Time to Place a Call to the VBS Myth Busters

VBS follow-up automatically happens, right? Sure it does – at least in the land of myths and assumptions.
While we are not sure who is responsible or who actually makes the contacts, we are sure if it is important enough someone has already taken care of it. “After all, I was only enlisted to serve snacks during VBS, not continue connections once the kitchen has been cleaned.”
While we have the best intentions for follow-up, allowing assumptions and myths to exist will destroy those intentions. Assumptions and myths create roadblocks to building relationships with unchurched families discovered during ministry events such as VBS, and they rob the event potential of making a lasting impact.
How many of these myths have your heard, or possibly thought yourself?

• Follow-up begins after the event.
• Family night is so busy there is no time to meet the parents.
• There are plenty of people to help with follow-up. After all, an announcement was made that help was needed so I’m sure enough people responded.
• I told them we were glad they came and hope they come back soon. Isn’t that enough?
• Follow-up is the Pastor’s job.
• We sent a postcard. If the family is interested they will respond to the postcard.
• Since the family didn’t come back the Sunday after VBS they were obviously not interested in the church. They probably just wanted free childcare for the week.
• I was enlisted to work in VBS. No one said anything about follow-up or continued connections.
• Of course I didn’t take time to meet the parents. I was enlisted to work with the kids.
• We told them Jesus loves them and so do we. Now it is up to them to make the next move.
• I don’t make follow-up visits. I wouldn’t know what to say.
• I don’t have time to invest in follow-up. I have to get ready for the next ministry event.
• Thanks goodness VBS is over. As of now I’m officially on vacation until next year.

Continuing connections with unchurched families discovered during VBS won’t happen by itself. Planning, intentional implementation, and a never-give-up attitude are required. And most of all, you will need to call in the VBS Myth Busters.