Nearly 50 Nazarene volunteers spread out over five towns in Armenia last summer and fall to hold Vacation Bible Schools and camps for children and teens, serving more than 350 children and reaching many parents.

In Sevan, a poor city with many economic and social difficulties, there are few services or positive activities for residents to engage in. The only entertainment place is a sport club, but most parents are not able to afford the monthly fee. People see the only way forward for their families is to leave, so there is a high level of migration.

Five Nazarene volunteers took the initiative to minister to the youth of Sevan in cooperation with the local parents and youth. Seventy-five children participated in a three-day VBS. The children were excited about this unusual opportunity. One of the children said that he has never colored pictures before, and he learned how to do it for the first time during VBS.

The VBS focused on talents and serving God. Leaders invited local professionals to share with the children about their vocations and give the children advice on choosing their future careers.

Afterward, the leaders gave each guest professional a Bible, and the children told them interesting facts they had learned from the Bible during the VBS.

One guest, who is a doctor, was amazed when a child told her that Luke, the Gospel writer, was also a doctor.

“[The doctor] said that not only does she have something to give to the kids, but also there are a lot of things she needs to learn from them," VBS leaders reported. "After the VBS, she shared that she has started reading the Bible."

After making the initial contacts and relationships through the VBS, Nazarenes continue to minister in Sevan, visiting the children once a month. They also held a meeting with parents to explain how the Nazarenes fit within the broader Protestant movement and the overall Body of Christ, and that they just want to share the love of God with the people of Sevan.

The local Nazarenes’ dream for next year is to hold a five-day VBS in Sevan to continue sharing the hope of God with children and teenagers.

In another town, Nazarenes held a special VBS for Syrian-Armenian children who have fled with their parents from Syria because of the civil war there.

The VBS program generally includes games and activities, an English class, craft sessions, Bible reading, and prayer and worship time. Volunteers also involve the parents in planning and carrying out the VBS. This gives an opportunity for the volunteers to spend time with the parents, as well, who are mostly unfamiliar with biblical beliefs. While working together, the volunteers share their values, faith, and God’s love.

A number of teenagers also assisted, most of whom formerly attended VBS as children. One of these is Valerie*, 13, who now attends the Nazarene teen club. Through these ministries to children and youth, Valerie has given her life to Jesus and is eagerly growing in her relationship with Him, as well as helping in the children’s ministry. Nora* also has given her life to God and has helped with VBS and camps throughout the summer.

--Church of the Nazarene Eurasia

*Names changed for privacy.