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PREVIEW ONLY PREVIEW ONLY PREVIEW ONLY Crucified Higher Things Vacation Bible School Sneak Preview The Father Promises 1 day Visit www.higherthings.org to purchase the complete curriculum! Available Novemer 6, 2014
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CrucifiedHigher Things Vacation Bible School

Sneak PreviewThe Father Promises1day

Visit www.higherthings.org to purchase the complete curriculum!

Available Novemer 6, 2014

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Director’s GuideHigher Things – Vacation Bible School

IntroductionThis curriculum is specifically designed to highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of your church’s youth for God’s Word. We believe the talents of your church’s youth can play an important role in engaging an even younger generation and teaching them to recognize God’s gifts to us in His Word and Sacraments. We hope this curriculum will help both the young and the young at heart to bring the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ to the children of your congregation and community.

The HT 2014 VBS focuses on the centrality of the cross of Christ for Christian faith, doctrine, and fellowship. The cross is at the center of all that God has spoken and done. The cross of Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testa-ment promises and the plan of God’s salvation. This curriculum shows the children how all which we learn about God in the Bible is connected to and ultimate built upon the cross of Christ.

In order that this focus might be made clear throughout the VBS week, we have the following objectives:

• teach the children how different Bible stories all point to the Christ, and that all Scripture is built on the foundation of Jesus’ suffering and death upon the cross for us.

• help the children understand our sinful condition and actions, which require a Savior if we are not to be lost forever.

• proclaim how God sent His Son to be our Savior, to suffer and die in our place that we might receive forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and salvation.

• show how this gift changes the lives of all how receive it, that those who believe in Jesus not only are saved but are also called into the body of Christ to live with and serve others and even to suffer in the name of Jesus in this world.

There are many points to balance in a successful, Christ-centered Vacation Bible School. We hope your congregation will give prayerful consideration to each of these aspects as you tailor these resources to fit your church and the needs of her smallest members.

The Three W’s of Higher Things: Work, Worship, and FUN!An important part of Higher Things’ mission and success comes from the separation of work, worship and fun. Yet for children in preschool through fifth grade, work is play. To separate work from play eliminates significant opportunities for learning and fun. We find that for younger children, instead of separating work and play, we should look for the best balance of the two. The best way to balance VBS between “Vacation” and “School” is to keep “Bible” right in the center!

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

HT-VBS Director’s Guide

Contact Us! If you have any questions or comments regarding the material or to let us know of any errors or omissions, please share by emailing us at [email protected].

PermissionsPurchase of the Higher Things VBS material provides gives you permission to duplicate any content herein for use in your Vacation Bible School program, promotional materials, and for the congregation. Redistribution or selling of any of the material contained in this download (or on the CD) is not allowed.

AcknolwedgementsMany individuals gave of their time to see this project to completion. Special thanks to Mr. Leon Miles, Director of Christian Education at St. John Lutheran Church, Marengo, Iowa for approaching Higher Things with the idea and outline for VBS material. Mr. Miles contributed the framework and outline of the week’s material and themes. Thanks also to the Rev. Andrew Gray, pastor of St. John, for supporting their DCE in this work, and to DCE Ben Venticher, Jane Fry, Natalie Fry, Debora Hinrichs for all their assistance.

Immeasureable thanks to Mrs. Tracey Dann of Cumberland, Rhode Island, who, for the second year in a row, authored the HT-VBS lessons and material. Tracey wove the excellent biblical and catechetical material into fun and engaging lessons for the children, as well as designed the snacks, games, and additional preschool material. she also scrambled, with the help of her own children, to take the crafts through a trial run. Like a great Disney movie, Tracey brings humor that adults will appreciated and blends it with fun that the kids will enjoy, all while sticking to the Bible and Catechism and not watering them down.

Mr. Chris Loemker, who serves as Music Director and organist at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, in Collinsville, Illinois, provided hymn arrangements as MP3 files. This organ accompaniment for the music being learned in the Crucified VBS has been graciously provided by the Substitute Organist Service™ from Church Music Solutions. For more information on this service, go to www.churchmusicsolutions.com.

Mr. Ed Riojas, member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Grand Rapids, Michigan, provided the artwork for our Conference logo and the daily clipart designs. He specaill designed the Day 5 picture of Saul and the other art is from the our popular Higher Things Ecclesiastical Clipart package, also created by Ed.

Special thanks to the folks at Concordia Publishing House for their generous permission to use material from Lutheran Service Book and Luther’s Small Catechism in this package.

Thanks to Mrs. Susan Buetow, Bethel Lutheran Church in Du Qulin, Illinois, for making and photographing the snacks for the VBS material.

Shout outs and props to the Higher Things Webmaster, Mr. Jon Kohlmeier, for technical support and website updates.

Finally, the material would not be available and organized without the tireless work of Ms. Sandra Ostapowich. Sandra serves as the Conference and Retreats Executive of Higher Things but also possesses outstanding skills in the areas of layout and design. Her work has put everything together and made it into the outstanding package that it is.

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

HT-VBS Director’s Guide

How to Use These MaterialsLeaders’ GuidesThe instructional materials each area needs are all found in their respective Leader Guide section. A copy of the corresponding section should be given to each leader/coordinator. Each small group leader should also carry a printed copy of the final rotation schedule, and each station should have a schedule posted in the room as well. The Director should also provide the appropriate leaders with any additional materials from the VBS file for their class area (posters/banners, sound effect files, clues, missions, games, etc.).

Posters and BannersPosters and banners have been designed for printing on 11” x 17” (tabloid) paper. Feel free to have these images enlarged or even make your own versions. Optional versions of Catechism posters suitable for printing on letter size paper are available in the Catechism folder of the material.

MusicMusic suggestions for learning from one to five hymns throughout the week are provided. Material to teach these hymns includes printable sheets with music, lyrics only, and picture-file slides (.JPG) which can be projected or incorporated into a printed handout or PowerPoint presentation.

MP3 audio accompaniment files have also been included with this package. The files include the simple melodies as well as renditions using one or more stanzas as suggested by the Music Leader’s guides and the number of hymns being learned throughout the week. These MP3 files can be played using any standard iPod or digital music player, computer, or even burned to a CD to be used by staff and students. More information is found in the Music Leader’s section.

ImagesPrint-ready images of the Crucified VBS logo and each of the daily Bible themes are included as JPG and PDF files with the VBS curriculum. Feel free to use them for additional coloring pages, decorations, banner-making, promotional materials, etc.

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Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: The Crucifixion (Mark 15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

HT-VBS Director’s Guide

Grouping PartipantsOur Vacation Bible School resources are designed to teach Bible stories and Lutheran doctrine to children from many different environments. While some children may attend a Lutheran Day School, others may only attend services on Sunday. And while many children may attend services on Sunday, some children can only come to church during VBS week when they visit Grandma and Grandpa. Some children may be able to attend VBS all week, some children only for one day. It is our vocation – as VBS leaders – to reach out to each of them.

Each child is a unique creation given to us by God. As such, each child learns differently. We have created our resources to reflect the multitude of ways children learn: physical play, creating art, drama, discussion, Scripture reading, repetition, and song. With a little creativity on the part of the volunteers, these materials will be flexible enough to reach every kind of learner and lead each of them to the foot of the cross while still maintaining respect and reverence for our Father’s house.

We recommend that each small group follow a 6:1 ratio, with one adult or high school teenager as a leader, and six children. Groups be formed in one of two ways:

Traditional Most often, VBS class groupings are age- or grade-based. Such groupings make the day easier on the leaders of each small group, but the various session leaders will have to adapt their teaching for a particular age group.

Family Style Many churches have also had a lot of success forming small groups with a variety of ages. i.e., a child from each grade. Intentionally diversifying the ages within a small group helps to foster mentoring relationships between the older and younger participants.

Two to four small groups of 6 children and their guide may move together as a “class” around the rotation, but each church’s VBS enrollment and classroom sizes will determine how many small groups can move through the rotations together.

