Email
Last week, I mentioned my trip to Colorado to check out the VBS field test for Group’s 2011 theme. It’s a panda bear themed Bible school with the tagline, “Where God is wild about you.” Now that I’m back in Indiana, I’ve had some time to edit my video clips into something coherent. So check out my preview video of PandaMania VBS for an inside look at this new theme.
Update: You can listen to my audio interview with Shannon from Group VBS to get more tips for planning your Vacation Bible School.
As you could gather from the video, this was an amazing experience for me and my son David. It was our first trip out West and we made some priceless memories. It was also my first time seeing an all-out production of a Group VBS. Here are a few of my first impressions. We’ll write a full review this winter when the starter kits become available for 2011.
Fun & Creative:
I alway think of Group Publishing as the most creative VBS producer. This experience has confirmed that impression. Every aspect of the program aims to find new ways to make VBS memorable and positive for the kids. I’m not an overly creative type, so I really appreciate their passion in this area.
They Tested Everything:
Going into this, I had no idea how completely they were going to test every element. After lunch each day, we met and rehashed all the morning’s events. For most stations they were testing several variation each day. They listened to feedback and worked hard to make things better. I remember Joni Schultz saying to the team about some minor tweak, “Ok let’s just keep testing and get it right.” That seemed like the attitude all around and it was very refreshing.
The Group People Were Really Nice:
I will write more about this later, but I was impressed and inspired by the people who work for Group. I can’t think of another set of Christians who have so much kindness, patience, and dedication to their work. It humbled me and challenged me to bring a little of their attitude back to my church.
Some Concerns:
As I mentioned in the video, this VBS might not be right for every church. Group’s VBS aims to be inter-denominational in it’s approach to children and salvation. Some churches prefer more specific content in their children’s ministry material. I felt like the concept of sin was largely omitted in their teaching. Even with their attempt to leave things open-ended for churches to adapt, I still thought it could have been stronger. I think the theme would still work at my church (where doctrine is a real priority), but only after we add some content.
Overall I was impressed with the PandaMania theme. It will certainly make my top 3 themes when I present to my leadership team this Fall. If you are a fan of Group VBS or just looking for a creative theme for 2011, this one deserves careful consideration. Check out their official website to learn more. You can also learn more on Group’s Facebook Page and YouTube Channel
Are you researching 2011 VBS curriculum? Then browse all our information about the new 2011 Bible School themes? You might also enjoy our articles and practical suggestions for doing Vacation Bible School at your church.
Related posts:
- Group VBS 2011 Theme Announced: PandaMania
- LifeWay 2011 VBS Theme Announced: Big Apple Adventure
- Group’s High Sea Expedition VBS Theme for 2010
- Group’s 2010 VBS Theme Teaser!
- Inside Cokesbury VBS: An Interview With Michael Aulisio
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I am so excited about our Panda VBS this year. I for one do not have any problem with them name and honestly, what kid is going to either? Kung Fu Panda 2 is has just opened and I plan to play on that as I spread the word.
Perfect timing. My 16 year old told me Kung Fu Panda is coming out this summer and the Jr High kids are ..yes.. actualllyexcited about the Panda theme. great choice
I’m not crazy about the whole Panda bear theme, it’s rather babyish for Jr. High. And I agree with Ms. Stepanenko, that the use of the word Pandemonium is not good. I like the “where God is wild about you!” That could be an entire jungle animal theme and the games for our carnival at the end of the week could be sort of circus like. Safari or Circus sort of title and theme would have been better.
I believe that the name for this theme is completely inappropriate.
The word Pandemonium which is very close to your Pandamonium means confusion and chaos. It does mean uproar but not in a good way. It is also the capitol of Hell in Milton’s Paradise Lost, and the first thing I thought of when I read your theme name. The name should be researched and carefully considered before you use it. Words are very powerful. We need to remember that In the beginning was the Word. Souls can be turned to God and away from God from words that they hear.
Thanks for the input. I think the Group VBS title is something of a play on words. The theme features Panda bears and features the tagline “Where God is wild about you.” I’m almost certain any children who have read Milton will be sophisticated enough to discern a new meaning is intended.
I do appreciate your opinion and agree that words are very powerful. However, my experience with the theme was very positive.
Can’t wait for you to see the final product, Tony! I think you’ll see some of your suggestions put into place.
It was really a great experience and I was impressed at how well all the Group staff listened to the ideas of the field testers.