Vacation Bible School
What:
Vacation Bible School is a week long celebration of faith. Each day opens and closes with prayer as well as high energy music and dancing, and skits. A daily Bible point is learned throughout each day as crews visit different stations where they enjoy Bible adventures, outdoor games, crafts and snack. Since 2008, each year has a theme through which lessons about Jesus Christ are shared. Recent themes include Stellar 2023: Shine Jesus’ Light; Scuba 2024: Diving into Friendship with God, and True North 2025: Trusting Jesus in a Wild World.
The theme for 2026 is Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God.
When:
VBS takes place for one week each year in late July, Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 12 Noon. Exact dates are announced in the Parish Bulletin and Parish Newsletter. VBS registration opens in April, announced online through the Parish Bulletin and Newsletter, you can also contact the St Mary’s Religious Education Office for more info.
2026 Dates are July 20-24.
Who:
VBS is open to children entering Kindergarten through 6th grade. Children must be five years old by September 1. Childcare for those under 5years old is available only to the children of volunteers.
Volunteers are needed as Leaders for crews of up to 8 children, and Station leaders leading Bible Stories, Crafts, Outdoor Games and Snacks. Teens entering Grade 7 and up, and Adults are invited to volunteer.
CORI and Virtus/Protecting God’s Children training are required for volunteers over 18 years old. Please see the Volunteer Compliance page for more information.
Registration is limited to 100 child participants.
Cost:
Fee of $75/child or $200/family max is due with registration. Payment is accepted in the form of check payable to St Mary’s Parish or Venmo @StMarys-Holliston. If using Venmo be sure to reference VBS or Vacation Bible School in your note.
Fees are waived for the children of adult volunteers who are available for the full week. Scholarship is available if the registration fee is a hardship. Fees cover VBS supply costs, including a t-shirt for each child. Music for the week is available to purchase for a $5 fee.
Contact:
For further information please e-mail the St. Mary’s VBS team at [email protected].