PreschoolersWe are pleased this year to offer material specific to Preschool-aged children. While the regular VBS material can certainly be adapted to the needs of younger children, we felt that some specific activities and guidance would be helpful to directors and teachers who will be leading preschool age children. The material included for the Preschool lessons is all grouped together and includes a simplified action-word retelling of the day’s Bible story, and some options for games and crafts suitable for Preschoolers. This material is all found in the Preschool section of this manual and the Preschool folder of the VBS package.

Daily ScheduleThe schedule for each day is designed to run in 15-20 minute time blocks with 5 minutes of transition time between sessions. Transitioning between classes can get chaotic at times. Using walkie-talkies, bells, horns, or some other noisemaker to indicate the beginning and end of a class period is often helpful. Reproducible schedules for three groups and four groups are provided on pages 10 and 11 with space in the charts to write in specific times for each activity.

• It is sometimes helpful, since classes will be rotating through the schedule together throughout the day, to seat them together during opening and closing service. Adhering to one seating arrangement will also expedite arrival and dismissal.

• Music will be practiced all together in the Opening and Closing devotions, but will be learned in small groups as each small group rotates through their Music session.

• Eating snacks all together will likely require a larger seating area, but it is often easier for the Snack Leader to coordinate, and safer for those trying to keep track of allergies. It also allows for additional time at the end of each day to clean up and prepare for the next day’s tasty lesson, making everyone’s day more fun.

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

HT-VBS Director’s Guide

VolunteersFollowing is a basic list of volunteers needed to run a successful VBS week. Many of the rooms may require more helping hands, depending on the number of participants enrolled (snacks, games, and crafts in particular). Detailed information for each Leader is found in this book as well as in separate files withing the corresponding folder of the VBS material. A volunteer contact form is included in the Director’s Guide section. Detailed job descriptions are provided for each of the volunteer positions below:

• Opening/Closing Leader• Music Leader• Bible Breakaway Leader• Bible Breakaway Actors*• Catechism Study Leader• Actors*• Crafts Coordinator• Games Leader*• Snacks Coordinator• Small Group Guides* (one per 6 children)

Any position marked with an * is well-suited to an experienced Higher Things conference youth. Opening/Closing Leader

This person will, in most cases, be the pastor of the congregation. He will lead the children though the Opening and Closing devotions, set the tone for the day, and introduce/wrap-up the main teaching points of each day.

Music LeaderTeaches the week’s hymns to the children. It would be helpful if this person could play the organ or piano, or at least be assisted by someone who can. We have provided music MP3 files (melody line and organ accompaniment of the entire hymn) for your convenience as well.

Bible Breakaway LeaderThis person will organize the Bible Breakaway lessons, may serve as an actor, and lead the discussion that follows.

Catechism Study Leader (“Creed, the Superhero”)Leads the Catechism sessions teaching about Baptism; organizes the posters, props, and catechism activities each day. We recommend that your congregation’s pastor lead these sessions.

Actors*The supporting characters in the optional Weaker Brother, Bible story, and Catechism illustrations.

CraftsGather and organize craft materials, set up the craft room, help the children to assemble their crafts and review the “What does this mean?” information for each day’s lesson.

Snacks CoordinatorPrepare snacks and organize their distribution through the small group leaders, and review the “What does this mean?” information with the students each day.

Games Leader*Prepare and lead the children in games and through the “What does this mean?” discussion after the games.

Small Group Guides*Each small group of children will need a guide to lead them from one activity to another, to help maintain their group follow the leader’s instructions in the classroom and help each class leader facilitate discussion.

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HT-VBS Director’s Guide

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DonationsLists of needed materials for crafts and snacks are provided at the beginning of each section. Use these lists to request donations of items from the congregation.

Advertising and RegistrationGroups are encouraged to create posters, bulletin inserts, fliers, etc. as needed to advertise the dates and times of their Vacation Bible School using the image files provided. A reproducible registration form is available on page in this booklet and in the VBS files.

“Crucified” 2014 VBS – Copyright InformationMy Soul Magnifies the Lord (LSB p.248)Text and tune © 1978 LBW. Used with permission of CPH. Refrain © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission. www.cph.org.

Apostles Creed and Meanings from Luther’s Small CatechismFrom Luther’s Small Catechism © 1986, 1991 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission. www.cph.org.

Text of the Orders for Daily Prayer, Morning, Noon, Evening, and Close of the DayFrom Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission. www.cph.org.

Setting and tune of Sing My Tongue (LSB 454)Tune © 1967, setting © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission. www.cph.org.

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®) Copyright © 2001 by Crossway,a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.All rights reserved.

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

PreschoolHigher Things – Vacation Bible School

With a high adult-to-preschooler ratio, many of the crafts, snacks and games provided in the Higher Things VBS curriculum will work very well for the 3- and 4-year-old crowd. Specific lesson modifications and alternatives for this age group are provided in this section.

General Helpful Hints• Childrenatthisagelevelrespondwelltopatternsandparameters.Providingaregulardailyscheduleand

adedicatedpreschoolspacewillstructurethedayandgivemoreopportunityforfreeplay.

• Forreasonsofsizeandsocialdevelopment,itisusuallysaferandmoreeffectiveforlearningtokeeppreschoolersinagroupseparatefromtheK-5children–eveniftheotherparticipantsareinmixed-agegroups.

• Preschoolprogramsareoftenbilledas“MommyandMe”programs,requiringoneparentinattendanceatalltimes.Ifthisoptionisavailabletoyou,itisagoodwaytokeepparticipantssafeandhappy,aswellasrecruitmoreparentvolunteers.

• Childrenatthisagelevelareusuallylearningtoplaywithoneanotherforthefirsttime.Someofthemwillplaynexttooneanother,butnotwithoneanother.Manyofthemwillbejustlearningtoshare.

• Often,preschoolersarenotaccustomedtothreehoursofconstantprogramming.Assuch,theymayneedsomeadditionalfreeplayduringtheday.Ifnoplayspaceisavailable,findgrass,shade,andaplasticpoolandfillitwithsandorwaterandtoys.

• Thechildrenwillbetterrememberthewordsofthehymnsifthereareaccompanyingmotionstooccupytheirhandsandremindthemwhatcomesnext.Getcreative!

• Repetitioniskey.Ifyouhavetheopportunitytoreadthestoryintwodifferentwaystakeit!RepeatthestoriesfromthedailyBiblelessons,usingfeltboards,puppets,etc.

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: TheFall(Genesis3:1-19)Catechism: TheApostles’Creed,FirstArticle

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: TheAnnunciation(Luke1:26-38)Catechism: TheApostles’Creed,SecondArticle,Part1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: TheCrucifixion(Mark15:21-47)Catechism: TheApostles’Creed,SecondArticle,Part2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: TheResurrection(Luke24:1-12)Catechism: TheApostles’Creed,SecondArticle,Part3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: TheConversionofSaul(Acts9:1-19)Catechism: TheApostles’Creed,ThirdArticle

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Preschool BibleThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Each day the children will add two new words to their action key vocabulary. But pay attention, sometimes action words will jump the page into a new story! Repeat the story using the Action Words below, or use an Arch Book or other age-appropriate storytelling methods (felt board, puppets, etc.).

Day 1 Action Words• FALL/FELL –Fallover.

• TRAP –Holdyourarmsstraightoutinfrontofyouandclaplikeanalligator’smouthclosing.

StoryInthebeginning,GodmadeAdamandEve.AllofGod’screationwasgood.GodputAdamandEveintoabeautifulgarden.GodsaidtoAdam,“Youmayeatfromanytreeinthegardenexceptone.DonoteatthefruitthatFALLsfromthistreeoryouwilldie.”

Inthegarden,therewasaFALLenangel,theDevil.HewantedtoTRAPAdamandEveinsin.TheFALLenangeldisguisedhimselfasasnakeandtheTRAPwasset.

OnedayEvemettheFALLenangelinthetree.HeaskedEve,“DidGodreallytellyounottoeatthefruitfromanyofthetrees?”

Evesaid,“No,Godsaidwecaneatfromallofthetreesinthegardenexceptthisone.AndHesaidnottoeventouchit.”

TheFALLenangelsaid,“Youwillnotdie.Goaheadandtryit.”AndtheTRAPwasset.

EverememberedGod’sdirections,butshedidn’ttrustinGod’sWord.Instead,shebelievedtheliethesnaketoldher.SheatethefruitandsodidAdam.AdamandEveFELLintotheTRAPofsin!

