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transcript
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Parable of the Sower
PROGRAM GUIDE
ReNewProgram Guide: Parable of the Sower
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Unless marked otherwise, scripture quotations are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
ReNew Music CD ℗©2010 sparkhouse. All rights of the performers and owners of these works are reserved. CD and sheet music may be reproduced for local ReNew use only. Unauthorized copying, hiring, lending, public performance, and broadcasting of this recording prohibited. For permission to make copies at other times or for other purposes, contact sparkhouse via email: info@wearesparkhouse.org or mail: sparkhouse, Attn: Permissions, 2800 Lyndale Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55408.
ReNew Program Guide Binder:
Printed on 100% post consumer waste recycled paper using UV ink. Recyclable.
ReNew Music CD/ ReNew Program DVD: Recyclable through electronics recycling only. Please visit www.epa.gov for links to recycling in your area.
ReNew Publicity Posters: Printed on 100% post consumer fiber using soy ink. Recyclable.
ReNew Banner: Manufactured using 60% recycled paper/30% sawdust/10% polyester. Printed using soy ink. Biodegradable.
ReNew Planting Pack: Packaged with 100% post consumer waste recycled paper using soy ink. Recyclable.
ReNew Bible Books:
Printed on 100% post consumer waste recycled paper using soy ink. Recyclable.
RENEW FAMILY TREE
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
S pa r k h o u S e T e a mRachel AndersonBethany StolleLaurel SeelingTim Paulson
V i d e o T e a mLogan WangAaron ChristopherJared Neher
d e c o r aT i n g T e a mJodie NybergSarah KleppeHeidi EspositoJan ElsberryKathy JacksonPam BrettingenRachel SmithSasha AndreevSpecial thanks to Wayzata Community Church
W r i T i n g T e a mMelanie Heuiser HillMarcie OltmanLiz LeachApril RustLou CarlozoHeidi FerrisNate HougeAlia MortensenRyan MarshAmi VoeltzSpecial thanks to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
r e V i e W i n g T e a mRyan Marsh Ami VoeltzRozenia FullerSusan MullinDenise StrommeJane McBrideMark JacksonCraig GoodwinTeresa SaylesAnnette Drewes
m u S i c T e a mMark WeilerYour Neighborhood Trio
Dan SchwartzBrian RoesslerSteve Roehm
e d i T o r i a l T e a mVicky GoplinDouglas SchmitzJill LaffertyMargaret Ellsworth
a r T a n d d e S i g n T e a mJoe VaughanAlisha LofgrenChris DyrudJessica HillstromSpunk Design Machine
Lucas RichardsSteve Marth
Using clotheslines instead of dryers will cut your residential energy bill by 5%.
ReNe w BaSicSW h a t i s r e n e w ? 3
W h e r e d o e s t h e B i b l e F i t i n ? 4
T h e o l o g y o f r e n e w 4
r e n e w V B S d a i l y T h e m e s 5
B i b l e B a c k g r o u n d : J e s u s ’ p a r a b l e o f t h e S o w e r 6
a d a y a t r e n e w 7
r e n e w a t a g l a n c e 7
r e n e w r e s o u r c e s 9
h o w i s r e n e w g r e e n ? 1 2
l o w - W a s t e p l a n n i n g 1 2
g e t t i n g r e a d y t o r e n e w 1 4
d a y s 1–5 a t a g l a n c e 1 4
r e n e w r o t a t i o n S c h e d u l e 19
S t a f f i n g u p 2 0
S t a f f J o b d e s c r i p t i o n s 2 1
e q u i p p i n g Yo u r V B S S t a f f 2 4
r e n e w V B S S e t u p c o n s i d e r a t i o n s 2 5
ReNe w cURRicULUMd a y 1 3
d a y 2 5 3
d a y 3 101
d a y 4 1 4 7
d a y 5 19 5
aPPeNDiXF o r m s a n d Te m p l a t e s a
d e c o r a t i n g g u i d e B
S h e e t m u s i c c
m a s t e r S u p p l y l i s t d
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Houseplants are very beneficial to indoor air quality—they produce oxygen and balance indoor humidity, producing air that is more like the air outside.
renewBaSicS
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
In Genesis 1:28 God tells the humans to have “dominion” over the earth. A better translation for the Hebrew word behind “dominion” is “to care for” the earth.
3
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
what is renew?
what is ReNew?Welcome to ReNew: The Green VBS™!
Across the church, the call to care for creation has been growing. While some churches have started green teams, planted community gardens, and led community efforts to go green, others are struggling to know where to begin. And that’s where ReNew comes in!
ReNew is an environmentally-focused VBS program that inspires kids and adults to grow in faith, have fun, and change the world as they practice stewardship of creation!
You can still expect many of the things you love about VBS—kids learning about Jesus, exploring God’s Word, singing and celebrating, and engaging different intelligences—but we have modified and simplified the program to make it green, centered on stewardship of creation, and action-oriented for a big impact on the participants, your community, and the world.
r e n e w l e a r n i n g m o d e lReNew uses a modified rotation model. That means kids rotate through Self, Community, and World activity sites each day, where they explore what the Bible story and creation care mean for their everyday lives—and for all creation around the globe. Each activity site incorporates a multiple-intelligences approach to learning, which means kids experience the Bible story using all five senses and live out a call to care for creation through service-oriented activities.
a g e l e v e l sReNew is designed for kids in preschool through grade 6, with activities specifically developed for the following age groupings:
Preschool: • Play. The youngest kids at VBS meet with the whole group for Gather and Send activities to kick off and wrap up the day, but the rest of their time is spent in a self-contained preschool classroom. Because preschoolers learn through imaginative exploration, free play is an important part of the preschool activity site.
