VBS has been so successful at our wonderful church that we are going on a mission trip in July to the projects to present VBS there. We've talked to the Center and about the only advice we've gotten is not to go overboard on the decorations since the kids aren't used to it and wouldn't notice much else. Has anyone worked in a VBS at the projects? Your insight into poor children's reactions, etc. would help. I rest assured that only those Jesus sends will go to teach. Except for treating them like any other of God's children, we don't have much to go on. Perhaps there is nothing else but if you have any experience in this, I'd like to hear from you. Karen

I agree about the decorations. It can be a bit overwhelming, especially considering that they are not critical to the message. Children who are disadvantaged love attention. Greet them and care for them as if they were your own children. Learn their names quickly, look them in the eye when speaking, and smile, smile, smile. They may have heard of Jesus, but you want them to see Jesus.

You might want to check out the "Down the Street and Around the World" materials as well as the Rickshaw Rally one. It won't require as much decorations, prep time, space, etc... as the Rally VBS. It's also geared more for "backyard Bible clubs" and mission-site VBS's.

Contact your associational office. They should have a preview copy available to look at.

OK, i am a member of our youth and i in charge of finding a theme and stuff 4 out mission trip. I am not going to lie i am scared of working with city kids in St.Louis and i know i am doing it 4 me but 4 God but if u have anything (what it is like, themes that have not been used much, what to do and say to the youth going that r kinda of scared , WHATEVER!!! this is your first Mission trip) PLEASE help if u can please e-mail me at jesusfreak2006_2000@yahoo.com God Bless!!!

I have been reading this thread since it was started, but I am not sure I can say this gracefully. Our church was planted 50+ years ago by a big church in a lower income neighborhood. Only a bit more recently than that, low income housing was constructed nearby. The people who live in our church's neighborhood are still among those in our town who have the lowest income, the smallest property, and drive the oldest cars.

Our church just completed our annual VBS. Monthly during the school year we have a Parents Night Out. Based on the participation we have from our neighbors who live in low income housing in these events, we have been asked by the local housing authority to participate in helping provide childcare for their events.

So with all due respect, here are my comments about your activity:

Please don't go to the projects. Go to the people. They have the same needs, desires, goals, and emotions as you do. Create relationships with them, love them as they are, minister to them even if they have a mess, especially if they are in a mess. Some of the people who live in these neighborhoods are evil people, just like some of those who live in upper-class neighborhoods. Most of them are not. Give them a chance. Think long term relationships and ask what needs are there that you can continue to meet after this one week of VBS. Work with the children. Go out for coffee with the parents. Or invite parents in to help with crafts, games, and/or refreshments. Get to know the moms and dads. By name. Pay a utility bill for them before their service is disconnected. Give them a job - employment if you are in a position to do so, or meet physical needs such as groceries, school clothes, school supplies, as they need it.

Don't assume they need it. Some of these people are financially doing just fine; their lives are in order. However, working at Wal-Mart or McDonalds doesn't pay enough to purchase the house of their dreams in the suburbs. They're getting by, but they are not wealthy. They are not part of the social system and don't need to be. Please don't insult them by making assumptions.

Many of those to whom we minister are unbelievers. And not surprisingly, they act like it! Some of the parents smoke and use foul language, the children misbehave, mothers don't pick up their child on time. Some parents do drugs and for a few weeks live at the detox center. The teenagers are so angry they act out in some way, and move a few blocks further away to the juvenile justice center. Back at home there are pieces that need loving care and attention, not judgment and condemnation.

Please evaluate why you are going there. Is it because you had a great event and you want to share it? Or is it because Jesus is calling you there and the Holy Spirit won't let go of you until you find a friend in that neighborhood? Is this a project or a passion?