First Congregational Church
of Essex, MA
Receiving and extending the hospitality of Jesus
as we connect with God, one another, & our community.
Summer & Christmas Programs
VBS
Our mission is to bring the word of God to the children of our congregation along with the community. Vacation Bible School or Summer Camp happens one week out of the summer for 2-5 days for 2-3 hours/day and our church is magically transformed into an amazing adventure land for learning. Children ages Pre-K to 8th grade come together to experience God’s word through Bible points, verses, and stories reinforced through fun outdoor games, crafts/science projects, interactive story telling, themed snacks, and fun songs & dances!
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The children also learn to watch for “God sightings”, make new friends and above all leave here knowing God loves them no matter what. All this is presented & supervised by the talented members of our congregation who make it all come alive! Click on the link below to see the video for this year’s VBS adventure. You DO NOT need to attend our church to join us for VBS, and friends and family are always welcome to learn about God and join in the fun!
God's love & safety are our priorities! Your children are lead by experienced camp (VBS) adults and teenagers-in-training who have all had background checks by the state and we follow strict safety procedures at all times. Some are CPR & First Aid certified as well. We are also in very close proximity to our fire and police station. ​
Dates: July 16-19 (Thurs-Sun)
Cost: $20/child, $35 max/family (scholarships avail., contact us)
Hours: 5:30-8 p.m. (2.5 hours of God's love & fun!)
Ages: Pre-K (age 4) to grade 8 (middle school)
Safety: God's love & safety are our priorities!
[Your children are lead by experienced camp (VBS) adults and teenagers in training who have had background checks by the state and we follow strict safety procedures at all times. Some are CPR & First Aid certified as well. We are also in very close proximity to our fire and police station.]
Rainforest Falls Daily Camp Summary...
Kids will experience "a faith-driven adventure rooted in helping kids grow in their relationship with God. Each day at Rainforest Falls, kids trek into field-tested rotations that reinforce relevant Bible Points and immerse kids in new adventures." They are placed in groups that they stay with all four days supervised by experienced adult leaders and teenage helpers. They rotate every 20mins with 5mins of travel time in the rainforest to get to a new station.
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Sing & Play Tune Lagoon
"Start the day with high-energy music, and meet a new Bible Memory Buddy each day." We learn songs & motions, daily bible points and verses which our buddies help us to remember. This takes place in the sanctuary.
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Rooted Bible Adventures
"Kids plunge into powerful Bible stories that showcase the true nature of God." This takes place in the YG room, where they get immersed into the story and become a part of it!
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Jungle Imagination Station
"Imagination Station is the sciencey-fun spot for creativity, discovery, and unbe-leaf-able faith connections!" This takes place in the large classroom & sometimes outside.
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Wild Games
"Combines untamed fun with meaningful learning about each day’s Bible Point!" This takes place on the lawn behind the church. Water games are involved and a towel is recommended.
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Treetop Treats
"Provides kid-approved snacks everyone will want to get their paws on." This is served up in the Fellowship Hall where everyone gathers together.
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Canopy Closing
We "wrap up the day with cool science experiments, drama, and music that all tie to the daily Bible point." This takes place in the Sanctuary where parents are welcome to come early before pick up and enjoy the fun! The last night we will have a slide show highlighting the adventures of the 4 days, where all families & friends are encouraged to join us to celebrate God's love!
Previous Camps for You To Check Out
"True North"
2025 Summer Program
[Click on the picture to the left]
to watch a slide show of last years FUN!
It was a 4 day 2.5 hour/day outdoor & indoor power packed program for ages Pre-k thru grade 8.
Miracle of Jesus
2025 Christmas Program
[View the pictures to the right]
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​This 2.5hr event coincided with our townwide
Christmas Fair Event and
followed our Community Breakfast. ​
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It too was made for Pre-K thru grade 8 and the kids (with parents too if they wanted to stay)
rotated to the different market stalls
to learn about the Miracles of Jesus​​
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The miracle stories took place in the marketplace of Bethlehem with interactive stalls; wool ornament maker, toy shop maker & games, fragrance & oil maker, fish market games and bakery snacks!