Lower elementary:• Explore. Kids in Kindergarten-Grade 2 begin and end their day with the whole group for Gather time before rotating through activity sites and wrapping up the day with a large group Send time. Activity site options for Lower Elementary don’t require reading fluency.
Upper elementary: • Discover. Kids in Grades 3-6 celebrate with the whole group for Gather and Send times and rotate through activity sites during the rest of the VBS day. Upper Elementary activities build on kids’ wider understanding of their impact on themselves, their communities, and the world.
all Kids:• Impact. Ideal for small and large VBS programs, All Kids activities are designed to work for groups that include kids from Kindergarten-Grade 6. Recognizing the wide age and ability span, these activities are designed to get kids working together and helping one another.
These groupings offer plenty of flexibility to structure your VBS into individual or mixed-age groups.
a c t i o n - o r i e n t e dOne of the best ways to grow in faith is to put faith into action and see the results. That’s why many of the ReNew activities have an outward focus toward service with and in your local community and the world. Kids will “think globally and act locally” every single day!
4 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
where does the bibLe fit in?
where Does the Bible Fit in?T h e o l o g Y o F r e n e WGod’s creation is a gift we all share. We all live in it together and depend on it together. Caring for it—together—is both a good work and collective act of faith. The Bible is filled with stories and teachings that reveal our dependence on God through the bounty of the earth. In fact, you could hardly tell the story of the chosen people or hear one of Jesus’ parables without the water, trees, wilderness, animals, and weather that form their backdrop. ReNew weaves together this rich natural imagery with engaging activities kids love, resulting in a deeper, more memorable experience of the Word.
ReNew VBS focuses on one story, Jesus’ Parable of the Sower, so kids can explore this parable in-depth, rather than trying to learn multiple non-consecutive stories over a short period of time. Digging into the story from the perspectives of Self, Community, and World also allows kids to relate to the text and build a relationship with the Bible.
Each day at ReNew, kids hear the entire Bible story, but then focus on one section of it to discover what the passage means for them and how it relates to caring for God’s creation.
Finally, the activities in ReNew are centered in stewardship. Kids learn, create, and do things that change their world. Their faith is put into action and impacts the wider community.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.5
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
DAY
ON
ED
AYTW
OD
AYTH
REE
DAY
FOU
RD
AYFI
VE
DAILY THEME
PLAN
TIN
G SE
EDS
“a s
ower
wen
t ou
t to
sow
…”
TAKI
NG
ROOT
Path
& b
irds
GROW
ING
rock
y Gr
ound
FACI
NG
CHA
LLEN
GES
thor
ns
LIVI
NG
TOGE
THER
Good
soi
l
DAILY ECO-
QUESTION
Why
do
peop
le
plan
t see
ds?
Wha
t do
seed
s ne
ed to
take
root
?W
hat d
o se
eds
need
in
orde
r to
grow
?
Wha
t cha
lleng
es
crea
tion?
Wha
t hap
pens
w
hen
crea
tion
is in
har
mon
y?
DAILYSPIRITUAL QUESTION
Why
doe
s Go
d pl
ant s
eeds
?W
hat a
re m
y sp
iritu
al ro
ots?
Wha
t do
I nee
d in
or
der t
o gr
ow?
Wha
t cha
lleng
es
my
fait
h?
Wha
t hap
pens
w
hen
my
head
, ha
nds,
and
hea
rt
are
in h
arm
ony?
DAILYTAGLINE
God’
s lo
ve is
a
seed
in m
e.Go
d’s
love
take
s ro
ot in
me.
God’
s lo
ve is
gr
owin
g in
me.
the
love
of J
esus
he
lps
me
face
ch
alle
nges
.
we
live
toge
ther
in
God
’s lo
ve.
where does the bibLe fit in?
ReN
ew
VB
S D
aiL
Y T
HeM
eSM
ARK
4:1-
9: P
arab
le o
f the
sow
er
6 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
B i B l e B a c k g r o u n d : J e S u S ’ pa r a B l e o F T h e S o W e r ( m a r k 4 :1 - 9)
B e h i n d T h e S c e n e S : a b o u t t h e p a r a b l e o f t h e S o w e rJesus told parables to teach people about God’s loving reign and to turn people’s hearts toward God. Parables are simple stories that often have a surprising twist. People were familiar with the agricultural themes Jesus spoke of because farming was a common practice everyone depended on. Farming businesses and families don’t survive unless the sower is good. A common sowing practice was to walk along with a bag of seeds, take a handful, swing an arm’s arc, and throw the seed across a swath of ground. A yield of 10-15 times the seed sown would be good; today growers might expect a yield of 40 times or more. Farming is always a risk. No matter what you do, the crop doesn’t always come in. Soil quality, rocks, weeds, birds, and sunlight are all important variables. But don’t expect the comparisons Jesus makes to match neatly. Parables aren’t tidy. They make you think and invite you to listen.
