In 2014, Wrangell Church, situated on a small island in southeast Alaska, formed a Vacation Bible School team to reach the children of Bethel. The mission initiative has now become an annual event, marking 10 consecutive years of outreach to Alaskan youth.
The town of Wrangell is home to a little more than 2,100 residents. Within this community stands Wrangell Church, established in June 1966, with a current membership of 41. Despite its small size and remote location, this church has made a significant impact in Alaska.
Over the years, the VBS group has held programs in Bethel, Craig, Ketchikan and Wrangell. This year the team, led by Brooke Reynolds, VBS coordinator, returned to Bethel.
The theme of this year's VBS was, "The Good Shepherd," drawing inspiration from the parables of Jesus and Christ's Object Lessons. Although it was one of the smallest VBS teams, with a group of volunteers they successfully reached out to numerous children. Due to the team's size, they involved the children in the storytelling process by using puppets. Each child received a puppet character and the story was acted out by the children participating.
In addition to daily stories, games, crafts and snacks, the Wrangell team added unique elements to their VBS, such as providing a giveaway book and a prayer tree. This year, they selected God Said It: The Stories Of Jesus — book 12 by Bradley Booth. Children received this book upon registration and had the opportunity to contribute to the prayer tree by writing down their prayer requests or praises, which were then prayed for each day.
With each VBS experience, the team gains insights on how to enhance future outreach efforts. Nevertheless, three fundamental principles hold true: VBS doesn't need to be elaborate, it's not as challenging as it may seem and, most importantly, it can be incredibly enjoyable!
If you feel inspired to create your own VBS, Wrangell offers a blog with free materials and themes for your use. Explore more at wrangellsda.org/diy-vacation-bible-school.
Bethel kids happily display their VBS certificates.
Jackie Eilertsen sets up crafts for the children.
Wrangell Church members left to right: Brooke Reynolds, Stephanie Kowalske, Eilert Eilertsen and Jackie Eilertsen
VBS coordinator Brooke Reynolds (top) and volunteer Stephanie Kowalske (bottom)
Joy Anderson (left), Bethel Church member, smiles with Brooke Reynolds (right), VBS coordinator.
From left to right: Brooke Reynolds, Eilert Eilertsen and Jackie Eilertsen
Kids participate in craft time at VBS.
Kids and leaders act out the theme song at VBS.