GodcamelookingforAdamandEve.HeknewAdamandEvehadnottrustedinHisWordandthattheyatethefruit.HeknewtheyFELLintotheDevil’sTRAP.“AdamandEve,”Godasked,“Whathaveyoudone?”

“ThedevilTRAPpedus!”theysaid.

Godsaid,“Youdisobeyedme.Youbroughtsintomygoodcreation.NoweverylivingcreatureisTRAPpedbysinandbydeath.Butdonotbeafraid.IwillsendyouaSavior.JesuswillrescueyoufromyourFALL.YouwillnolongerbyTRAPpedbyyoursins.”

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Preschool GamesThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Fall into SinMaterials

• Fourtoeightfeetofribbon

Directions1. Laytheribboninastraightlineinasoftspace,likeonacarpetorthegrass.2. Oneatatime,letthechildrenwalkacrosstheribbononefootinfrontofanotherlikeabalancebeam.3. Forafuntwist,orformoreadvancedchildren,letthemjump,hoporwalkbackwards.

What does this mean? JustlikeAdamandEve,weallfallintosin.Jesusdiedonthecrosstoforgiveus.Whenwefallintosin,wecanstartoverlikewedoonourribbon.

We All Fall Down!Materials

• None

Directions1. ForourAdamandEveversionof“RingaroundtheRosie,”standinacircleongrassorcarpetingand

holdhands.2. Asyousing,walkinacircle.3. Attheend,everyonefallsdown.4. Repeatuntiltheadultsintheroomneedkneereplacementsurgery.

Adam, Eve, and me—Ate apples from the tree—

Sin comes, sin comes.We all fall down!

Sin EverywhereMaterials

• Parachute• 8-10Balls(beachballs,tennisballsandfoamballsworkwellonparachutes)

Directions1. Laytheparachuteinacircleonthefloor.2. Seteachofthechildreninfrontofonehandleoftheparachute.3. Placetheballsinthemiddleoftheparachute.4. Bouncetheparachuteupanddownuntilalloftheballsaremoving.

What Does this Mean?AdamandEvebroughtsinintotheworld.Weareallsinners.Oursinsaffecteveryoneandeverything.Imaginetheballsarepeopleandthisparachuteisoursins.Sinaffectseveryone.Sinhurtsourfeelings;itcausespain,sufferingandsadness.

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Preschool CraftsThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

That Crafty SerpentMaterials

• Paperplate• Paint• Paintbrushes• Scissors• Wiggleeyes• Pipecleaner• Glue• Cups• Water

PreparationDependingontheageandabilityofyourparticipants,youmaywanttoconsiderdrawingwithsharpieorprecuttingthesnakeheadandspiralonthepaperplate.

Instructions1. Useyourwatercolorsoranyotherpaint,andapplytothefrontofthepaperplate.2. Makesureyoucovertheentireplate.Useafewdifferentcolors.3. Onceyourplateisdrybegincuttinginaspiralmotiontowardsthecenter.4. Nowit'stimeforsomewiggleeyes!Usedifferentsizedforextra"sneakiness".5. Youcanmakeatongueoutofaredpipecleaner.6. Pokethepipecleanerthroughthehead,andtapeontheback.

What Does this Mean?1. Remindthechildrenaboutthesnake’sroleintoday’sstory.2. Whodidthesnaketalkto?3. WhatdidthesnaketellEvetoeat?4. WhotoldAdamandEvenottoeattheapple?5. DidAdamandEvelistentoGod?6. Whathappenedwhentheydidnotlisten?7. WhenwearenotlisteningtoGod,isitasin?8. GodmadeAdamandEveapromise.Whoisgoingtocomeandsavethemfromtheirsins?9. WhoelsedidJesussave?

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HT-VBS Preschool Crafts – Day 1

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Stuffed AppleMaterials

• Browngrocerybagorcardstock• Newspaper• Holepunchorstapler• Ribbon• Paintorcrayons(Red,brownandgreen)• Scissors(optional)• Paintbrush(optional)• Button(optional)

Preparations1. Thedirectionsinludelacingthisapple.However,foryoungerchildrenitmaybesimplertouseastapler.2. Precuttingyourapplesmayalsosavesometimeandmess.

Instructions1. Usetwocopiesoftheappleoutline(followingpage).2. Cutout2apples(backandfront).3. Paintorcolortheapples.4. Whilethepaintdries,crumpleupsmallpiecesofnewspaper.5. Whendry,punchholesintheapple(makesureyoupunchtheminthesamespotonbothfrontandback).6. Tieyourribbondirectlytoyourappleoruseabuttonasastopper.7. Lacethroughtwothirdsoftheholesorstapletwothirdsofthewayaroundtheapple..8. Stuffwithyournewspaper.9. Finishlacingorstapling.

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

OpeningOpenings

Higher Things – Vacation Bible School

This section is a resource for the opening devotions leader. In most cases, this will be your church’s pastor.

OverviewThe Opening and Closing offices of the “Crucified” VBS serve as an introduction to Sunday morning’s Divine Service. Our services are created with the goal of nurturing, in young hearts and minds, a love for the Word of God in our liturgy and an understanding of and respect for our faith that will last a lifetime. As you plan your VBS, please take into careful consideration the balance between maintaining the sanctity of the sanctuary while bringing God’s children to an understanding of His gifts.

In an effort to help with this task, we would like to provide you with the following tools to be used at the discretion of your pastor and congregational leadership:

• an abbreviated Opening and Closing liturgy, adapted from the “Daily Prayers for Individuals and Family” from Lutheran Service Book (pages 294-298) to fit either a morning or evening Vacation Bible School.

• digital “banners” for each day’s theme are included in the Openings folder. These can be projected, printed, traced, enlarged or otherwise recreated to fit your program’s needs.

• bullet points summarizing the daily Bible and catechism lessons to help your pastor prepare a homily, or another VBS leader to introduce the day’s lesson.

• a handout of the liturgy, and various media for the hymns taught during the week.• A brief opening illustration entitled “The Weaker Brother” is provided for each day. In the absence of the

pastor, this scripted dialogue could be used in place of the homily (the Openings leader should still review the summary points with the students). These brief introductions might also be used as a general activity with all the children before they are dismissed to their first session.

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: The Crucifixion (Mark 15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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HT-VBS Openings

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

OpeningSet Up

In order to teach a child the importance of how we worship, openings should take place in the sanctuary. All leaders should encourage appropriate behavior from the children while in the Lord’s house. There are art images for each day’s theme in the Artwork folder of the VBS materials. To help set the theme of the day, these images are designed to print on 11″ x 17″ paper, but may be enlarged and/or traced onto newsprint, or even made into fabric banners by especially talented volunteers. Be creative!

HomiliesThe Opening and Closing prayer offices are designed to contain a brief (5-10 minute) homily. We suggest that the homily be preached to the children by the pastor, from the pulpit—just like it would be done on Sunday. This way children will see that the “services” at VBS are not disconnected from Sunday morning’s Divine Service.

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Morning OpeningThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

OpeningThe sign of the cross T may be made by all in remembrance of their Baptism.

L In the name of the Father and of the T Son and of the Holy Spirit.C Amen.

L In the morning, O Lord, You hear my voice;C InthemorningIprepareasacrificeforYouandwatch.

L My mouth is filled with Your praise,C AndwithYourgloryalltheday.

L O Lord, open my lips,C AndmymouthwilldeclareYourpraise.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Hymn of the Day (based on music selections for the week)

Scripture ReadingGenesis 3:1-19

Homily/Lesson Introduction• Adam and Eve fell into sin when they did not listen to or trust in God and His Word.• Their sins have spread through every generation, manifesting themselves even in our own lives.• Our sins are so great that each one of us is in need of a Savior.• God promised a Savior for all of us to Adam and Eve in the Garden.• God’s promises always saves us from sin.

Apostles’ Creed

Lord’s Prayer

Concluding PrayersL Almighty God, merciful Father, who created and completed all things, on this day when the work of our calling

begins anew, we implor You to create its beginning, direct its continuance and bless its end, that our doings may be preserved from sin, our life sanctified, and our work this day be well pleasing to You’ through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

C Amen.