T h e B i g g e r p i c T u r e : W h a t c h r i s t i a n s S a yJesus compares the seed that is sown to the word that is spoken. This “word of God” can mean several things. Jesus Christ is the Word of God incarnate through whom all Creation was created (Genesis 1, John 1) and is re-created in his life, death, and resurrection. The Bible is also the Word of God because Scripture reveals Jesus Christ and because God’s Spirit speaks to us through Scripture. When we proclaim the good news about Jesus Christ, that is the Word of God too. Farming is a good image for exploring how God’s Word grows in the world. We share in proclaiming God’s Word, but we cannot control who hears it or how the Word works in those who hear it, and it may work in us in ways we don’t expect.
e c o l o g Y a n d c h r i S T i a n i T Y: m a k i n g t h e c o n n e c t i o nIt’s true that this parable is not speaking directly to 21st-century environmental concerns, but this passage is asking us to listen deeply to Jesus as he shares God’s dream of reconciliation for the whole world. The beginning of Genesis tells us two important things: 1. All of Creation is good and loved by God; 2. The Creation God made and loves is given to us to care for. Following Jesus means showing love—not only to our neighbors and not only to our enemies—but to all of God’s Creation: plants and forests, rivers and ocean, air and earth, animals and people. In this way, God is graciously inviting us to be co-creators in the renewing of the earth.
T h e m a i n i d e a : i n a n u t s h e l lIt’s important for us to listen to Jesus’ stories because that’s how God’s love, the gospel, is planted within us. When God’s love takes root and grows up within us we have more than enough love to face hard challenges and share with others, including God’s creation.
where does the bibLe fit in?
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.7
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
gaTh
er
wha
t will
kid
s do?
Pr
epar
e fo
r the
da
y th
roug
h si
ngin
g, le
arni
ng
the
Bibl
e st
ory,
co
llect
ing
the
Mis
sion
Mom
ent
offe
ring,
and
be
ginn
ing
the
Dai
ly R
itua
l.
Send
wha
t will
kid
s do?
Ce
lebr
ate
the
day
by c
ompl
etin
g th
e D
aily
Rit
ual,
refl
ecti
ng o
n th
e da
y’s
acti
viti
es,
sing
ing
song
s,
and
choo
sing
a
ReN
ew It
! Cha
l-le
nge
to h
elp
carr
y V
BS h
ome.
Gath
er
ç
ç
ç
ç
ç
preS
choo
la
CtiV
itY
site
wha
t will
kid
s do
? Ex
perie
nce
the
Bibl
e st
ory
and
expl
ore
crea
tion
thr
ough
free
pla
y,
and
acti
viti
es o
rient
ed a
roun
d th
e se
lf, c
omm
unit
y, a
nd w
orld
.
Snac
kSw
hat w
ill k
ids
do?
Eat (
and
mak
e) s
nack
s w
hile
als
o le
arni
ng w
here
food
com
es fr
om.
Wor
lda
CtiV
itY
site
wha
t will
kid
s do
? Le
arn
abou
t all
crea
tion
—fr
om t
he p
eopl
e an
d pa
rts
we
see
ever
y da
y, o
nce
in a
w
hile
, and
nev
er.
com
mun
iTY
aCt
iVit
Y si
te
wha
t will
kid
s do
? En
coun
ter t
he p
art o
f cre
atio
n w
e ca
ll co
mm
unit
y an
d re
cogn
ize
God
at w
ork
in o
ur
rela
tion
ship
s w
ith
one
anot
her.
SelF
aCt
iVit
Y si
te
wha
t will
kid
s do
? D
isco
ver w
hat e
ach
pers
on
can
do t
o gr
ow in
fait
h an
d ca
re fo
r cre
atio
n.
gam
eSw
hat w
ill k
ids
do?
Play
gam
es t
o ac
tive
ly le
arn
abou
t cr
eati
on a
nd t
he B
ible
sto
ry.
a daY at renew
a Da
y at
ReN
ewre
neW
aT
a gl
ance
8 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
a daY at renew
r e n e W aT a g l a n c e
m i s s i o n m o m e n twhat will kids do? Kids offer gifts of money or requested items (school supplies, non-perishable foods, and so forth) during each day’s Gather time.
why is this important? Kids and adults live out caring for creation by sharing with others. Look for local opportunities that best meet the needs of your local community and congregation’s ministry.
renew tip: Check with a pastor or community leader for mission options in your area. For information about larger charities, use an online charity evaluation tool like charitynavigator.org. You can also visit the ReNew VBS website (wearesparkhouse.org/renew) to connect with other VBS Directors and share Mission Moment ideas.
d a i l y r i t u a lwhat will kids do? Using their Planting Packs, kids plant seeds each day.
why is this important? As kids explore Jesus’ Parable of the Sower each day, they become sowers themselves. Planting seeds—literally and figuratively—grounds kids in the day’s Bible story and helps them grow in faith.
