The Children’s Department of the United Methodist Church of Burundi with the support of Discipleship Ministries and the Burundi Annual Conference, from 18 to 24 August 2025, organized a week of Bible teachings for children, as part of the Vacation Bible School (VBS) program, under the theme: “I Am Walking with God.”
This activity took place in 9 districts to 11 that make up the Burundi Annual Conference. The attendance was about 19,000 children, although 23,000 were expected.
The closing ceremonies of this VBS edition included the awarding of certificates to children who had completed the second module of The Mailbox Club (TMC) program, which began in January, according to Mr. Désiré Nirera, national head of the Children’s Department of the United Methodist Church of Burundi.
In his remarks, Mr. Nirera emphasized: “These teachings are very beneficial for the children of the church. They offer a great opportunity to impart the Word of God and to prepare a future Church firmly rooted in Christ as quoted in book of Proverbs 22:6: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Beyond the Bible lessons, the children also enjoyed moments of play, brotherly love, and recreational activities. It was also an opportunity for education in citizenship, discipline, and staying away from the harmful influences they may be exposed to during the holidays, such as domestic exploitation, alcohol, drug or tobacco use.
VBS was first introduced in Burundi in 1964 by missionaries. After their departure, the program experienced a period of interruption, mainly due to lack of resources and coordination. The revival of the program took place during the 2021–2022 church year, and the 2025 edition thus marks the fourth consecutive year of its implementation.
The department’s wish is for this program to be extended to all parishes and districts of the United Methodist Church of Burundi. Mr. Nirera strongly encourages each community to mobilize the necessary resources for acquiring educational materials, which are often lacking yet essential for the proper running of the activities.