Vacation Bible School - 2008

This is Vacation Bible School Week at First UMC. As usual, it is a special time for all who participate and it is wonderful to see the number of families that are present. We have a great group of volunteers who provide the leadership and are committed to making this a good experience for all. Once again I observe that this is a model of congregational leadership that we should follow more often in the life together. First, the core leaders seem to listen carefully to the needs of the people and tell the story within that context. Such as, having an evening event for all ages with a meal is our format. They study the curriculum and make sure the key points are truly the focus of learning and work collaboratively to call forth each volunteer’s gifts as they plan each year’s VBS. The director serves one year and the assistant becomes the director the following year. The retiring director serves as an advisor.

Our leaders know the value of good communication. From publicity to instructions, we all know what’s happening. Once again we have a number of persons from the community including several families who are vacationing in Myrtle Beach. Over the years, VBS has been the introductory visit for quite a few new members. Careful evaluation means some tweaking for the next year. I especially appreciate being able to fulfill the role as spiritual leader and to empower those who share their leadership gifts so generously. How can we duplicate this healthy pattern for successful ministry in other areas of our congregational life?