Here’s how the Daily Ritual works:
Gather: • Kids cut off part of their Parable of the Sower Bible Books and create a small seed pot. At the same time, they engage in discussion with their small group to prepare for the day.
send:• Kids complete their Daily Ritual by spooning a few heaps of “good soil” into the seed pot and planting a seed or two for the day from their ReNew Planting Pack.
at home:• Kids bring their seed pots home. By the end of the week, five seed pots promise seedlings that sprout and grow into a “pizza garden” with tomatoes, basil, onions, oregano, and peppers to top a yummy pizza!
renew tip: The Daily Ritual seeds can grow in a variety of environments. If the seedlings can’t be planted outdoors until the next spring because of your climate, encourage kids to nurture them on a windowsill or patio.
renew tip: For suggestions on how to set up the Daily Ritual, see page 25.
r e n e w i t ! c h a l l e n g ewhat will kids do? During the Send time, kids pick a challenge from their Bible Books—something they can do to carry the lesson beyond VBS and care for God’s creation. The next day, the entire group shares what the kids have done and celebrates how the group is growing by posting ReNew It! Challenge Medallions in their church.
why is this important? ReNew VBS is about caring for creation and putting faith into action. The ReNew It! Challenges get kids renewing at home and helps everyone see the change kids are making in the world.
renew tip: Locate the pdf titled Medallion Cutouts.pdf or page A-8 in the Program Guide appendix. Make copies, cut out the ReNew It! Challenge Medallions, and have kids hang them at your church each time they complete a challenge for a great visual display of faith in action.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.9
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
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renew resoUrCes
ReNew ResourcesReNew has a streamlined set of resources so you can focus on planning a great VBS—not ordering stuff from a catalog. Here’s a breakdown of all the ReNew products.
renew Program Guide: This online Program Guide contains all the information the director needs, shepherd and leader guide curriculum for each day of VBS, templates and forms to promote ReNew in your church, sheet music for all the ReNew songs, and decorating tips.
renew binder: The binder keeps your program guide organized. It is make of recycled cardboard and has been printed using soy-based ink. Plus, the ReNew Program DVD and ReNew Music CD are included in the binder to keep everything in one place and to reduce packaging.
renew tip: Hold a ReNew VBS training session for your shepherds and leaders, and give them their lesson materials in advance. Copy the lessons on recycled paper, using both sides of the page, and recycle the lesson pages afterward.
renew Program dVd: The segments on this DVD introduce the ReNew VBS program, provide a short promotional clip to get your congregation excited about VBS, and include 8 decorating segments—featuring Sasha Andreev of HGTV’s Decorating Cents and Curb Appeal—that will help you transform your church for ReNew.
renew tip: If you will be transforming your church environment for ReNew VBS, check out the decorating segments on the ReNew Program DVD for inspiration and tips for decorating with recycled, renewable, and reusable materials.
renew Music Cd: With vocal and instrumental-only versions, the reproducible ReNew Music CD is a great way to get kids moving during the Gather and Send times, to play in the background at activity sites, and to copy and send home with kids to keep VBS going long after the week is done. The ReNew Music CD includes 12 songs—featuring both new songs created just for the program, as well as “recycled” songs that are VBS favorites with a little twist.
10 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
renew resoUrCes
renew Publicity Posters: These three posters are made of recycled paper and printed on both sides using soy-based inks. Hang up one side to advertise ReNew VBS, and then flip them around to serve as activity site signs once VBS begins!
renew banner: Hang this banner indoors or outdoors to promote your VBS—and then flip it around to display the “Welcome” side during your ReNew VBS week. Printed on biodegradable fabric, the banner is extremely durable but still earth-friendly. For an even “greener” approach, keep it up to welcome people even after VBS is over.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.11
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
renew resoUrCes
r e s o u r c e s f o r k i d s
renew bible book: Printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks, each Bible Book illustrates Jesus’ Parable of the Sower in an age-appropriate way, offers reflections and challenges for kids, and includes a “planting strip” section that kids cut out each day to create a seed pot for their Daily Ritual. Bible Books are available for Preschool, Lower Elementary (Kindergarten-Grade 2), and Upper Elementary (Grades 3-6) age groupings.
renew Planting Pack: During the daily ritual, kids will plant seeds from the ReNew Planting Pack to start a “pizza garden” (tomatoes, basil, onion, bell pepper, and oregano) that they can grow either at church or at home with their families. The seeds can be easily grown in the ground, in the kitchen, or on a patio. The art on the Planting Packs also serves as a reminder of Jesus’ Parable of the Sower.Planting Packs are available to US customers only. If you are in Canada, please source seeds locally.
renew fact: There’s no “greenwashing” here! (Greenwashing happens when a lot of effort goes into saying a product is environmentally-friendly, without actually lowering the product’s impact on the environment.) ReNew products are manufactured out of recycled or recyclable materials with careful consideration about the whole lifecycle of the product—where the materials came from and what happens to them after VBS. Many items have dual purposes, making it even easier to plan an earth-friendly VBS program.
12 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
how is renew Green?
How is ReNew Green?Your ReNew VBS has the power to change the world. Combined with teaching Jesus’ Parable of the Sower, ReNew focuses on ecology and caring for creation in all aspects of the program, from the activities kids do each day to the program materials.
renew tip: Going green is a process—some changes are easier to make than others. While the core ReNew activities are based on “green” practices, the curriculum offers many options to go “greener” or “greenest” to meet your church’s needs.
Going green may not be the “easiest” thing to do, but growing as environmental stewards and caring for God’s creation is an active way to demonstrate our faith. As kids and adults work together to change their world, they celebrate and share their gives and talents with all creation.
l o W - Wa S T e p l a n n i n gWhile ReNew was designed with careful consideration of the program’s impact on the environment, it’s up to you to decide how “green” you want to make your VBS. Here are some tips to help you create less waste and source environmentally-friendly materials and supplies—from planning, to implementation, to clean-up.
r e d u c eWhen making copies, use recycled paper, print on both sides of the page, and make only the number of copies •needed.
