‘Light Your Fire’: Women’s VBS ignites faith and fellowship in Vicksburg

VICKSBURG, Miss. by Alyssa Lick (VDN) — It’s a Monday evening in mid-July, and the parking lot of Crossway Church is already packed by 5:15 p.m. Inside the building, women of all ages are filtering into the fellowship hall—some wearing matching T-shirts, others in sundresses, all with eager smiles. The aroma of grilled chicken kabobs and peach cobbler drifts from the kitchen, accompanied by voices rising in chatter, laughter, and joyful greetings. It feels like summer camp—but it’s not for kids.

This is Women’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) at Crossway Church, a whole week of food, fellowship, crafts, games, and worship, designed entirely for women. And not just a few. This year, over 100 women attended the event, which has evolved into a community tradition drawing participants from over 22 churches across Vicksburg and surrounding communities.

What started as a lighthearted suggestion between church friends has evolved into a multi-night ministry that many now consider the highlight of their summer.

“It all began as a joke,” said Kristy Wilson, Women’s Ministry Leader at Crossway. “We were talking about how much the kids love VBS—how they get to eat, do crafts, play games, and learn about Jesus. Someone said, ‘Why don’t we get to do that?’ We laughed about it, but the idea stuck. That summer, we launched Women’s VBS—and it’s only grown from there.”

Now in its second year, the event has evolved into something much more than an extension of a children’s program. It’s a space for women to unplug from daily stressors, reconnect with their faith, and build cross-denominational community in a way that’s joyful, energizing, and spiritually deep.

Evelyn Johnson and Kim Coomes help spearhead women’s ministry events with Kristy Wilson.

A Shared Table and Open Arms

Each evening of Women’s VBS begins with a shared meal, no small feat for 145 guests. Volunteers work for hours before doors open to prepare and serve campfire-inspired dishes, such as sloppy joes, grilled chicken kabobs, breakfast-for-dinner plates, and ice cream sandwiches. And of course, there’s the s’mores station, which draws a steady line of women eager to toast marshmallows and reminisce about childhood summer nights.

“The food is amazing,” said Aleah Lick, a member of Crossway Church who has attended both years. “But it’s more than just the meal. It’s the chance to sit down at a table with women you may or may not know, share your day, and laugh together.”

That sense of camaraderie is central to the event’s mission. While Crossway Church serves as host, the VBS is intentionally interdenominational and welcoming to all.

“Seeing women from 22 different churches come together—that’s the real miracle,” Wilson said. “It shows that when we put aside our labels and focus on Christ, beautiful things happen. There’s no competition here. It’s pure unity.”

Craft Time, Games, and a Message of Purpose

After dinner, the women transition into a rotation of activities. On one night, they gather around tables to create custom candles, each representing the personal flame they carry as part of this year’s theme: “Light Your Fire.” On another night, they craft suncatchers as a reminder of the light of Christ that shines through us, lighting our fire.

Then comes the lesson—a time of worship and Scripture designed to speak directly to the hearts of women navigating careers, motherhood, loss, aging, and everything in between. Each night features a different woman of the Bible who ties the message into the week’s central theme.

“‘Light Your Fire’ is more than a slogan,” said Kim Coomes, the speaker for the event. “It’s a challenge. A reminder that God has placed a spark in each of us—and it’s our responsibility to fan that into a flame. Whether you’re 25 or 75, God still has a purpose for your life.”

Attendee Tammy Crawford, who lost her husband last year, said the message hit home.

“I wasn’t sure if I wanted to come,” Crawford admitted. “I’ve been in a season of grief and honestly didn’t feel very ‘on fire.’ But being here reminded me that even the smallest ember still has heat. God’s not done with me. And I’m not done either.”

The lesson is followed by energetic games and crafts that evoke laughter and childlike delight. There’s a Bible trivia relay one night, a what’s in the room challenge where you have to bring a certain number of items to the front, and the first lady there wins for their group. While the games are simple, the joy they bring is anything but.

“I can’t remember the last time I laughed this hard,” said Jessica Brewer, a mother who came with a few of her friends. “It’s not just about having fun—it’s about letting go of the weight we carry and remembering it’s okay just to be present, to be lighthearted.”

Worship That Moves the Soul

As the night draws to a close, the lights dim, and the final portion begins: worship. A worship video leads the room in familiar modern praise songs. Some women close their eyes; some raise their hands. Others hold hands with the women beside them.

“To hear 145 women singing together—it’s powerful,” Wilson said. “You can feel the Holy Spirit in the room. It’s not manufactured. It’s real.”

The final night of Women’s VBS is always bittersweet. Women linger after worship, hugging new friends, trading phone numbers, and taking selfies under the “Light Your Fire” photo backdrop. Much leave with tears in their eyes—not of sadness, but of gratitude.

“This is what the church is supposed to be,” said Baylee Newell, “Not just Sunday services, but community. Laughter. Purpose. Joy. “

More Than a Moment

While Women’s VBS lasts just four nights, its impact stretches well beyond the church walls.
For some women, it’s a spiritual reset button. For others, it’s a safe space to ask questions, form friendships, or take the first steps back to faith after a period of disconnection.

Crossway’s women’s ministry team hopes that the relationships formed during the event will blossom into long-term connections through Bible studies, outreach projects, and continued collaboration between churches.

Plans are already underway for next year’s event. Wilson said the team is considering new themes, exploring larger venues, and finding new ways to keep the experience fresh while holding to its mission.

“This isn’t about putting on a show,” she said. “It’s about creating space—space for God to move, for women to connect, and for faith to be rekindled.”

For those who attended this year, the message is clear: you don’t have to go to it alone. Whether you’re weary or hopeful, overwhelmed or on fire, there’s a seat at the table—and a sisterhood ready to welcome you in.