Vacation Bible School has long been a cherished summer tradition in many churches, offering a vibrant and welcoming environment for children to learn about faith, build friendships and create lasting memories. For Bonney Lake Church, VBS 2024 didn’t just leave an impact on the children who attended — it became the starting point of a transformative journey for an entire family.
Bonney Lake Church's VBS adopted the "Thunder Island" theme that centered around a stranded stranger — a character who, throughout the week, learned to trust in God’s guidance. Beyond the plays, the program offered a mix of music, games, interactive Bible stories, crafts and delicious snacks, creating a fun and nurturing atmosphere for children.
Sara Cativo and Daniel Stout, parents of four young children, had been exploring faith and recently welcomed a newborn. Stout called the church to see if VBS would allow him to bring his newborn. Although specific activities for infants were not offered, he and his family were warmly invited to attend. They participated, immersing themselves in the program and the church’s welcoming community.
Though solidified through VBS, the couple’s connection with the church began even earlier. Months before VBS, Cativo and Stout came through Bonney Lake Church’s soup ministry — a monthly drive-through meal service started during the pandemic. The ministry, which offers meals like baked potatoes, chili and grilled cheese, and prayers with individuals as they wait for their meals to be delivered, draws a diverse group of individuals and families. Through these interactions, Cativo and Stout first encountered the warmth and kindness of the church.
Following VBS, Cativo and Stout sought a deeper connection with the Adventist faith. They visited Enumclaw Church and were embraced by the congregation. Their interest grew as they discovered the attached school and its community. After attending an evangelistic series hosted by Bonney Lake Church, both Cativo and Stout decided to be baptized, committing to their faith journey.
What made the difference for this family? “I think the fact that [Stout] got to be there, got to be immersed with us as a church and see that we cared about kids in the community, I really think that that helped connect them,” said Kaitlyn Herman, a Bonney Lake Church VBS leader.
Stories like Cativo and Stout highlight the profound impact of VBS. It’s not just a week of fun for children; it’s an opportunity for churches to connect with families, foster relationships and extend God’s love in tangible ways. As VBS season approaches, look outward. Invite your community to join the celebration and discover the transformative power of faith.
VBS teaches kids of all ages Bible stories that stick with them for life.
Games at VBS help kids learn to work together and have fun doing it.
Crafts and snacks are enjoyed by kids every night.
Bonney Lake Church's 2024 VBS theme is "Thunder Island," where a stranded stranger learns to trust God's guidance.
VBS brings Bible principles to life with interactive elements.
Daniel Stout (pictured) and Sara Cativo become members of the church through VBS.
Showing care for the kids of the community draws visitors like Cativo and Stout to the church.
