Seekers in Sneakers: Discover Jesus!: 2024 Shine Curriculum VBS

Welcome to Seekers in Sneakers: Discover Jesus!, an interactive Vacation Bible School where children use their investigative skills to discover Jesus. Geocaching activities will challenge children to dig into the Bible to find the way to Jesus. This journey of discovery has many twists and turns, so children will learn to ask questions, work with others, shine their light in the world, follow Jesus’ example of serving others, and trust Jesus when things go wrong. Through worship and drama, Bible study, art and science explorations, and active games, children are invited to follow the example and teachings of Jesus in every place and every part of life. So grab your water bottle, your Bible, and your friends, because this is going to be a great adventure!

Key elements of faith formation found in Shine’s Vacation Bible School curriculum:

• Relationship building: As children arrive at VBS each day, small group leaders guide children in activities designed to build community and create a feeling of belonging.
• Gathered worship: Children of all ages gather to sing, pray, and watch a dramatic presentation of the Bible story.
• Spiritual practices: Spiritual practices are included each day, including music, Bible memorization, and different ways of praying.
• Centrality of the Bible story: The Bible story is shared and explored in multiple ways each day—through drama, scripture memorization, hands-on activities, music, full-body movement, writing, art, and reflection.
• Wondering questions: Children are invited to reflect on the Bible stories using open-ended wondering questions. These questions show a respect for children’s interpretations and their ideas.
• Discovery-based learning: Activities in the three response stations promote creative, discovery-based learning.
• Child-centered approach: Activities are child-centered and attend to individual learning styles. The curriculum materials anticipate the diversity of needs that children have.
• Invitation to respond: Children are challenged to take action that demonstrates care for others and for the world.