Use email and websites to publicize your VBS. Or reinforce the “ReNew” theme by printing VBS fliers or registration •forms on the backside of old bulletins.
Encourage kids and volunteers to bike, walk, or carpool to VBS.•Act locally. Try to purchase VBS supplies from locally-owned retailers and check labels to see how far the items •traveled to reach your neighborhood. Find nearby churches that are doing ReNew to share decorations and supplies.
If possible, buy snacks in bulk that don’t have a lot of extra packaging.•
r e u s eCheck the Master Supply List (Appendix D) for items you can find used. Begin your planning early so you have time to •ask your congregation and community for donations. You can also find many used items by consulting the yellow pages or searching online for “freecycle” networks near you.
Use reusable dishes, cups, and servingware—they’re the best choice for the environment, even though they need to •be washed. Provide water bottles kids can use throughout the week and keep, or encourage them to bring one from home.
renew tip: “Freecycling” is a word that comes from free and recycling and happens when people give away usable items they no longer want. Not only does it keep stuff out of landfills, but freecycling also saves resources—and doesn’t cost a thing! Think about all the ways you can (and already do) freecycle at your church.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.13
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
how is renew Green?
r e c y c l ePlace boxes or bins in each room and throughout the church to collect recyclables.•Set up a container in your snack area to catch compostable food waste. Find people in your congregation or •community who compost and make arrangements for them to pick up the food scraps each day or at the end of VBS.
Choose supplies and decorations that can stay at church and be repurposed (for Sunday School or worship) or •disassembled and recycled or reused.
renew tip: Some kids and volunteers may be new to composting. If you will be saving food scraps to compost, make a sign so participants know what to keep and what to throw in the trash. (For example, fruit and vegetable scraps can definitely be composted, but most meat and dairy byproducts cannot. Plastic and aluminum should be recycled. Paper and cardboard can be recycled or shredded and composted.)
r e n e wCreate an all-around safe environment by checking labels and avoiding products that may have harmful chemicals.•Check out the “greener” and “greenest” options offered throughout the curriculum and encourage leaders to find •their own additional ways to care for creation and cut waste.
Network with other churches to share resources and grow in faith, together!•
renew tip: Take ReNew to a whole new level by “upcycling”—creating something new and useful out of something disposable and used up. Get creative and try upcycling decorations, activity supplies, and more!
14 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
DaY
ON
epl
anTi
ng S
eedS
MAR
K 4:
1-9:
a s
ower
wen
t out
to s
owGettinG readY to renew
eco-
Ques
tion:
Why
do
peop
le p
lant
see
ds?
spiri
tual
Que
stio
n: W
hy d
oes
God
plan
t see
ds?
tagl
ine:
God
’s lo
ve is
a s
eed
in m
e.
Gath
er
ç
ç
ç
ç
ç
Snac
kSFu
ll Se
eds
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l Mix
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ds!
gam
eSSe
ek T
hose
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ds!
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Tos
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eedy
See
dy
Wor
lda
CtiV
itY
site
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elin
g Sc
atte
ring
Seed
sSo
wer
s an
d Su
pplie
rsEc
o A
rt
com
mun
iTY
aCt
iVit
Y si
te
Seed
Sca
veng
er H
unt
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pod
Squa
dSo
w W
hat W
alk
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aCt
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Y si
te
Scat
tere
d Se
ed C
ards
Grow
a N
ew G
ame
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to
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ach
gaTh
erSe
nd
preS
choo
la
CtiV
itY
site
song
s:“L
et’s
Go
ReN
ew”
“The
Far
mer
and
M
e”“O
ats
and
Bean
s an
d Ba
rley
Grow
”
bibl
e st
oryt
ellin
g:A
ctio
ns a
nd
•R
eact
ions
Hey
See
ds!
• daily
ritu
al
Free
Pla
yLe
t’s L
ook
at S
eeds
!Se
ed H
unt
Trav
elin
g Se
eds
daily
ritu
al
refle
ctio
n
song
s:“T
he F
arm
er a
nd
Me”
“Lis
ten
Up!
”
ren
ew it
! Ch
alle
nge
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.15
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
GettinG readY to renew
DaY
Tw
OTa
king
roo
T
eco-
Ques
tion:
Wha
t do
seed
s ne
ed in
ord
er t
o ta
ke ro
ot?
spiri
tual
Que
stio
n: W
hat a
re m
y sp
iritu
al ro
ots?
tagl
ine:
God
’s lo
ve t
akes
root
in m
e.
MAR
K 4:
1-9:
Pat
h an
d bi
rds
Gath
er
ç
ç
ç
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ç
Snac
kSA
Gin
gery
Tre
atR
oot,
Roo
t, R
oots
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eSH
ere’
s th
e Fr
uit…
Gue
ss It
s R
oots
!Se
ek t
he S
oil!