C IthankYou,myheavenlyFather,throughJesusChrist,YourdearSon,thatYouhavekeptmethisnightfromallharmanddanger;andIpraythatYouwouldkeepmethisdayalsofromsinandeveryevil,thatallmydoingandlifemaypleaseYou.ForintoYourhandsIcommendmyself,mybodyandsoul,andallthings.LetYourholyangelbewithme,thattheevilfoemayhavenopoweroverme.Amen.

L Let us bless the Lord.C Thanks be to God.

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HT-VBS Morning Opening – Day 1

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

OpeningThe Weaker Brother

Brother: (The weaker brother enters frightened and paranoid, continually looking over his or her shoulder.) Help. Help. Help. Help. Help.

Leader: What’s wrong? How can I help you?

Brother: I can’t get away. It is everywhere! Help. Help!

Leader: What are you running from?

Brother: Bad choices. So many bad choices. I make awful choices everywhere.

Leader: Oh, I see. We have another name for those here…the selfish, mean terrible things that we do. We call them sins. And you are right, they are everywhere.

Brother: I know! I sin at home. I sin at school. I sin at the park. I sin in the sandbox. I sin at my grandma’s house. I’ve even sinned right here at church.

Leader: I know. Believe it or not, all of the sin you see everywhere in the world started one day with a walk in a garden. Today we are going to learn about that walk, how Adam and Eve were tempted, fell into sin and took the whole world down with them.

Brother: Wait a minute. One man, Adam, made all of this sin happen??

Leader: Yes. It only took one person to bring sin, hurt and pain to all of God’s creation. But it only takes one person, True God and True man to rescue us from sin’s power. We need a Savior willing to suffer and die for every sin ever committed. God promised that person to Adam and Eve right there in the Garden. Today we are going to learn about God’s promise of a Savior to deliver us from sin, death and the power of the Devil.

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Evening OpeningThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

OpeningThe sign of the cross T may be made by all in remembrance of their Baptism.

L In the name of the Father and of the T Son and of the Holy Spirit.C Amen.

L Let my prayer rise before you as incense,C Theliftingupofmyhandsastheeveningsacrifice.

L Joyous light of glory:C of the immortal Father; heavenly,holy,blessedJesusChrist. We have come to the setting of the sun, and we look to the evening light. We sing to God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: Youareworthyofbeingpraisedwithpurevoicesforever. O Son of God, O Giver of life: the universe proclaims your glory.

Hymn of the Day (based on music selections for the week)

Scripture ReadingGenesis 3:1-19

Homily/Lesson Introduction• Adam and Eve fell into sin when they did not listen to or trust in God and His Word. • Their sins have spread through every generation, manifesting themselves even in our own lives. • Our sins are so great that each one of us is in need of a Savior.• God promised a Savior for all of us to Adam and Eve in the Garden.• God’s promises always saves us from sin.

Apostles’ Creed

Concluding PrayerL Lord Jesus, stay with us, for the evening is at hand and the day is past. Be our constant companion on the way, kindle our hearts, and awaken hope among us, that we may recognize You as You are revealed in the Scriptures and in the breaking of the bread. Grant this for Your name’s sake.C Amen.

L Let us bless the Lord.C Thanks be to God.

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HT-VBS Evening Opening – Day 1

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

OpeningThe Weaker Brother

Brother: (The weaker brother enters frightened and paranoid, continually looking over his or her shoulder.) Help. Help. Help. Help. Help.

Leader: What’s wrong? How can I help you?

Brother: I can’t get away. It is everywhere! Help. Help!

Leader: What are you running from?

Brother: Bad choices. So many bad choices. I make awful choices everywhere.

Leader: Oh, I see. We have another name for those here…the selfish, mean terrible things that we do. We call them sins. And you are right, they are everywhere.

Brother: I know! I sin at home. I sin at school. I sin at the park. I sin in the sandbox. I sin at my grandma’s house. I’ve even sinned right here at church.

Leader: I know. Believe it or not, all of the sin you see everywhere in the world started one day with a walk in a garden. Today we are going to learn about that walk, how Adam and Eve were tempted, fell into sin and took the whole world down with them.

Brother: Wait a minute. One man, Adam, made all of this sin happen??

Leader: Yes. It only took one person to bring sin, hurt and pain to all of God’s creation. But it only takes one person, True God and True man to rescue us from sin’s power. We need a Savior willing to suffer and die for every sin ever committed. God promised that person to Adam and Eve right there in the Garden. Today we are going to learn about God’s promise of a Savior to deliver us from sin, death and the power of the Devil.

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

CatechismCatechism

Higher Things – Vacation Bible SchoolThis section is for the Catechism Study Leader. The daily Catechism lesson plans are included in the Catechism Leader’s Guide.

Role of Catechism LeaderThe original purpose of Luther’s Small Catechism was to help parents to teach the young what the Bible says. This tradition continues today in many congregations where catechumens learn the catechism. The time set aside for each day’s Catechism Lesson will introduce the children to Apostles’ Creed, its articles, and their meanings.

The role of the Catechism Leader is to teach the children each article of the Creed, and to help them learn the words of the Catechism which explain what the Apostles’ Creed means. The goal of the catechism lesson is not necessarily memorization (ideally, it will start the children down that road) but if a little memory work sneaks in while they’re having fun, all the better. Whenever possible, we recommend that your church’s pastor serve as the Catechism Study Leader (“Creed”).

Catechism Lesson PlansThe Catechism section has all the lesson plans and information needed for each day of VBS in the form of a scripted illustration. Please be sure to review each day’s lesson in advance and print the appropriate posters and prepare the materials for the lesson. Discussion questions about the catechism lesson are provided to reinforce the lesson and to encourage class participation. Leaders should feel free to use the scripts as an outline if they are comfortable doing so. Artistic license is encouraged. Doctrinal license is not.

The Catechism Creed Posters are provided as image files in the Catechism folder of the VBS material. These images can be printed on any size paper and attached to poster board or placed around the room. The entire set of posters is also a PDF file for printing. We recommend printing the current day's lesson on a different color paper so it will be highlighted when it is posted amongst the other papers and "Epistles." Younger children may need help reading the posters, but the older participants should use their Bibles to look up verses whenever possible.

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: The Crucifixion (Mark 15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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CatechismThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Catechism

Lesson OverviewThe Apostles’ Creed

First Article: The focus for the Catechism study will be upon the gracious love of God, who provides all the daily needs to a sinful and rebellious people. The children will see how we depend upon God every day for our daily bread, yet neither do we deserve it nor do we give proper thanks for it. Despite our sinfulness, the Father not only cares for us but sends His Son to take away our sins.

Objectives• The children will understand that a creed is a statement of belief that teaches and confesses our faith.

• The children will understand the four attributes of God the Father: Fatherly, divine, good, and merciful.

• The children will connect those attributes, as illustrated in Scripture, with the First Article of the Apostles’ Creed and its meaning.

PreparationsCharacters & Props

• Creed: Creed is a lovable, though imperfect, superhero whose mission in life is to use his superpowers, provided by the Holy Spirit, to help little Lutherans learn to confess their faith. His costume can be as simple as a cape, or as elaborate as you would like. We recommend wearing tights only as a last resort. Creed has three teaching tools available each lesson, described below. These are simple props that will be reused throughout the week.

• The Epistolator: The only requirement of this prop is that it make noise at the press of a button. We suggest redecorating an inexpensive princess wand, a game buzzer, or even a smartphone app. Each time you see the word BUZZ below, press the Epistolator and a verse from an epistle “appears.”

• The Catechator: This prop has only one requirement, you need to be able to feed paper through it. The machine can look as elaborate as you like, as long as you can put the Epistles in one side and the Creed posters can be pulled out the other side. If you would like to be a truly hard-core Lutheran, you may paint the machine maroon with gold lettering.

• The Confessionator: This prop is a megaphone. It can be mechanical, paper, or plastic, depending on the desired authenticity or volume level. In the end it can be anything, as long as Creed can shout into one end.

Setting the Room1. Place Epistles #1-7 on the walls. Print the verse on one side and, if looking up the verses will take a

long time, print the words on the opposite side.

