By Marcia Omar
San Mateo Episcopal Church recently came alive with the laughter, learning, and excitement of its 2025 Vacation Bible School (VBS). Thanks in part to a Formation Micro-Grant from the Office of Formation in the Diocese of Texas: The church was transformed into a vibrant camp adventure, where children, families, and volunteers gathered to grow in faith, friendship, and community. The grant made it possible to create lasting memories, serve the congregation, and share the love of Christ with the local neighborhood.
Here, Marcia Omar, Program Director of San Mateo Episcopal Church VBS, shares more about this project that became a reality:
“We are filled with immense gratitude for the generous grant that made our 2025 Vacation Bible School at San Mateo Episcopal Church possible. This year’s program was a vibrant, joy-filled week that brought children, families, and volunteers together to grow in faith, friendship, and community. Your support was instrumental in helping us serve our congregation and reach into the heart of our neighborhood with the love of Christ.”
Transforming Our Church into a Camp Adventure
Thanks to the grant, the church campus was completely transformed into a themed “camp adventure,” providing children with an engaging and faith-centered environment. With creative decorations, interactive learning stations, and colorful displays, the setting brought the VBS theme to life and sparked enthusiasm in participants from the moment they walked through the door.
Serving Our Children: 52 Registered, 42 Attended
This year, 52 children were registered for VBS, and 42 attended throughout the week. While the program was prepared to welcome all 52, stormy weather may have affected attendance. Nevertheless, the children who attended experienced a joyful, safe, and enriching week filled with hands-on activities, worship, games, and daily Bible lessons.
Community Outreach and Partnership
More than half of the children who participated were from surrounding neighborhoods, many of whom were not previously connected to the church. This was a significant milestone in outreach and inclusion. The grant allowed barriers to be removed, extending a heartfelt welcome to families in the local community.
A particularly impactful partnership was established with Nativity Academy, a school serving underprivileged children. Through this collaboration, VBS was promoted at the school multiple times, significantly boosting participation. Transportation was provided from the school to the church, ensuring access for children who might not have been able to attend otherwise.
Volunteers of All Ages: A Church United in Service
The program was powered by an incredible team of volunteers spanning generations—from energetic youth group members to wise and dedicated elders. This multigenerational collaboration brought fresh energy and a deep sense of unity to the program. Volunteers led small groups, prepared snacks, organized games, taught lessons, and prayed over the children each day. Their service was truly the heartbeat of VBS.
Friday Nature Field Trip: A First-Time Adventure for Many
One of the most meaningful highlights was a Friday nature field trip, made possible through the grant. Students visited a beautiful outdoor park—a first-time experience for many—riding paddle boats, a small train, and a carousel. The day was filled with laughter and wonder, providing children with an opportunity to experience God’s creation and expand their view of the world.
Closing Celebration: Water Day and Worship
The week concluded with a Water Splash Day, featuring water slides, music, games, and food for children and their families—a joyful community event that strengthened relationships. The program ended with a special Sunday worship service, where children shared what they learned and performed the VBS theme song, bringing many parents and relatives to the church, some for the very first time.
A Ripple Effect of Blessing
VBS 2025 was more than a week-long program—it was an evangelistic outreach, a community-builder, and a celebration of faith. It created a lasting impact on every child, volunteer, and family involved. The generous grant enabled the church to dream big, reach wide, and serve well. The seeds planted during VBS 2025 are sure to flourish in the hearts of these children for years to come.
With deepest appreciation,
Marcia Omar & Syed Omar
Program Directors, San Mateo Episcopal Church Vacation Bible School
