Group Publishing – Weekend Series: Anchored: Deepening Faith in God

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” (1 Chronicles 16:34)

Note: Group Publishing did not provide our reviewers with access to the full curriculum, therefore, we were unable to fully review this product. The information below has been compiled from the Group Publishing website, our knowledge of the publisher, and experience with previous Group VBS curriculum.

Anchored: Deepening Faith in God is designed for user efficiency and convenience, requiring just two 2.5-hour blocks of program time with the children and recommending an optional 20-minute celebration during Sunday worship.

Cost

$87.99 (Basic Kit) at time of posting.
Check website for current pricing.

Age Levels

Pre K – Grade 5

Number of Sessions/Scheduling

Two sessions available

Session 1: Paul encourages others in a storm and shipwreck; Acts 27
Session 2: Jesus dies and comes back to life; Matthew 26:17 – 28:10

What is included in the basic package?

Basic Kit
The Anchored Director Manual
Station Leader Manuals
Music Leader Version CD
Program Resources DVD
Clip Art & Resources CD
Student resource samples

Strengths

• Thorough integration of program logistics and developmental goals.
• Clear program structure: Opening, small group rotations, closing.
• Format well-suited to small congregations and first-time VBS efforts.
• Realistic expectations of volunteers.
• Quality sidebar advice in the Director’s Manual.

Weaknesses

• Theology and pedagogy inappropriate for most mainline Protestant congregations.
• Expense of supplemental materials.
• Mission projects are often unrelated to the theme with no direct connection to activities.

About the Publisher

Group’s Weekend VBS series demonstrates their signature attention to logistical detail, as well as its heavy focus on atonement theology. While the programs often focus on one positive Bible Point, the sessions dive quickly into graphic explorations of darkness and sin. The emphasis on atonement theology prioritizes the death of Jesus over his life and teachings. The effect of such fear-based experiences on young children will likely be guilt and not wonder – quite the opposite of the positive emphasis of most VBS programming.