Spee
dy S
eeds
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lda
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itY
site
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ve a
nd B
elow
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ntin
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bal S
crap
book
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e Pu
ll
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t Tre
e Pl
anti
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ts S
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m t
o Fa
mily
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dy R
oots
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choo
la
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itY
site
song
s:“L
et’s
Go
ReN
ew”
“Jus
t Be
Me”
“Thi
s Li
ttle
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ht
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ine”
bibl
e st
oryt
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g:So
wer
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e •
Show
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• daily
ritu
al
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ySe
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oots
Mag
ic B
agFr
uit f
rom
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und
the
Wor
ld
daily
ritu
al
refle
ctio
n
song
s:“L
iste
n U
p!”
“Jus
t Be
Me”
“Thi
s Li
ttle
Lig
ht
of M
ine”
ren
ew it
! Ch
alle
nge
16 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
DaY
TH
Ree
groW
ing
eco-
Ques
tion:
Wha
t do
seed
s ne
ed in
ord
er t
o gr
ow?
spiri
tual
Que
stio
n: W
hat d
o I n
eed
in o
rder
to
grow
?ta
glin
e: G
od’s
love
is g
row
ing
in m
e.
MAR
K 4:
1-9:
roc
ky G
roun
d
GettinG readY to renew
Gath
er
ç
ç
ç
ç
ç
Snac
kSPl
ant P
arts
Sal
adFr
om C
rops
to
Corn
brea
d
gam
eSSu
n’s
Up,
Sta
nd U
p!So
il or
Shr
ivel
!Ca
lling
All
Seed
s!
Wor
lda
CtiV
itY
site
Grow
ing
Food
Aro
und
th
e W
orld
Crea
tion
’s C
lean
erR
ocky
Run
off
com
mun
iTY
aCt
iVit
Y si
te
Crea
tion
-Frie
ndly
Birt
hday
sN
atur
e’s
Rec
yclin
gGo
d R
ocks
SelF
aCt
iVit
Y si
te
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ing
Toge
ther
Grow
th D
etec
tive
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owin
g
gaTh
erSe
nd
preS
choo
la
CtiV
itY
site
song
s:“L
et’s
Go
ReN
ew”
“I W
ill G
row
”“G
reen
Gra
ss
Grew
All
Aro
und”
bibl
e st
oryt
ellin
g:So
The
Sto
ry
•Gr
ows
How
’s It
•
Grow
ing?
daily
ritu
al
Free
Pla
yW
hat D
o W
e N
eed
to G
row
?A
dopt
a H
ouse
plan
t or P
atio
Pla
ntW
here
in t
he W
orld
?
daily
ritu
al
refle
ctio
n
song
s:“L
iste
n U
p!”
“I W
ill G
row
”“G
reen
Gra
ss G
rew
A
ll A
roun
d”
ren
ew it
! Ch
alle
nge
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.17
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
GettinG readY to renew
DaY
FO
UR
Faci
ng c
hal
leng
eS
eco-
Ques
tion:
Wha
t cha
lleng
es c
reat
ion?
spiri
tual
Que
stio
n: W
hat c
halle
nges
my
fait
h?ta
glin
e: T
he lo
ve o
f Jes
us h
elps
me
face
cha
lleng
es.
MAR
K 4:
1-9:
tho
rns
Gath
er
ç
ç
ç
ç
ç
Snac
kSSp
read
s on
Bre
ads
Popc
orn
gam
eSFl
ower
, Flo
wer
Eco-
Bow
ling
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rom
ise
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f
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itY
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s:“L
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“Tho
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“Pea
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ave
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daily
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al
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n
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s:“L
iste
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“Tho
rns”
“Pea
ce L
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ren
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18 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
DaY
FiV
eli
Ving
Tog
eThe
r
eco-
Ques
tion:
Wha
t hap
pens
whe
n cr
eati
on is
in h
arm
ony?
spiri
tual
Que
stio
n: W
hat h
appe
ns w
hen
my
head
, han
ds, a
nd h
eart
are
in h
arm
ony?
tagl
ine:
We
live
toge
ther
in G
od’s
love
.
GettinG readY to renew
MAR
K 4:
1-9:
Goo
d so
il
Gath
er
ç
ç
ç
ç
ç
Snac
kSSo
il an
d W
orm
s!D
irt-D
otte
d Ic
e Cr
eam
Con
es
gam
eSI S
py w
ith
My
Gree
n Ey
eFo
ur C
orne
rs o
f the
Ear
thCl
ean
Up
Wro
ng, C
lean
Up
Rig
ht
Wor
lda
CtiV
itY
site
Glob
al P
en P
als
Chan
ge t
he W
orld
Wor
ld W
ide
Web
com
mun
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Y si
te
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It O
n Ba
gsCr
ayon
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al
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ther
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dyin
g Ch
ange
Mas
hed
Toge
ther
gaTh
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nd
preS
choo
la
CtiV
itY
site
song
s:“L
et’s
Go
ReN
ew”
“Hea
d, H
ands
, &
Hea
rt”
“He’
s Go
t the
W
hole
Wor
ld in
H
is H
ands
”
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e st
oryt
ellin
g:Go
or N
o Go
•H
uman
Tre
e• da
ily r
itual
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yR
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pSh
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g So
upW
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o W
e Sh
are
the
Wor
ld W
ith?
daily
ritu
al
refle
ctio
n
song
s:“T
he F
arm
er a
nd
Me”
“Lis
ten
Up!
