Loma Blanca VBS General Information

1. VBS will begin at 5:00 (mas o menos). First there will be a large group assembly with singing. Then age groups will divide. By the time you get your group settled, you will probably have 1-½ hours of VBS. The first and last nights may be shorter. Plan accordingly.

2. Every group will have the same story on the same day, but they should be made age-appropriate. Most groups will have the same main learning activity, but your group should decide on one or two other activities to have available. These should be short and uncomplicated. Perhaps you could make a poster, develop a series of questions for a competition, or teach the children a Bible verse. We also have some good coloring pages.

3. If you are not familiar with mission work, remember that simple activities such as coloring pages may bore a spoiled American kid, but in Loma Blanca, the children do not have drawers and closets full of coloring books and art supplies. They will enjoy coloring and will spend a lot of time making their artwork beautiful.  Even the adult men take great pride in producing colorful artwork.  (In other words, your activities do not have to be equal to a Hobby Lobby art class!!)

3. Remember, you are outside. It will be windy and dusty. No activity or craft should be too complicated or delicate. Most groups will be sitting on the ground and using a lapboard for writing or coloring.

4. For your craft project, please utilize materials we already own before purchasing things. Please check with Linda or Peggy about spending money!!!

5. Team members should communicate with one another and share in preparation of materials and taking responsibilities. 

6. Once we get to Loma Blanca, your primary task is to show that you care about the people there. If you are a non-Spanish speaking helper, you may be tempted to wander away from your group. Remember, just because you think you aren't communicating, your presence in the group and your attention to group members communicates much more than you can ever know. Sit with the children, not with another team member. Show interest in the lesson. Model good behavior! Assist with activities as part of the group, not as a spectator.

7. Begin to pray for your fellow team members, for our preparation and journey. Pray that the Lord will provide good weather for the VBS. Pray for the teachers from Loma Blanca, the pastors and their wives. Pray for the children and adults who will come to VBS. Pray that our presence will be a blessing and an encouragement to our Mexican brothers and sisters. I know they will be that to us!