2. Put the First Article and First Article Explanation posters inside the Catechator to be pulled out later by Creed.

3. To play Operation Salvation, you will need scissors as well as a copy of Operation Salvation (pages 1 and 2) for each child

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

HT-VBS Catechism – Day 1Catechism

LessonCreed: Rugrats of the Reformation, Pre-Heroic Pupils, and soon-to-be Scriptural Superheroes everywhere!

Today is the day we change history. For it is not just a desk you are sitting in, it is a desk of destiny! These are not just walls, they are a fortress of fortitude, outlets of OPPORTUNITY! For today you meet… Creed! Who is this purveyor of all things, you might you ask? ‘Tis I, the dashing hero standing before you! Conveyer of Clarity, Trainer in Truth, Cleaver of Darkness, and Lover of Cheese Sandwiches! Ours is an epic adventure buttressing ourselves against the worldly onslaught of Unbelief everywhere.

Don’t panic! We are learning about what we believe and, oh, that the Lord would guide our ways. People believe in a lot of things. They believe on Saint Patrick’s Day you should catch miniature green loan sharks and steal their gold, or that stepping on the wrong part of the sidewalk will put your mother in the hospital. I once asked a man what he believed in, and he said “fish tacos!” This is not a belief for the ages. Those belief leftovers will likely make you very sick. What are some of the things you believe in?

(Give the children an opportunity to answer about things that are important to them.)

Creed: I am Creed. By myself, I am not much. But with the Holy Spirit, I can never be vanquished! I am as bright as the sparkling stars on high and robed in the flowers of blooming spring! I have two unstoppable superpowers. First, I can help you learn what you believe in. In a world as shifting as sand – I come to you, and as Dr. Luther taught the Word of truth, I come to you, O tender youth. Once we figure all that out? Then we will be sent forth with God’s blessing our true faith confessing, the people of God may go to crafts, or snack or wherever your fearless crew leader tells you. Shall we begin?

Creed: NO! Not without my most steadfast tool! ‘Tis this…my trusty Epistolator! The scourge of untruth. Bringer of knowledge and pointer to Epistle-y things. We begin this great journey with a question. What is this belief we seek in the deepest recesses of our hearts and minds?

(BUZZ – point the Epistolator at Epistle #1 (Hebrews 11:1). Ask the children to look up and read the verse aloud.)

Creed: The hopes and fears of all the years! I hope for a lot of things I haven’t seen. I hope to ride a unicorn, I hope my lunch won’t get too soggy in my lunch bag. I hope my mom doesn’t notice I used her turkey baster to refill my ant farm. But I can’t live my whole life with these beliefs. Eventually I have to eat my lunch, and mom will find those slippery little antennaed escape artists and then what will I do! I will hide and starve. Epistolator! How do I learn what to believe?

(BUZZ – point the Epistolator at Epistle #2 (Romans 10:17). Ask the children to look up and read the verse aloud.)

Creed: Sweet anthems of angels, that is brilliant! You mean, if we just listen to God’s Word, He tells us Who He is? Oh, oh we’re going to have to take this out for a spin, my exegetical enthusiasts. Take that…

(BUZZ – point the Epistolator at Epistle #3 (Galatians 3:26). Ask the children to look up and read the verse aloud.)

Creed: God is our what?

(Allow the children to make the connection that God is our Father.)

Creed: Then sings my soul! I knew it! Now there is something to believe in! We are the progeny of perfection, the offspring of awesome, God’s own child, I gladly say it! But we are Lutheran! And we have an earthly dad. We can’t just replace him. That is rude and likely to be upsetting. So we ask the Lutheran Question…

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Higher Things – Crucified VBS

HT-VBS Catechism – Day 1Catechism

Everyone: What does this mean?

Creed: What does your father or grandfather, or even your mother do for you?

(Let the children brainstorm about ways their family helps to take care of them: to give them gifts, teach them, etc.)

Creed: Epistolator – O, gloom of darkness! You have failed me! Am I supposed to believe that God Almighty steps down from on High to be a short-order Chef and Chauffer for all of creation?

(BUZZ – point the Epistolator at Epistle #4 (James 1:17). Ask the children to look up and read the verse aloud.)

Creed: Well, I in awesome wonder! We should consider all the works His hand hath made. All our gifts come from God. Well, what else do we know about this Guy?

(BUZZ – point the Epistolator at Epistle #5 (Romans 1:20). Ask the children to look up and read the verse aloud.)

Creed: Even I, Creed, Illuminator of the Impossible, Expounder of the Unexplained. Even I do not have invisible attributes. My divine nature is borrowed from the Holy Spirit. I have to work really hard not to get any stains on it. We wither and perish, but naught changes Thee. Eternal power? That has got to come in handy. But what else do we know, Epistolator?

(BUZZ – point the Epistolator at Epistle #6 (Romans 8:28). Ask the children to look up and read the verse aloud.)

Creed: So when someone says, “God is out to get me,” we know that these words are coming from the foaming mouth that rests upon the devious head of Unbelief! Because God is what?

(Let the children respond, God is good.)

Creed: Oh, Giver of immortal gladness! That kind of goodness doesn’t just get you, it keeps you and smothers you in His love until you are hot and sweaty and you aren’t sure if you can breathe but you don’t care because it’s so awesome in its bountiful goodness! But, why, God? What wondrous love it this? Why are you so good?

(BUZZ – point the Epistolator at Epistle #7 (Titus 3:5). Ask the children to look up and read the verse aloud.)

Creed: Oh, for a thousand tongues to sing! What did I do to deserve this?

(Allow the children to answer – nothing.)

Creed: And now for my next trick. I, Creed the Magnificent, will astonish you with this, a device suited to our very purpose. It is the Catechator! Behold! I will place our Epistles INTO the Catechator like so, and from God’s Word is delivered a simple belief to sustain us for countless ages! (Creed places the day's Epistles into the machine, and pulls out the First Article and First Article explanation posters.)

Creed: Here it is, our statement of belief, words triumphant hurled in splendor through a broken world...

(The class reads the posters together.)

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HT-VBS Catechism – Day 1Catechism

Creed: That was insufficient hurling. Understand for a moment, teaching is not all that Creed is good for. Oh no, my faithful friends! It is good for hurling. I mean the good kind of hurling, hurling our voices! A Creed helps us to confess, or tell others about God. So to confound you even more, to envelop you in awe, I give you – the Confessionator! With this Confessionator, you can shout from mountaintops what you believe! Let’s try it again!

(The class reads the First Article and First Article Explanation posters together, again, loudly).

Creed: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty the King of Creation. I think you’ve got it. And if you think the Father is Almighty – just wait till you hear about His Son!

If time remains in the class, Creed may lead the kids in a round of Operation Salvation. Distribute Operation Salvation pages 1 and 2. Have the children cut out the gifts on page 2 and place them on and around the figure in the right places. Then, have students remove them and put them on the page in the order they appear in the explanation to the First Article.

What Does This Mean?1. In what way did God create us?

He created us by His Word and brings us into this world through our parents.

2. How does God still take care of us? Answers will vary, but mainly He provides us with the things we need to live.

3. What things has God given to us? Answers will vary; clothing, shoes, house, home, family, food, etc.

4. What does it mean that God sustains all creation? God made all things and so He continues to keep the world going by His grace, the sun shining, the grass growing, etc.

5. Do you think we deserve these things from God? We do not. He generously gives us what we need even without our asking!

6. What do we really deserve? Because we are born in sin, we turn away from God and others. We deserve God’s punishment in this life and forever.

7. Why does God do all of these things for us? He does them because He is our gracious heavenly Father. “Fatherly and divine goodness and mercy” is the reason.

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BibleBible Breakaways

Higher Things – Vacation Bible School

The Bible Study Leader’s Guide has all the daily lesson plans and materials that the Bible Study Leader will need.

Role of Bible Breakaway LeaderThe Bible Breakaway Leader will teach children the daily Bible story using the provided lesson and discussion questions. The stories are chosen to highlight the Catechism themes.