”
ren
ew it
! Ch
alle
nge
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.19
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
TIME GROUP A[Lower elementary]
GROUP B[Lower elementary]
GROUP C[Upper elementary]
GROUP D[Preschool]
9:00–9:30
9:30–10:00 self activity site
Community activity site
world activity site
Preschool activity site
10:00–10:30 snacks/Games snacks/Games snacks/Games Preschool activity site
10:30–11:00 Community activity site
world activity site
self activity site snacks/Games
11:00–11:30 world activity site
self activity site
Community activity site
Preschool activity site
11:30–12:00
r e n e W r o TaT i o n S c h e d u l eReNew VBS materials can be adapted to use in a half-day, full-day, or evening VBS program. Here’s a sample schedule for how groups could rotate through a VBS day and activity sites based on a 3-hour program. Adapt it to meet your VBS schedule.
Note: Activity sites may need to be shortened slightly to account for travel time to the next activity site.
Gather
GettinG readY to renew
send
renew tip: Depending on the size of your program, you may want to combine two or three small groups to rotate through the activity sites together with their shepherds. See the schedule template on page A-7 for help planning your rotation schedule.
20 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
S Ta F F i n g u p
ReNew VBS works best with a group of passionate, caring adult and youth leaders who love Jesus and love kids. These are some of the key people who make ReNew VBS run, so prayerfully consider who to ask to fill each of these roles.
J o b d e s c r i p t i o n s :Vbs director:• Coordinates the entire ReNew VBS program—building a planning team, recruiting and training volunteers, promoting VBS, gathering supplies, decorating, and more.
shepherd:• Guides a small group of 6-8 kids through the VBS rotation each day. Their primary tasks are building relationships among the group and encouraging full participation in ReNew activities.
Gather/send Leader:• Leads the Gather and Send time each day—teaching the Bible story, leading (or co-leading) music, and guiding the Daily Ritual and ReNew It! Challenge. These leaders help VBS kids catch the ReNew vision as they arrive and send them home to share the vision.
activity site Leader: • Leads one of the activity sites—Self, Community, or World. Site leaders help kids dig deeper. Kids’ love for the wonder of the vastness of creation leads to a sense of the awesome responsibility and opportunity Christians have for its care.
Preschool Leader:• Leads the self-contained Preschool Activity Site.
snacks Leader:• Coordinates and leads daily snack time, if your schedule includes this option.
Games Leader:• Leads the Games Site if your church space has the capacity or time scheduled for these activities.
Other important roles for VBS may include:
Registrar: Collects registrations and oversees attendance during VBS, signing kids in and out each day.•Musicians: Lead the group in growing in faith through song and action during the Gather and Send times.•Pastor: Prays for kids and volunteers at ReNew, supports Gather and Send celebrations, and helps out as needed.•
GettinG readY to renew
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.21
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
GettinG readY to renew
g a t h e r/ S e n d l e a d e r
what happens here? Kids engage in part of the Parable of the Sower Bible story and creation care through singing, Bible storytelling, offering gifts for the Mission Moment, participating in the Daily Ritual, and carrying VBS home through a ReNew It! Challenge.
what’s my role? Set up and lead music, storytelling, and other activities focused on the daily eco- and spiritual questions.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, Gather/Send Curriculum, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
S h e p h e r d
what’s my role? Build relationships with a small group of kids, guide them through the VBS activity sites, and help kids on their VBS adventure.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, Shepherd Guides, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
S e l f a c t i v i t y S i t e l e a d e r
what happens here? Kids engage in part of the Parable of the Sower Bible story and creation care through a “self” lens, discovering what each person can do to grow in faith and care for creation.
what’s my role? Set up and lead activities focused on answering the daily eco- and spiritual questions.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, Self Activity Site Curriculum, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
S Ta F F J o B d e S c r i p T i o n SAs you’re recruiting volunteers, copy and share these job descriptions with your VBS staff.
22 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
c o m m u n i t y a c t i v i t y S i t e l e a d e r
what happens here? Kids engage in part of the Parable of the Sower Bible story and creation care through a “community” lens, encountering the part of creation we call community and recognizing God at work in our relationships with one another.
what’s my role? Set up and lead activities focused on answering the daily eco- and spiritual questions.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, Community Activity Site Curriculum, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
W o r l d a c t i v i t y S i t e l e a d e r
what happens here? Kids engage in part of the Parable of the Sower Bible story and creation care through a “world” lens, learning about all creation—from the people and parts we see every day, once in a while, and never.
what’s my role? Set up and lead activities focused on answering the daily eco- and spiritual questions.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, World Activity Site Curriculum, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
p r e s c h o o l l e a d e r
what happens here? Kids experience the Parable of the Sower Bible story and explore creation through free play and activities oriented around the self, community, and world.
what’s my role? Set up and lead activities focused on answering the daily eco- and spiritual questions.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, Preschool Activity Site Curriculum, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
GettinG readY to renew
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.23
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
S n a c k s l e a d e r
what happens here? Kids engage with the Parable of the Sower Bible story and creation care as they eat (and make) snacks and learn where food comes from.
what’s my role? Set up and lead snacktime activities and prayers focused on answering the daily eco- and spiritual questions.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, Snacks Site Curriculum, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
g a m e s l e a d e r
what happens here? Kids engage with the Parable of the Sower Bible story and creation care as they play games.
what’s my role? Set up and lead games focused on answering the daily eco- and spiritual questions.
what do i need? Bible Background, Daily Volunteer Reflections, Games Site Curriculum, and ReNew Rotation Schedule
GettinG readY to renew
24 © 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
RENEWBASICS
ReNew Basics
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
e q u i p p i n g Y o u r V B S S Ta F F
S t a f f Tr a i n i n gBefore VBS begins, hold a training session to provide background on ReNew VBS and equip your volunteers. Here’s a starting point to plan your staff training:
welcome1. Thank and greet the staff and summarize why you’ve chosen ReNew VBS.
snack or Game2. Kick off the training with a snack or game chosen from the ReNew curriculum to get everyone energized and in the VBS mindset.
renew overview3. Briefly explain the background of ReNew—how it works, where the Bible fits in, and how it’s green. You could also show one or more clips from the ReNew Program DVD.
