Thousands of churches nationwide are preparing for Vacation Bible School (VBS), a longstanding staple of Christian children’s ministry that combines Bible teaching, music, games, and crafts during summer break.

History of Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School traces its roots to the late 19th century. In 1898, Mrs. Virginia Sinclair Hawes, a member of Epiphany Baptist Church in New York City, started an “Everyday Bible School” for neighborhood children during the summer.

Earlier efforts included a daily Bible school, started in 1894 in Hopedale, Illinois, by Sunday school teacher D.T. Miles. In 1901, Robert G. Boville expanded the concept through the New York City Baptist Mission Society.

Growth and Impact

By 1922, Southern Baptist pastor Homer Grice launched a formal VBS program, and in 1924 the Baptist Sunday School Board (now Lifeway Christian Resources) established a dedicated VBS department. Baptist churches, particularly Southern Baptist congregations, continue to lead in offering Vacation Bible School.

In 2025, more than 1.66 million people enrolled in VBS programs across reporting Southern Baptist state conventions, representing more than 9% growth from the previous year, per Lifeway Research. Lifeway Christian Resources reports that its VBS curriculum reaches more than 2.5 million children and adults each summer through over 25,000 churches nationwide.

Many other Protestant denominations and independent churches also participate, including Lutheran, Methodist, and Presbyterian churches, as well as non-denominational congregations. Some Catholic parishes offer similar summer Bible programs.

Six in 10 American adults attended VBS while growing up, and nearly 70% of parents say they would send their children if a friend invited them, according to Lifeway Research. VBS has touched multiple generations, with nine out of 10 adults reporting favorable experiences.

Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.