NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Messengers to this year’s Southern Baptist Convention in Greensboro, N.C., enjoyed a first glimpse of LifeWay’s 2007 Vacation Bible School themes.
“Game Day Central: Where Heroes Are Made” is the main 2007 VBS theme published by LifeWay Christian Resources, an entity of the Southern Baptist Convention. The curriculum will allow students to “get into the game” with an all-access pass to the Worship Rally Arena and Crafts Fan Zone.
As participants prepare for the big game, they will learn the importance of following God’s plan for their lives and focusing on Jesus in order to become heroes both on and off the field.
The Scripture focus for the “Game Day Central” line is Hebrews 12:1-2, “Run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith” (HCSB).
“Game Day Central: Where Heroes Are Made” is designed for all ages, from babies to adults, and follows a traditional VBS schedule with three-hour sessions throughout a weeklong summer program.
“For some this is a good way to close this year’s VBS –- an invitation to next year’s,” said LifeWay childhood ministry director Mary Katharine Hunt.
For churches that need a little more flexibility with their VBS curriculum, LifeWay’s second line, “Club VBS: Jungle Jaunt” is an option. This program will take kids on a trek through the depths of the Amazon jungle as they discover the One True God with VBS teachers as their river guides. The curriculum focuses on Psalm 145:1-2 as its theme: “I exalt You my God the King, and praise Your name forever and ever. I will praise You every day; I will honor Your name forever and ever” (HCSB).
Club VBS is designed to adapt to multiple schedules so it can be used during a traditional summer week, school breaks, mission trips or day camps among other times. Churches purchase a pack of Club VBS materials that includes everything necessary to plan, promote and host the event.
“Whether you choose Game Day Central or Jungle Jaunt, the key is to emphasize the evangelistic aspect of VBS,” Jerry Wooley, LifeWay’s VBS ministry specialist, said, pointing out that as many as 28 percent of all Southern Baptist baptisms come as a direct result of VBS. “What else would you do next summer that will have as much evangelistic potential as VBS?”
On Aug. 1, LifeWay will launch a Web site, www.lifeway.com/vbs, that will offer additional information and resources related to both VBS lines. Messengers to the SBC received some information and promotional materials to take back to their churches. The complete curricula will go on sale Dec. 1. Selected “Game Day Central” promotional materials will be available Oct. 1.
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