Bible Breakaway Leader’s GuideThe Leader’s Guide has all the daily lesson plans and information the Bible Breakaway Leader will need. Please be sure to review each day’s lessons well in advance and print or re-create the appropriate posters and materials for the lesson. Class discussion of the Bible lesson is provided in a scripted format to make sure everything is addressed within the alloted time for ease of use and to encourage class participation. Leaders are free use it as more of an outline if they are comfortable doing so.

We have included review questions for each day’s lesson. If time permits use this simple question and answer format to review the materials within each small group. Use this as an opportunity for each small group leader to get to know the children in his or her group.

ScriptsEach day’s material also includes a scripted lesson that tells, in a live-action and (hopefully) amusing way, the Bible story for each day’s theme. Costume suggestions have been provided in each day’s Leader’s Guide. The lines can be read as written or ad-libbed as long as they convey the general meaning and tone of the lesson. Actors should rehearse the skits prior to the day they will be used in Vacation Bible School.

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: TheCrucifixion(Mark15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: TheResurrection(Luke24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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Bible BreakawaysThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Bible

Lesson OverviewBible Story of the DayGenesis 3:1-19 – The Fall

PurposeThe focus for this Bible Breakaway is on the consequence of Adam and Eve’s fall, the sins which the students commit, and the salvation which God promises through the seed of Eve.

Objectives• Thechildrenwillreflectupontheirownsinfulcondition,whichtheyhaveinheritedfromAdamandEveand

which manifests itself in the sins they have committed, so they might see their own need for a Savior.• ThechildrenwilllearnthepromiseGodmadeconcerningJesusinGenesis3:15sothattheycanapply

this promise to themselves and believe God has promised to save them too.

Room Set UpMaterials

• Two sets of wings• Snake• Tree• Apple• Remote Control• Poster board bushes for Adam and Eve.

The Harold AngelsEachday’slessonisexplainedandnarratedbytwo“HaroldAngels.”TheHaroldAngelscanbemaleorfemale,andshouldbecostumedasoverallsporting,pro-flannel,urban-challengedindividuals,eachwithasetofwings.TheHaroldAngelsshouldstandcasuallyonthesidesoftheclassroomandoneofthemshouldhavearemotecontrol.

Adam and EveAdam and Eve should be clothed and wearing sandwich board bushes at the opening of the sketch.

The Snake and the TreeThesnakecanbealargestuffedanimalormadefromalargegarbagebagandeitheraliveorrecordedvoice.The tree should be placed in the center of the room, holding the snake with an apple attached to it.

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BibleLesson

Harold2: Hi.I’mHarold.ThisismybrotherHarold.

Harold1: Hark!We’retheHaroldangels.(Harold begins singing badly…) Get it?

Harold2: IamprettysuretheygetitHarold.HaroldandIhavebeenaroundalongtimeandwe’veseenalotof things. We watched most of the glorious days of Creation.

Harold1: Day6rocked.

Harold2: No,rockswereDay3.

Harold1: IknowrockswasDay3.Day6waswhenHemadethosemonkeys–youknow,theoneswiththefunny bottoms? We all had a giggle that day. Even God, everybody – ‘cept maybe the monkey.

Harold2: FocusHarold.LikeIwassayin’.We’reangels.Butnotallangelsarealike.Someangelshavefallen.

Harold1: Heynow!IknowI’vebeenonafewpounds.But….

Harold2: Youhaven’tfallenHarold,you’vejustletyourselfslipalittle.Iamtalkingabouttheangelwhohasfallen completely.

Harold1: Today’sisanawfulstory.It’sthestoryofthedaythatangelcausedallmannerofmischiefandtrouble.

Harold2: Yousee,therewasaserpentinthatgarden.Butnotjustanyserpent,theBibletellsusthissnakewas evil and smart.

Harold1: Listenup,hereheistalkingtoEve. (Harold unpauses the action with his remote.)

Snake: (Voice over.) DidGodactuallysay“YoushallnoteatofanytreeintheGarden?”

Eve: WemayeatofanytreeintheGarden–butNOTthetreeinthemiddle.Notthistree.Wecannoteven touch this tree or we will die.

Harold1: (Pausing and unpausing the remote.) She did okay Eve – but that ol’ snake wasn’t done.

Snake: Oh,youwillnotdie!

Harold1: (Pausing and unpausing the remote.) Can you tell he’s lying? There is a secret way to tell if a snake is lyingtoyou:Hislipsaremoving.See.

Snake: God knows when you eat of this fruit your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.

Harold2: (Taking the remote, Pausing and unpausing.) I hate this part. This is where it all starts. Eve forgot something.MankindwasalreadymadeinGod’simage.Iwasn’tmadeinGod’simage.

Harold1: YoucansaythatagainHarold.

Harold2: Hushup,Harold.ButAdamandEveweremadeinHisimage.Buttheywantedmore.(Unpause the action and Harold 2 narrates.) She thought that tree was beautiful, and the apple so tasty, and she wanted to be wise, so she took a bite – and then she handed it to her husband and he took a bite.

Harold1: Istillcan’tbelievehedidn’tsayanything.Henamedthatsnake.Heshouldaknownbetter.Heshouldanamedthatsnake“Liar.”Haveyoueverhearda“Liar,liarpantsonfire?”Uh-huh.Ain’tneverseen a snake with pants on either have ya?

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BibleHarold2: Butitwasdone.AdamandEvetrustedthesnake–thatoldfallenangel–insteadofGod.God

walkedwiththemeverydayintheGarden,buttheystilldidn’ttrustinHisWord.

Harold1: Itdidn’ttakelongforthemtoseetheywerenotlikeGodanymore…well,nottotally.Theyhadsinned.

Harold2: Theywereashamedofthemselves.Theyeventriedtocoverthemselvesandtheirsinwithfigleaves.

Harold1: Itwasliketryin’tohideahippopotamusinyourbackpack.Howdoyouthinkthatworkedoutforthem? (Badly is the answer we are looking for.)Youcain’thidesin.Youhavetoeraseit.Whatistheonly thing that can take away our sin? (Christ on the Cross.)

Harold2: GodwentforHiswalkwiththemthatday.Heknewwhathadhappened.

Harold1: Healwaysdoes.

Harold2: ButHehadaplaninplacealready.

Harold1: Hehadanemergencyevilsnakeplan.Thatguythinksofeverything.

Harold2: (Demonstrating the words and actions of God, walks over to the snake.)Hewalkedovertothatsnakeandsaid“Becauseyouhavedonethis,youarecursedabovealllivestockandbeastsofthefield.(Harold tosses the snake to the floor.)Iwillputenmitybetweenyouandthewoman.”

Harold1: That’sright!Heputan“M”anda“T”rightbetweenthatsnakeandthewoman.

Harold2: NoHarold,“Enmity.”Itisafancywayofsayin’“hatred.”

Harold1: Wellitworked.InallmyyearsIain’tseenmemanyladiesthatlikesnakes.

Harold2: Butherecomesthebestpart,it’salittlesneakpeekintothefuture.Hesaid,“Heroffspringshallcrushyourhead,andyoushallbruiseHisheel.”

Harold1: AdamandEveweren’tsurewhoGodwastalkingaboutwhenHesaid,“Eve’soffspring.”Doyouknow? (Jesus.)

Harold2: Whatdoyouthinkismoreimportant?Yourhead?Oryourheel?”(Head.)

Harold1: Iain’tnodoctor,butifyourheadiscrushed,youhavesomeprettyseriousmedicalissues.Whendidthe snake bruise Jesus heel? (When he died on the cross.)

Harold2: ThereisalotthatcamewithAdamandEve’sbaddecisionthatday.GodexplainedtoAdamandEvethatalongwithsincomeshardwork,pain,sicknessanddeath.HesentthemoutoftheGarden.Outintotheworld.Intheworldthereissin,deathandthepoweroftheDevil.ButAdamandEvewerenotalone.Godiswiththem,justlikeHeiswithus.Andevenbetterthanthat,onthisawfulday,thedaythatlyingDevilseemedtowin–GodsentAdamandEveoutintotheworldwiththepromiseofa Savior.

What Does This Mean?1. In what way did Adam and Eve fall into sin?

They disobeyed and did not trust God’s Word, and so ate from the Tree of Knowledge He told them not to eat from.

