MPN Vacation Bible School Materials Praised by Educators

Based on past experience, Christian educator Lucinda Stevens was eager to order Mennonite Publishing Network's 2011 Vacation Bible School curriculum, Taste & See: God is Good. Stevens, assistant director of The Resource Center in Richmond, Virginia, ordered Taste & See prior to an annual VBS workshop in February. "People at our center specifically ask for MPN's materials," says Stevens. "They expect MPN to offer good quality, biblically sound materials that work well across denominational lines."

Stevens, also education coordinator at her own (Episcopal) church, uses MPN's materials because they "teach children that faith can be fun, without taking a 'Disney' approach. I especially like the dramas because they're a great way to include junior high kids in the program."

Taste & See was recently selected a "Top Pick" by the Center for the Ministry of Teaching at Virginia Theological Seminary. In an annual review of 19 publishers' VBS materials, Taste & See was one of four curriculums named. The Center's review highlights Taste & See's "refreshingly concise" format, fun songs, and daily worship experiences. MPN's VBS materials have been selected a Top Pick the past five years.

Taste & See uses daily Bible stories, worship, games, crafts and activities to help children age four through grade 8 look at food through the eyes of faith.

"It's really about looking at our food differently," says Mary Ann Weber, managing curriculum editor for MPN. "As children hear Bible stories about manna in the wilderness, or the woman who shares her last bit of food, or Jesus offering himself as bread and wine, they find out how the food we eat every day can be a reminder of God. It's an inspiring theme—all about gratitude and generosity, and even 'spiritual food'."

Although created for Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada congregations, Taste & See has also been ordered by Baptist, Brethren, Episcopal, and United Church of Christ groups. "This isn't unusual—we normally have a mix of purchasers, especially for VBS," says customer service representative Alma Unrau. "It's always fun to hear from people in other denominations. They seem glad to find our materials."

Taste & See is adaptable to either a five-day or a 12-week plan. Daily Bible themes, product details, and order information may be found at www.mpn.net/vbs.