Steps to Christ Church in Federal Way, Washington, hosted an innovative STEM Vacation Bible School, Aug. 10–14, 2025, under the theme “Imago Dei.”
Designed to combine science, technology, engineering and math with faith, the program gave children hands-on opportunities to explore creation while learning practical ways to live out the First Angel’s Message. Children rotated in groups, building teamwork and confidence.
Alexander Harmash, Steps to Christ Church pastor, said the goal was to help children see how scientific discovery reflects God’s image in humanity. “It’s not enough to create STEM projects,” said Harmash. “We want to connect scientific truths to the lessons God desires to impart.” Leaders opened and closed each day with worship and prayer, rooting experiments in scripture.
A diverse team of volunteers, including two engineers, a nurse, an accountant and a landscape architecture student, helped develop the program. Their vision was to show that every field of knowledge can be used to honor the Creator. Children were encouraged to explore, experiment and find joy in learning while searching for the God who made them curious by design.
Each day highlighted a scientist whose work was shaped by reverence for God. Six interactive stations offered different ways to learn. In the physics station, children played games to understand natural laws. Hydroengineering let them build a working hydraulic robotic arm, applying pressure and flow principles.
In the technology lab, they dismantled household items to learn how they function and then reassembled key parts. Anatomy lessons emphasized the wholeness of body, mind and spirit through dissections and microscope work. Mathematics uncovered fractals, patterns and compound growth. Architecture invited students to design and build models, linking creativity to the image of God.
Parents noticed how engaged their children were throughout the week. Organizers reflected that while traditional VBS has value, crafts alone may not hold every child’s attention. In contrast, STEM VBS offered projects that captivated participants and countered the pull of constant screen time.
“This program fully engaged the kids,” one parent said. “They came home excited every day, asking when they could do it again.” Parents enthusiastically requested that similar programs be offered in the future.
The event reached beyond the church community. Organizers reported that about 20% of participants came from non-Adventist backgrounds, showing the program’s potential as an evangelistic platform. By blending scientific exploration with biblical truth, the week gave children a foundation to navigate today’s academic and cultural environment while holding on to their faith.
For Steps to Christ Church, STEM VBS offered a clear way to proclaim the First Angel’s Message: Discovery, learning and creativity all glorify the Creator.
Each day highlighted a scientist who honored God through their work. Program staff included Iveta Harmash and pastor Alexander Harmash.
Children participate in an engineering workshop.
Rebecca, a participant of the architecture workshop, builds a model church.
Hands-on activities challenge children to think creatively.
The program is an evangelistic platform to serve community families.
The week was a success thanks to the time and dedication of all the support staff.
