Thousands of churches nationwide are preparing Vacation Bible School (VBS), a longstanding staple of Christian children’s ministry that combines Bible teaching, music, games and crafts during summer break.
Origins of Vacation Bible School
Vacation Bible School traces its roots to the late 19th century.
In 1898, Mrs. Virginia Sinclair Hawes (often identified as Mrs. Walker Aylett Hawes), a member of Epiphany Baptist Church in New York City, started an “Everyday Bible School” for neighborhood children during the summer.
Hawes rented a beer hall on the city’s East Side to host the program aimed at reaching idle children with Bible stories and activities.
Earlier efforts included a daily Bible school, started in 1894 in Hopedale, Illinois, by Sunday school teacher D.T. Miles. In 1901, Robert G. Boville expanded the concept through the New York City Baptist Mission Society.
By 1922, Southern Baptist pastor Homer Grice launched a formal VBS program, and in 1924 the Baptist Sunday School Board (now Lifeway Christian Resources) established a dedicated VBS department.
Widespread Participation Across Denominations
Baptist churches, particularly Southern Baptist congregations, continue to lead in offering Vacation Bible School.
In 2025, more than 1.66 million people enrolled in VBS programs across reporting Southern Baptist state conventions, representing more than 9% growth from the previous year, per Lifeway Research.
Lifeway Christian Resources reports that its VBS curriculum reaches more than 2.5 million children and adults each summer through over 25,000 churches nationwide.
Many other Protestant denominations and independent churches also participate, including Lutheran, Methodist, and Presbyterian churches, as well as non-denominational congregations. Some Catholic parishes offer similar summer Bible programs.
Six in 10 American adults attended VBS while growing up, and nearly 70% of parents say they would send their children if a friend invited them, according to Lifeway Research.
Multi-Generational Reach
VBS has touched multiple generations. Many adults today recall positive memories from their own childhood attendance, with nine out of 10 reporting favorable experiences.
The program has operated for more than 125 years, spanning at least four to five generations of American families.
Most VBS programs target children ages 5 to 11, though many churches offer options for preschoolers (ages 3-4) and include youth as volunteers or participants. Some programs feature multi-generational or family components.
Children learn core Bible stories, memorize Scripture, study Christian values such as kindness and faith, and hear the gospel message. Curricula often center on a yearly theme with daily Bible lessons.
A standard VBS day lasts three to five hours and may include:
- Opening assembly with worship music and announcements
- Bible lessons and storytelling
- Rotational activities such as games, crafts, music, and snacks
- Small group discussions
- Closing prayer or review
Programs emphasize fun alongside teaching, with themed decorations, costumes, and skits common.
Who Runs Vacation Bible School
Local churches direct VBS, usually under the children’s ministry or education pastor. Volunteers, including parents, youth, and retired adults, handle teaching, crafts, and games.
Major publishers such as Lifeway, Gospel Light, and Concordia Publishing House provide ready-made curricula, music, and resources that many churches use.
As summer 2026 continues, churches across the country are actively hosting these programs to engage children and families with biblical teaching during the vacation season.
