Story courtesy Jillian Rathke.
Hingham – Hingham Congregational Church is excited to announce a fresh and transformative approach to its annual Vacation Bible School (VBS), set to launch this summer. While VBS has long been a cherished tradition in Christian communities, the church’s new program promises to redefine the experience by centering its curriculum around the theme of compassion.
For decades, VBS has provided children with a joyful environment to learn about faith, connect with their peers, and develop a deeper understanding of Christianity. This year, Hingham Congregational Church aims to elevate this experience by integrating the innovative curriculum, "Changing the World with Loving Kindness," from Illustrated Ministry. This program focuses on instilling a culture of compassion within the hearts and minds of young participants, encouraging them to view the world through the lens of kindness and empathy.
"At a time when the division and hurt in the world can feel overwhelming, families are expressing a desire for faith communities to partner them in preparing kids to engage the world differently," said Bri Doty, Director of Faith Formation at Hingham Congregational Church, UCC. "More than stories in a book, we’re seeking to connect the story of God’s love to our lives today in practical, tangible ways.”
The "Changing the World with Loving Kindness" curriculum encompasses engaging activities, crafts, and discussions designed to help kids learn practical ways to show compassion in their daily lives. Children will explore topics such as caring for one’s self, being a good neighbor, and making a positive impact in their communities. With stories and lessons drawing from biblical teachings, participants will discover how they can embody the principles of loving-kindness in real-world situations.
A highlight of this year's VBS will be the community service projects that allow participants to apply what they’ve learned. In partnership with local organizations, children will engage in hands-on activities that promote outreach and support for those in need, reinforcing the message that even small acts of kindness can lead to greater change.
Enrollment for the vacation Bible school is now open, and the church warmly invites families from Hingham and surrounding communities to register. Sessions will run from August 10 to 14, with activities designed for children from preK through fifth grade.
Hingham Congregational Church is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere where children can freely express their faith and learn about compassion as a cornerstone of Christian living.
For more details about the innovative Vacation Bible School program or to register, visit https://hccucc.com/vbs-registration-2/ or contact Bri, the Director of Faith Formation, at Bri@HCCUCC.com
Join us this summer as we embark on a journey to change the world — one act of loving kindness at a time!