Curriculum4. Make copies of the Parable of the Sower Bible Background (page 6) and Volunteer Reflections (pages 3, 53, 101, 147, 195) for all VBS staff. In addition, copy the Shepherd Guides (pages 4, 54, 102, 148, 196) for each small group shepherd, and give the appropriate curriculum pages to the Gather/Send and Activity Site leaders.
daily themes5. Project or distribute copies of the ReNew VBS Daily Themes Charts. Read the Bible story from Mark 4:1-9 and walk through the daily themes, eco- and spiritual questions, and taglines.
daily schedule6. Walk through the ReNew Rotation Schedule for your VBS day, explaining what happens in the Gather and Send times, as well as the Self, Community, and World sites (and snacks and games, if those will be parts of your VBS). Hand out copies of the schedule so shepherds know where to lead kids each day and so leaders know when groups will visit their sites and which activities to prepare.
Questions7. Field any questions and take time to discuss specific considerations for your congregation’s VBS program, including any safety policies.
Prayer8. Close with a prayer, perhaps one taken from the ReNew curriculum.
send9. Celebrate and send the group on their way. Depending on how much time you have, you could even sing a song from the ReNew Music CD before ending the training session.
renew tip: Make copies of the ReNew Music CD to distribute at your staff training session. Encourage shepherds and leaders to listen to the songs to get excited for VBS and to be ready to help kids during the Gather and Send times.
GettinG readY to renew
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.25
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World. Grow in Faith. Have Fun. Change the World.
© 2010 sparkhouse (wearesparkhouse.org). All rights reserved. Reproducible for local use only.
RENEWBASICS
ReNe
w B
asic
s
GettinG readY to renew
r e n e W V B S S e T u p c o n S i d e r aT i o n S
d a i l y r i t u a l S e t u pYou can set up the Daily Ritual for your ReNew VBS several ways.
Planting stationsIf you have a smaller VBS or quite a bit of space, you can set up Planting Stations where groups can go during the Send part of the Daily Ritual to fill their seed pots. Set up a station for every 15-20 kids, and make sure there’s plenty of room for kids to gather around the station. At each station:
Cover a table and surrounding area with tablecloths, a tarp, or newspaper. 1.
Fill several shallow containers with potting soil.2.
Set out a dozen spoons or small garden tools kids can use to scoop dirt from the containers into their seed pots.3.
Designate an area for kids to place their filled seed pots for safekeeping after the ritual is complete. You could 4. provide a shoebox for each small group to make it easy for kids to find their seed pots before they go home each day.
Portable Planting stationsThis is a good option for larger VBS programs or churches with limited time or space for kids to move around. Before the Send time begins, place one portable planting station in the area where each small group will meet. Then they can do the ritual without moving around the space.
Fill an ice cream pail or similar covered container with potting soil. 1.
Place one or two spoons or small scoops into the pail and seal.2.
Write the small group or shepherd’s name on a shoebox large enough to keep a day’s worth of filled seed pods.3.
Other options may include setting up planting areas outdoors, integrating the ritual into one of the activity sites, or another setup to fit your church context and VBS schedule.
For any of these options, you may want to offer a clean-up area with warm, soapy water and towels to clean up dirty hands.
renew tip: To reduce the mess factor, the Daily Ritual instructions encourage kids to water their seed pots at home. If you want kids to water their seed pots during VBS, fill up spray bottles with water and set the nozzle so kids can lightly mist their seed pots.
p r e s c h o o l S e t u pFree Play is an important part of the VBS experience for preschoolers. By using their imaginations and sense of wonder, kids discover the Bible story and how to care for creation. Each day, the youngest kids at VBS have an opportunity to wonder and explore at these Free Play stations:
Sensory Table: filled with things to touch, sort, and dig in.•Pretend Play: surrounded with farming and gardening apparel, toy tools, and food and store props.•Book Corner: offering a variety of kid-friendly picture books about plants, gardening, farming, the environment, and •other parts of creation.
Playdough: made up of a covered table, kid-friendly sculpting tools, and purchased or homemade playdough.•For Preschool Activity Site setup tips, check out Day 1 of the Preschool Activity Site (pages 35–36), the Preschool Decorating Floor Plan (page B-7), and the Preschool Activity Site decorating segment on the Program Guide DVD.
Large trees will have many thousands of feeder roots that extend well beyond the canopy. The larger tree roots anchor the tree and serve to transport and store nutrients. About 75% of the tree’s roots will be in the top 10 to 18 inches of soil, while nearly 100% of the tree’s roots will be in the top three feet of soil.