2. What curses did God place upon them because of their sin? The woman would have pain in childbearing and desire her husband’s authority. The man was to work the ground. People would now die and return to dust.

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Bible3. In what way to we have to live with these same curses?

All of these are still with us.

4. What sins have you committed? Answers will vary; probably lots of examples about not honoring father and mother, not paying attention to God’s Word, hurting others, etc.

5. WhatpromisedidGodmakerightaway,evenbeforeHecursedAdamandEve? He promised to send a Savior, who would be born of a woman, be the devil’s enemy and ultimately defeat the devil.

6. WhoisEve’s“seed”? “Seed” means offspring, but in this particular instance, the child who would be born of woman is Jesus.

7. In what way can we put our faith and hope in this promise too? Even though we sin, God’s promise was fulfilled. Jesus was born, died, and rose and forgives our sins and gives us eternal life. He takes away the curse!

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MusicMusic

Higher Things – Vacation Bible School

This section is for the Music Leader. There are from one to five hymns suggested for learning during the week as time and resources permit. We suggest that the Music Leader hand out the full music sheets (with notes) and indicate which verses will be learned that day.

Role of Music LeaderThe primary role of the Music Leader is to help the children to learn and, if possible, learn “by heart” the hymns of the week. Music time is a fun and educational opportunity for the children. Through the music, the children will learn to sing hymns, have the theme and lessons for each day reinforced, and continue to hear of the Father’s Promises, Christ’s work, and the Spirit’s gifts.

Teaching Hymns to ChildrenChildren eagerly learn new songs, especially ones that they know they will sing in church with the grownups. Take time to explain the meaning of the hymn and its vocabulary. Discuss with the children how the hymn helps us remember and confess the Father’s promises, Christ’s work as Savior, and the Spirits gifts.

Music HandoutsThere are several resources provided for teaching the words of the hymns. In the following pages, there are handouts both with and without musical notation. In the Music Folder of the VBS files, there are hymn slides (.JPG picture files) of each stanza. These could be placed in a PowerPoint presentation, projected individually, or inserted into a document to print out and give to the children for the stanzas being taught that day.

Music Accompaniment FilesThe Music folder of the VBS materials contains audio organ accompaniment files for the suggested hymns and stanzas. These can be used if an organist or musician is not available to play them. They can be played with any digital music player (iPod, etc.) you could also put them on a CD and distribute them to the students as resources permit. The content of each MP3 audio file is indicated in its file name.

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: The Crucifixion (Mark 15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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MusicSuggested Hymns

Because congregations have varying resources to teach music and time to do so, we have included two charts with suggestions for teaching one or more hymns during the week. The first chart shows suggestions for learning from one to all five hymns for the week. The second chart presents options for just learning one hymn for the entire week. Please note that in the included handouts, only those stanzas are included which are used in these suggestions (not necessarily the entire hymn). “Sing My Tongue, the Glorious Battle” (LSB 454) is the hymn chosen for the “Crucified” conference theme and is the suggested hymn to be learned throughout the week if only one hymn is to be taught.

1 Hymn 2 Hymns 3 Hymns 4 Hymns 5 HymnsMonday 454, st. 1 454, st. 1 248 562 562

Tuesday 454, st. 2 454, st, 2-3 248 248 248

Wednesday 454, st. 3 454, st. 4-5 454 454 454

Thursday 454, st. 4-5 461, st. 1-2 461, st. 1-2 461, st. 1-2 461, st. 1-2, 5, 7

Friday 454, st. 1-5 461, st. 5, 7 461, st. 5, 7 461, st. 5, 7 498, st. 1, 5-6

If you’d like to only teach one hymn for the week of Vacation Bible School, here are some additional options to break up the stanzas for each of the hymns included above.

248 454 461 498 562Monday Refrain, st. 1 1 1 1 1

Tuesday 2 2 2 4 2

Wednesday 3 3 5 5 3

Thursday 4 4 7 6 4

Friday 5 5 8 7 5-6

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SnacksSnacks

Higher Things – Vacation Bible SchoolThis section will address the needs of the Snack Coordinator. In it are suggestions for setting up and operating a snack area during VBS, as well as instructions and recipes for themed snacks to go with each day’s lesson.

Role of the Snack CoordinatorThemed snack ideas have been provided to serve as an outgrowth of the theme and lessons for each day. Snack time is not meant to replace a meal. It functions as a time for the children to have fun and unwind.

Preparing snack for those with food allergies/sensitivities and diabetes special needs will be an important part of snack time. The VBS Director should have a list of all children with special dietary needs as identified on their Registration Forms.

Snack Area Set-UpMost of the activity in the snack area takes place before and after the children arrive. Below is a checklist of some of the things most congregations will need:

• List of special dietary needs, including allergies/sensitivities, diabetes, etc.• A schedule of the time(s) when the children will be eating snacks• List of supplies needed• Number of children preregistered• A count of the children during each day’s Opening devotion

We also suggest setting up water and/or lemonade stations outside of the snack preparation area so participants and leaders have constant access to water, particularly for a daytime program.

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: The Crucifixion (Mark 15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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SnacksSnacksThe Father Promises1day

Theme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

A World Covered in SinDescriptionToday’s snack is mix of things relating to God and His creation. Fill a clear cup of snack mix for each participant. Use any of the following items or even throw in some ideas of your own. Quantities will depend on the size of cup you use, and the number of children present.

Supplies• Clear snack cup• Graham cracker crumbs• Animal crackers• Yellow and white gum drops• Gingerbread men• Gummy worms• Swedish Fish• Green fruit roll up pieces• Crumbled Oreo cookies

Instructions1. Put a small layer of Graham cracker crumbs in the bottom of the cup. 2. Combine the animal crackers, gum drops, gingerbread men, gummy worms and Swedish fish in a large

bowl. Put about a ½ cup of the mixture on top of the graham cracker crumbs.3. Garnish the sides of the cup with the green fruit roll-up pieces. Sprinkle the entire cup with black cookie

crumbs.

What Does This Mean?1. What parts of the creation story do you see in

today’s snack? Fruit roll up leaves, animals, man, fish, even the snake.

2. God made all of these things for us out of His Fatherly divine goodness and mercy. But what is this black stuff all over God’s good creation? Cookies – really, but sin might also come up.

3. What else is covering over God’s creation? Sin.

4. When Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, they brought sin into the lives of every part of creation. Today’s “sin,” we are going to eat because it is cookie-flavored. Tomorrow, we will learn about God’s plan of forgiveness to get rid of our sins completely!

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GamesGames

Higher Things – Vacation Bible School

This section is for the Games Leader. Listed here are some suggested games that you might play with the children during VBS. Game time is a time for the children to have fun and spend some of their energy.

Role of the Games LeaderHere are some tips for your game leader:

1. Take time to insure the safety of the participants by marking or blocking any potential hazards (sprinkler heads, rocks, poison ivy, etc.).

2. Keepthegameareaawayfromanyheavytrafficareas.3. Provide plenty of water, sunscreen and even a mist tent if VBS takes place on a particularly warm day. 4. Have a contingency plan for those times when weather does not allow you to be outside.

Set-Up for Game AreaIt is important that the Games Leader have space in which the children can be loud and have fun without disrupting the other VBS activities. Each game helps retell part of the day’s lesson from either the Bible Breakaway or Catechism session. Don’t forget the “What does this mean?” discussion at the end of each class!

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: TheCrucifixion(Mark15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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Games

Theme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

How Low Can You GO?(Indoor or Outdoor)

ObjectiveLean over backward far enough to pass under a stick without falling.

Materials• Astick,ribbonorpoleatleastthreefeetinlength.Foraddedeffectthestickcanbecoveredinvinesand

apples to make it look like a tree.• Music–itisnotnecessary,butitcertainlyisfun!

Rules for the Game1. Choose two people, the taller the better, to hold either end of the limbo stick. 2. Linethechildrenupsinglefile.3. Each child must walk under the limbo stick without leaning forward.4. Any child unable to get under the limbo stick without falling over has succumbed to “Sin” and must sit

out the remainder of the game.5. Once each child has passed successfully under the limbo stick, lower the stick.6. Repeat this process until, like Adam, every child has “fallen”.

