VBS Frequently Asked Questions
What is VBS?
VBS stands for “Vacation Bible School”. It is a weeklong event where kids engage in lots of fun activities, games, and crafts. This year’s VBS is called “Who Is My Neighbor” Who Is My Neighbor? leads children on a journey to discover more about God’s great love. From looking at how to be a neighbor to diving into what it means to live out our faith, this interactive VBS series will lead children deeply into Bible stories focused on God’s care and compassion for neighbors close at hand and around the world.
When is VBS?
VBS is June 19-23 daily from 9:00 am- 12 pm, with lunch included.
Who can come to VBS?
All rising Kindergarteners through rising 5th graders are invited to participate. Older children (under 18) are welcome as youth assistant volunteers.
What will my child do when they are at VBS?
Have a lot of fun! Each day, your child goes to multiple group rotations that include games, small group time, teaching, and other fun activities. Our rotation includes fun skits that share God’s true Word. During small group time, your child will have a chance to hear and share the daily lesson and make new friends in a safe and loving environment. All rotations are equipped with well-trained volunteers who love Jesus! We’ll also provide lunch each day.
Can my child be with their friend or sibling?
Each VBS group is multi-age, meaning there is a child from multiple grades. We can not guarantee your child’s friend or sibling will be in the same group, however the groups do interact throughout the day.
I’ve registered my child, now what?
We will schedule (TBD) a pickup day where you receive a packet for your family that will include all the details on what will happen during the week. Here is what you’ll find in your packet:
●Your child’s t-shirt for the week (the child will wear it every day)
● Music download so the family can learn the music together
Where do I go when I get there?
VBS is held Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. VBS starts promptly at 9 AM, so please arrive a little early. Your child’s group leader will have a name tag for your child that they will turn in at the end of each day.
What do I bring?
Please make sure your child wears their VBS shirt every day. Make sure your child wears athletic shoes each day. We do a lot of walking and oftentimes the games we play can be energetic. Please leave all special items at home for risk of losing their special treasure!
My child has a food allergy. Will your lunch be safe for my child to eat?
The lunches for the week are typically (menu TBD):
Monday – Chicken Nuggets & Fries & Sliced Fruit
Tuesday – Pizza & Vegetables Snacks
Wednesday – Chicken Nuggets & Fries & Sliced Fruit
Thursday – Pizza & Vegetables Snacks
Friday – Family Picnic with Hamburgers & Hot Dogs
You are welcome to send lunch if your child would prefer something else.
I can’t pick up my child so can someone else do it for me?
We know lives get busy and complicated. If your child will be picked up by someone else, please email the Religious Education Office, or you can send a written note in with your child.
What about Safety?
We value safety and security. Here are some key ways we ensure that all kids are safe:
– All of our small groups are led by an adult who is passionate about sharing Jesus with children.
– The small group sizes are conducive to the amount of kids that are registered. All of our rooms adhere to a ratio of 1 adult and at least one youth helper per 10 children.
– Each volunteer is screened through an extensive Arlington Diocese Child Protection process.
– Children are checked into and out of their assigned groups each day
– Parents must check their children out at the end of the day
My child loves the VBS music! Can we have a copy of the songs?
Yes! We provide a download link for the music to each family and it can be picked up the Sunday before VBS starts with the Family Packet.
Will you take an offering and where does it go?
Yes, we will be collecting canned foods for the St. Lucy Project run by Catholic Charities.
