what fuels the passion for transforming a modern day building into a Galilean experience where kids can be blessed and encouraged in the Lord.

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