Gospel for Asia-Supported Workers Holding 7,500 Vacation Bible Schools
Workers supported by Gospel for Asia (GFA) are holding 7,500 Vacation Bible Schools (VBS) across Asia this summer, teaching children important values, including respect and love for parents and friends as well as personal discipline through a variety of activities such as songs, skits and crafts.
“Vacation Bible School is an inviting place for children to come during the summer,” said K.P. Yohannan, founder and international director of GFA. “There, they learn solid values through fun, educational activities, all while being taught that they are precious and loved by the God of the universe.”
VBS typically begins with the support of church pastors. Each program has a theme — this year’s is “New Beginnings” — and classes are formed according to age group. VBS classes are well-organized and are conducted by people who have been given special training to teach, in collaboration with local Sunday School teachers. Typically, VBS fills entire days and are generally a week long.
On the first day of the program, each child is given an age-appropriate VBS book filled with stories, games and songs. GFA-supported workers guide each program so each child’s unique gifts are highlighted through enjoyable classes, skits, puppet shows and competitions. Teachers encourage the students to continue to develop their gifts as they grow.
The schools also supply snacks and juice each day provided by the church. On the last day, each child receives a VBS certificate and is given the opportunity to participate in a presentation for their parents by demonstrating the songs and dances they learned and showcasing the crafts they made.
To date, more than 6,000 VBS programs have been conducted. VBS is held over several months and is on schedule to exceed program attendance of 231,713 children in 2015.
About Gospel for Asia
GOSPEL FOR ASIA has – for more than 30 years – provided humanitarian assistance and spiritual hope to millions across Asia, especially among those who have yet to hear the Good News. Last year, this included more than 75,000 sponsored children, free medical services for more than 180,000 people, 6,000 wells drilled, 11,000 water filters installed, Christmas presents for more than 400,000 needy families, and spiritual teaching available in 110 languages in 14 nations through radio ministry.
(Source: Christian Newswire)
