St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral Holds VBS

St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral at Kuttapuzha, Kerala held its annual Vacation Bible School from 25 April 2022 to 30 April 2022.

The VBS commenced with the prayer and blessing of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan who officially inaugurated the event with the lighting of the lamp.

Speaking on the occasion, he said to children, “When I look at you, I wish I could also be a small child like you. As a child I used to attend VBS and I used to really enjoy those moments. But in those days, if we had to attend VBS, we had to walk several miles and then travel by boat to get to church and travel the same distance to get back home. But these days, God has given you better facilities. So, make the most of this opportunity to learn God’s Word and grow in His ways”.

The theme of this year’s VBS was “Shield” and it was centered on the Lord’s Prayer to help children learn the meaning of the prayer and how to practically use this prayer in their lives.

Around 90 children attended the VBS. Each day’s sessions consisted of learning songs, bible stories, and the lives of Saints and children engaged in exciting crafts, music, games, and other fun filled and faith-based activities.

During the weeklong program, the children were taught how to look at the Lord’s Prayer as a shield, which protects them from danger – both seen and unseen, helps them overcome temptations and fears and makes them bold and courageous.

On the final day, the parents were invited to attend a special program where the children showcased their talents and God-given gifts and presented what they had learned during the week.

Daniel, 12 years old, said, “During this VBS, I made new friends and also met my school friends after the pandemic. The volunteers and teachers were very friendly. It was an awesome time. I love to take part in the next year VBS too.”

Abel, 11 years old, said, “I loved this VBS. I was so happy and felt so much energy. The songs and dances were amazing. Everyone was kind and helpful. I loved all the lessons that the teachers taught in the class. My favorite song was ‘Our father in heaven’. The song is meaningful.”

Jaden, 11 years old, said, “I loved this VBS. It was amazing; especially, the dances, class activities and craft. The stories of saints were also amazing. I learned many lessons from their lives. The VBS was educational as well as fun.”

This was the first of hundreds of VBS programs that will be held this year throughout different dioceses of Believers Eastern Church.