What Does This Mean?1. The question we always ask with the Limbo is “How low can you go?” Unfortunately, we get pretty low

when we sin too. How many of you eventually fell over in the Limbo game? Everyone.

2. Like in the Limbo, how many people fell into sin when Adam and Eve fell into sin? Everyone.

3. Can we help ourselves from falling into sin? We cannot help ourselves, but God helps us.

4. We know that God the Father created the world and has given us wonderful gifts. Which of God’s gifts help us overcome sin? He has given us his only Son, the Bible, Baptism, Communion…

5. We know that we are by nature sinful and unclean. We sin against God in everything that we do. We cannot help but to fall over. But in His fatherly, divine goodness and mercy God sent us His Son to save us from our sin.

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HT-VBS Games – Day 1Games

Spreading Sin(Indoor/Outdoor)

ObjectiveAvoid the snakes or succumb to sin!

Materials• Grassorcarpetedfloorspacewheresomeonecancomfortablycrawl.• Designated boundaries for the game using cones, tape, etc.

Rules1. Designate an area for game play with tape, chalk, cones, etc. 2. Pick two volunteers. These volunteers will be the “snakes” for the game. The “snakes” have to get on

their hands and knees. 3. “Snakes” can only crawl with their hands and knees. The purpose of the game is to not be tagged by

the “snakes.” If a “snake” tags someone, the person becomes a “snake.”4. If someone runs out of the boundaries, they automatically become “snakes”.5. Once you say “Snake In the Grass,” the game begins and everyone can run around. The last person

standing wins the game.

What Does This Mean?Justlikeinourgame,sincameintotheworldthroughoneperson,Adam.WelearninRomans5:15thatjustassincame to all of us through one man, we are also redeemed by one man. Jesus is that New Adam who redeems us.

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CraftsCrafts

Higher Things – Vacation Bible School

This section is for the Craft Coordinator. It lists suggestions for making crafts that reinforce the theme of each day’s Bible and Catechism lessons.

Role of the Craft CoordinatorMaterial lists and instructions have been provided each day for a simple and inexpensive craft idea. We also provide a list of suggested preparations to be completed before class. In some cases there are options within the instructions for groups of varying sizes. Younger children will probably need help with scissor work and taping, and you may want to have some extra volunteers on hand for that activity.

Here are some helpful hints for setting up your craft area:

1. Pair older children or a volunteer with participants that may need help with cutting and taping. 2. Premakeonesamplecraftpertablesoeachgroupcanseethefinalproductastheywork.3. Order extra supplies in case of mistakes.4. Each craft relates to the day’s lesson. Don’t forget to ask, “What does this mean?”5. Most importantly, have fun!

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: TheCrucifixion(Mark15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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Crafts

Theme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Fall of Man Sin Globes

Materials• One wide-rimmed plain glass jar with lid per child• Green spray paint• 1 Tablespoon of black glitter• Two standing miniature plastic people*• 1 miniature plastic tree• Various colored paints• Hot glue• Water• Paint brushes (optional)

* Some miniature plastic people can be found at craft stores or dollar stores, but they usually have an accompanying theme. For plain miniature people we suggest looking into scale model plastic architectural miniatures or hobby stores that carry plastic miniature people for train enthusiasts.

Preparation1. Besureyourplastictreeandyourminiaturepeoplewillfit

together through the mouth of your glass jar.2. Spray paint the underside of jar lids green.3. Paint your miniature people with skin tones and leaf

coverings to look like one Adam and one Eve.

Directions1. Give each child a green lid, an Adam, an Eve and a tree. 2. GlueAdam,EveandtheTreetotheundersideofthejarlid.Becertainthefigureswillallfitinsidethe

mouth of the jar.3. Whiletheglueisdrying,fillthejarwithwaterandoneTablespoonofblackglitter.4. Oncetheglueforthefiguresdriescompletely,placehotglueontheoutsideringofthejar.5. Turn the lid upside down, placing Adam, Eve and the Tree upside down into the jar of water and glitter.6. Seal the lid closed with a second ring of hot glue. 7. Using the paint, have each child either place their own hand prints around the outside of the jar or paint

hands on the outside of the jar with a brush.

What Does This Mean?The black glitter reminds us that when Adam and Eve sinned, their sin covered all of God’s creation. Sin is still part of our world today. But we put hands on the outside of our jar as a reminder. We are God’s creation. We are in His hands and He has a plan for our sins, one that leaves us with His salvation.

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ClosingClosings

Higher Things – Vacation Bible School

This section is a resource for the leader who will be leading Closing worship. In most cases this will be the pastor. The closing devotions are an adaptation from the “Daily Prayers for Individuals and Family” from Lutheran Service Book (pages 294-298). A morning edition and an evening edition are provided depending upon what part of the day you are having your VBS.

Set UpClosings should take place in the sanctuary, and all leaders should encourage appropriate behavior in the Lord’s house. Images for each day’s Bible story have been provided and should be displayed each day. These images may be enlarged and traced onto newsprint or even made into fabric banners.

HomiliesThe Closing prayer offices are designed to contain a brief (5-10 minute) homily to review the day’s lessons. We suggest that the homily be preached to the children by the pastor, from the pulpit just like it would be done on Sunday so that children will see that the “services” at VBS is not disconnected from Sunday morning’s Divine Service. If your pastor is not available, a designated leader should review the bulleted points with the kids.

Theme and Scripture for Each DayTheme: The Father PromisesBible Story: The Fall (Genesis 3:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, First Article

Theme: Christ, True God and True ManBible Story: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 1

Theme: Christ CrucifiedBible Story: The Crucifixion (Mark 15:21-47)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 2

Theme: Christ RisenBible Study: The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Second Article, Part 3

Theme: The Spirit’s GiftsBible Study: The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)Catechism: The Apostles’ Creed, Third Article

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Morning ClosingThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Closing

The sign of the cross T may be made by all in remembrance of their Baptism.

L In the name of the Father and of the T Son and of the Holy Spirit.C Amen.

L Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea;C Hear me and answer me.

L Evening, morning and noonC I cry out in distress, and He hears my voice.

L Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you;C He will never let the righteous fall.

C Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Hymn of the Day

Scripture ReadingHebrews 11:3

Homily/Catechetical Review• A creed is a statement of belief used for teaching and confessing our faith.• God the Father loves each of us as His own creation. • God is Holy and divine.• God, who is good, provides each and every one of us with gifts.• God is merciful to us, even to the point of sending His only Son to die for our sins.

L O Lord, C Have mercy upon us.L O Christ, C Have mercy upon us.L O Lord, C Have mercy upon us.

Apostles’ Creed

Lord’s Prayer

Concluding PrayerL Heavenly Father, send Your Holy Spirit into our hearts to direct and rule us according to Your will, to comfort us in all our afflictions, to defend us from all error, and to lead us into all truth; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.C Amen.

L Let us bless the Lord.C Thanks be to God.

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Evening ClosingThe Father Promises1day

Higher Things – Crucified VBS

Closing

The sign of the cross T may be made by all in remembrance of their Baptism.

L In the name of the Father and of the T Son and of the Holy Spirit.C Amen.

L The Lord Almighty grant us a quiet night and peace at the last.C Amen.

L It is good to give thanks to the Lord,C to sing praise to Your name, O Most High;

L To herald Your love in the morning,C Your truth at the close of the day.

Hymn of the Day

Scripture ReadingHebrews 11:3

Homily/Catechetical Review• A creed is a statement of belief used for teaching and confessing our faith.• God the Father loves each of us as His own creation. • God is Holy and divine.• God, who is good, provides each and every one of us with gifts.• God is merciful to us, even to the point of sending His only Son to die for our sins.

Apostles’ Creed

C Lord, now You let Your servant go in peace; Yourwordhasbeenfulfilled. My own eyes have seen the salvation which You have prepared in the sight of every people: A light to reveal You to the nations and the glory of Your people Israel. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Lord’s Prayer

Concluding PrayersL Visit our dwellings, O Lord, and in Your great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the

love of Your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ.C Amen.

C I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have graciously kept me this day; and I pray that You would forgive me all my sins where I have done wrong, and graciously keep me this night. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.

L Let us bless the Lord.C Thanks be to God.

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