This week, I sat in our worship center at North Oak for my daughter Esther’s preschool graduation, watching her beam with pride in her cap and gown. Her class walked across the stage one by one, and each child announced what they wanted to be when they grew up. As I shared this past Sunday, Esther wants to be a “pet-enarian”—which, we think, is her way of saying “veterinarian for pets only.”
Of course, as a dad, I was bursting with pride (and maybe a few tears). But as a pastor, I was also reminded how powerful moments like these can be. A preschool graduation is small, but it’s also a big deal, marking growth, transition, and the start of a new journey.
And it got me thinking: What if moments like this could happen inside our church—not just for five-year-olds, but for every child who walks through our doors?
That’s what our VBS is all about.
This summer (June 22-25) at both of our campuses, we have the opportunity to welcome hundreds of kids into spaces filled with laughter, music, stories, and most importantly—God’s love. These kids may not be graduating, but they are growing. They’re forming ideas about who they are, who God is, and what kind of life they’re meant to live.
And we get to be a part of that.
In my sermon this past Sunday, we talked about Joseph—someone with big dreams and plans for his life. But as we saw, life didn’t go the way Joseph expected. His plans were interrupted—again and again. What carried him through the chaos wasn’t knowing the future…it was trusting that God was with him and staying faithful to the next step.
Friends, that’s what serving at VBS is. It’s not about having all the answers or the perfect script. It’s simply about showing up, loving kids well, and helping them take their next step toward Jesus.
Esther’s preschool graduation reminded me that the seeds we plant today shape the stories of tomorrow. You may think you’re just passing out snacks or running a game. But you never know what God is planting in a child’s heart through you.
This year, I believe VBS can be a holy shift moment in the life of many kids—and in your life too. So I hope you consider joining us to serve. There are all kinds of roles we need filled to make VBS have the kind of impact we know it can have. Check out all the opportunities below.
Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or this would be your first time, there’s a place for you. And I promise—it’s worth it.
Let’s help this next generation discover the God who is with them—even when their plans change, their dreams evolve, and their path takes unexpected turns.
Peace,
Matt Fulmer
Lead Pastor, Good Shepherd
P.S. We are finishing up our Holy Shift series this week. I promise you don’t want to miss out…it’s shaping up to be a powerful morning!
