Our Story — The History of VBS Ministries
VBS Ministries began as a small, faith‑rooted effort and has grown into a movement committed to introducing children to the life‑changing message of Jesus. What started in humble settings has become multi‑lingual, multi‑regional and community‑driven—rooted always in the simple conviction that every child deserves to hear God’s Word.
Our Story
From humble beginnings to a national movement — VBS Ministries has been reaching children since 1952.
VBS India began humbly in 1952 when Mrs. Mary E. Hamilton of the South India Bible Institute reached street children in Kovilpatti, Tamil Nadu, with Bible stories. The program quickly gained popularity, becoming a recognized part of the Institute’s activities, with Mrs. Hamilton developing the first syllabus, training students, and forming teams to take VBS across India. As more churches embraced VBS, Ms. Esther Faulkner (later Mrs. Esther Williams) and Rev. Dr. Theodore Williams created a three-year curriculum for all age groups, simplifying seminary-level Biblical content for children, rotating lessons to avoid repetition, and incorporating mission and evangelism—shaping leaders of integrity and inspiring the formation of several missionary movements.
Our Vision
“To help children to respond to God, to live as His disciples and to cooperate with God by participating in His action in the world.”
Our Mission
“Every year, VBS materials are produced in over 11 Indian languages, reaching nearly 2 million children across India, South East Asia, and the Middle East. Training programs in 175 towns equip hundreds of teachers and volunteers for effective child education.”
Our Reach
The first Indian Director, Mr. J. D. Arulmani, took charge in 1969, designing student workbooks and expanding VBS to Maharashtra, Orissa, West Bengal, Nagaland, and Nepal. Since then, a series of dedicated directors have guided the ministry, which continues as a department of South India Biblical Seminary, reaching millions of children across India, South Asia, and the Middle East. The curriculum, originally a 10-day module, is now being adapted to a 5-day format to meet urban needs.
Our Methodology
Provide systematic Bible study with fun-filled activities.
Help children aged 4–18 respond to God personally and meaningfully.
Serve as an outreach to children in need of God.
Offer a memorable summer program, providing a valuable alternative for parents.
Complement other Christian education programs, including Sunday School and Youth Fellowship.
Promote mental, emotional, and social growth through group dynamics.
Our Regions
Director’s Note
As we reflect on the journey of VBS Ministries, we are humbled by the vision and dedication that have carried this ministry from its humble beginnings to the vibrant, nationwide movement it is today. In 1952, Mrs. Mary E. Hamilton, with a heart for children and a passion for sharing the Gospel, began teaching Bible stories to a small group of 75 children in Kovilpatti.
Over the decades, VBS Ministries has grown to touch the lives of millions of children across India and beyond. Every year, curricula are produced in multiple languages, reaching urban and rural communities alike. Thousands of dedicated teachers and volunteers have been trained to effectively engage children, ensuring that every lesson is not only educational but transformative.
Our growth has always been guided by a commitment to excellence, faithfulness, and service. We have expanded our reach to hundreds of towns and cities, equipping churches and communities with the resources and training needed to make a lasting impact.
As we celebrate the lives touched and the communities strengthened, we remain committed to the vision that began more than seven decades ago: to equip children, empower teachers, and glorify God through the transformative work of Christian education. We look forward to continuing this journey with you, partnering together to inspire, nurture, and guide the next generation in faith, hope, and love.
