Early Release Day Fun: St. John’s Mini-VBS Brings Joy to Students

The annual Marty Party exploded with fun and faith at Zion Lutheran Church in Lexington on October 19th! Forget boring history lessons—this was a time of thrilling learning and unforgettable laughs!
Our On certain Early Release Days throughout the Lexington-Richland 5 School District, parents have a wonderful, faith-filled option for their children’s afternoon: a vibrant Mini-Vacation Bible School (VBS) hosted by St. John’s in Irmo. They are assisted by Peak-Springhill Parish (Mt. Olivet and Mt. Hermin)

This recurring event offers an enriching combination of learning, fun, and fellowship, making the early dismissal a highlight for young students.

A Delight in Drama

The heart of the Mini-VBS experience is the Bible story session. The afternoon kicks off with the reading of a classic Bible story by Pastor Michele Fischer, but the learning doesn’t stop there. The children immediately bring the story to life through acting!

What makes this activity unique is the enthusiastic repetition. The children act out the story—again and again and again!—with each child delighting in taking on every role, from the main character to the supporting cast. This interactive drama is a powerful way for them to internalize the lesson and story of the day.

Fellowship and Fun

The afternoon is packed with more than just acting. The Mini-VBS schedule ensures a balanced and engaging time:

  • Snacks: A chance to refuel and socialize after their energetic performance.
  • Crafts: Hands-on activities that often tie into the Bible story of the day.
  •  Games: Energetic group games to encourage teamwork and fun.

Parents drop off their children for an afternoon where every element—from the craft glue to the dramatic lines—is infused with positive fellowship. It’s a treasured time for children to connect with each other and their faith community.

Do you have a story to share? Send to deborah@scsynod.com

Middle School Retreat

January 23-25

Camp Kinard

What does it mean to live as a faith-full disciple? What are the actions or activities that help shape disciples on the journeys?

Join us for a weekend of learning more about faith practices, fun, and friendship!

Register Now!

https://forms.gle/nWvhiyRnqvvrtwMo6

Bible Reading Plans for Children and Youth

The Bible is more than just an old book—it’s the powerful, relevant, and true Word of God.

Reading the Bible can feel like a huge commitment, so I’ve put together a “plan”.

It’s designed to engage for youth by mixing things up daily—they will get a chunk of the Old Testament story, a passage from the New Testament (where they meet Jesus and the early church), and a section from the Psalms or Proverbs for daily wisdom.

This plan uses a 5-day-a-week schedule, giving you weekends to catch up, reflect, or just take a break!

The weekly plan for elementary children focuses on the main narrative and simplifying the daily readings into very small chunks. It directs children to core concepts like God’s power, love, and protection, using a 5-day reading schedule with a simple, clear lesson each week.

If you would like a copy of these plans to share with your congregational children and youth, email me at deborah@scsynod.com.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

CYFM Lunch Bunch

Ready to unlock new ideas and resources for your ministry?

BYOL (Bring Your Own Lunch) and join fellow CYFM Leaders for our Lunch Bunch session on the second Tuesday of the month, starting January 13th at 12 Noon.

We’ll swap ideas, grab fresh resources, and get immediate answers to make your ministry thrive. Hope to see you there!

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86907283680?pwd=kzT8at1aWtE84qjr90TWcWZ1doaL0w.1

Phone: (646) 558-8656
Meeting ID: 869 0728 3680
Passcode: 8037650590

CYFM LEADERS RETREAT

February 6-7 at Camp Kinard
Nurturing the Spirituality of our Children

RESOURCES

Need a service activity for your youth? Lutheran Disaster Response Carolinas has several projects (resulting from Helene) available. 

Chalking the Door

“Chalking the Door” is a short liturgy for marking our homes (and churches and/or youth rooms) with sacred symbols and asking God’s blessing upon those who live, work, or visit throughout the coming year. In this service, we mark our front or main entrance doors with chalk as a sign that we are inviting God’s presence into the places, relationships, and situations that we call home.

Chalking the Door: An Epiphany Tradition

3rd Tuesday Conversation – ELCAYMNet

Advent or Pre-Christmas

3rdTuesday Conversation

Tips For When You’re Grieving During the Winter Holidays

The pressures around the holidays can be even more challenging after the death of a family member. Here are some tips for navigating this time of year and a Holiday Plan Worksheet to help your families work through these decisions together.

Holiday-Tip-Sheet-and-Worksheet.pdf