Vacation Bible School, widely known as VBS, is a happy program organized by churches for children, usually during school holidays. While it is most common in summer, many churches around the world hold it in other seasons such as winter or spring, depending on the local school schedule and weather. Mary E. Hamilton was the first to introduce Vacation Bible School (VBS) in India. Together with her husband Lester Hamilton, she arrived in India as a missionary in 1951 and began serving at the South Indian Bible Institute (now the South Indian Bible Academy). In 1952, they organized the first VBS program for 75 children. It all started with a small program in the United States and has now grown into a global sport with millions of children every year.
What makes VBS really unique is how it brings the entire community together. It’s not only about children having fun, it also involves planting seeds of faith, building friendships, and making every child feel seen, loved and valued. Volunteers, young leaders, parents and pastors can all create beautiful things hand-made. For many children, VBS is the first time they hear about Jesus, and for others, this is where they become deeper in their faith. As VBS continues throughout India and the world, joy is real, smiles are broad, and the message is clear, faith can be full of fun, exciting and life-changing. If you pass by a church full of joyful music and children wearing colorful t-shirts, you may witness the beauty of VBS.
Every day is filled with exciting activities surrounding the theme. Children start with lively worship songs and dancing, and then dive into fun Bible lessons, storytelling, short plays and interactive teaching. There are also outdoor games, hand-on crafts, memory verses and snacks – designed to help children understand and remember God’s love in a fun and meaningful way. Many VBS programs also include services that encourage children to help others and make a difference in the community.
Whether in a quiet church in India or a buzz hall in another part of the world, it is still a beautiful reminder that learning about faith is not necessarily boring – it can be loud, colorful, creative and heart-filled. This is a celebration of Jesus, the community, and it is also a stunning impact on the child’s birth.
The article was written by Nyatala Gayathri, a student at St. George’s College, and is internship with Deccan Chronicle
