Memphis Church Guide: Top 10 VBS & Mother's Day Out Programs for 2026

Hey Memphis parents! If you're looking for safe, Christ-centered summer programs or weekday childcare options for your little ones, you're in the right place. Vacation Bible School (VBS) and Mother's Day Out (MDO) programs are incredible resources that combine quality childcare with faith formation: and Memphis churches offer some fantastic options for 2026.

I've been researching what's available for you this year, and I want to be completely honest: while many churches are gearing up for amazing programs, not all of them have published their 2026 schedules yet. But don't worry: I'm going to share what I've confirmed, give you practical tools to find even more options, and help you know exactly what to look for in a great program.

What Makes VBS and MDO Programs So Valuable?

Before we dive into the list, let me explain why these programs matter so much. Vacation Bible School typically runs for a week during summer months, offering kids an action-packed experience filled with games, crafts, music, Bible stories, and friendship-building. It's not just childcare: it's an opportunity for your children to encounter God's love in creative, age-appropriate ways.

Mother's Day Out programs, on the other hand, provide consistent weekday care (usually one to three days per week) throughout the school year. These programs give parents much-needed time for work, errands, or self-care while children enjoy structured activities, socialization, and spiritual nurture in a safe church environment.

Both types of programs offer your family a chance to connect with a local church community, which can be life-changing.

Confirmed VBS Programs for Memphis 2026

Based on current information, here are the programs that have confirmed their 2026 schedules:

1. CROWNED: Winter Games VBS at ACTS Korean Church

When: February 14–16, 2026 Time: 1:30 PM–4:30 PM Theme: Perseverance and faith through winter-themed activities

This unique winter VBS focuses on building spiritual endurance with creative games, crafts, and Bible activities. If you're reading this early in the year, this might be perfect timing!

2. St. Louis Catholic Church VBS

When: June 1–5, 2026 Format: Traditional week-long summer VBS

3. Second Presbyterian Church VBS

When: June 1, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM–11:45 AM Format: Morning program

This is a great half-day option if you need morning childcare or want to combine VBS with other summer activities.

4. Brown Missionary Baptist VBS

When: Summer 2026 (specific dates TBD) Format: Both daytime and evening sessions available

The flexibility of daytime and evening options makes this program accessible for families with different schedules.

5. Ana-Genesis Sustain Memphis: Soaring Peaks VBS

When: Fall 2026 Theme: Creation care and Christian stewardship

This program takes a unique approach by incorporating environmental stewardship into biblical teaching: perfect for kids who love nature and want to learn how to care for God's creation.

How to Find More Programs in Your Neighborhood

Here's where I want to empower you: Memphis has dozens of wonderful churches offering VBS and MDO programs that simply haven't published their 2026 details yet. Many churches finalize their summer schedules between February and April, so now is the perfect time to start exploring.

Step 1: Use Boundless Church Search

Visit www.boundlessonlinechurch.org and use our ZIP code search tool to find physical churches in your area. We've built this resource specifically to help you connect with local congregations that can serve your family's needs. When you find churches near you, we'll provide a VIP handoff to help you connect personally.

Step 2: Contact Churches Directly

Create a simple email template or make quick phone calls to churches in your area. Ask about:

• VBS dates and themes for 2026

• Age ranges served

• Registration deadlines and costs

• MDO program availability and weekly schedules

• Any scholarship or assistance programs

Step 3: Check Community Bulletin Boards

Many Memphis community centers, libraries, and pediatrician offices post information about local church programs. Don't overlook these old-school resources!

Step 4: Connect with Other Parents

Parent networks: whether through school, neighborhood groups, or social media: are goldmines for finding trusted programs. Ask other Memphis parents what churches they recommend.

What to Look for in a Quality VBS or MDO Program

Not all programs are created equal, and you want to make sure your child is in good hands. Here's what I recommend looking for:

Safety First

• Background checks for all staff and volunteers

• Clear check-in/check-out procedures

• Appropriate child-to-staff ratios

• Allergy and medical emergency protocols

Age-Appropriate Teaching

The best programs tailor activities and biblical teaching to children's developmental stages. Preschoolers need hands-on sensory experiences, while elementary kids thrive with games, drama, and more complex storytelling.

Loving, Trained Staff

You want teachers and volunteers who genuinely love kids and have been equipped to handle various situations with grace and wisdom.

Engaging Curriculum

Look for programs that use multi-sensory learning: music, movement, crafts, games, and storytelling: to help biblical truths stick.

Welcoming Community

The church's overall atmosphere matters. You want your child to experience the love of Christ through warm, inclusive interactions with both leaders and other families.

Supporting Your Child's Faith Journey Year-Round

VBS and MDO programs are fantastic, but they're just one piece of your child's spiritual development. Here's how you can build on what they're learning:

Create faith rhythms at home: Simple bedtime prayers, Bible stories before naps, or worship music in the car reinforce what your kids experience at church programs.

Stay connected: Many churches offer family events, kids' ministries on Sundays, and parent resources throughout the year. These connections help your child's faith grow beyond just a summer week.

Ask questions: When your child comes home from VBS or MDO, ask what they learned, what they liked, and if they have any questions. These conversations are discipleship moments.

When You Can't Find a Local Option

I know some of you might be in situations where local church programs aren't accessible: maybe you're dealing with scheduling conflicts, transportation challenges, health concerns, or you're just not sure which church to try. That's exactly why Boundless exists.

We're here for the unchurched, the homebound, the geographically isolated, and anyone seeking spiritual community. While we can't replace the hands-on childcare that MDO programs provide, we can absolutely support your family's faith journey with:

• Bible studies and faith formation resources you can use at home with your kids

• 24/7 pastoral support via live chat and video when you need prayer or guidance

• Parent groups and training to help you disciple your children

• Connection to local churches through our ZIP/country search with personal handoff

You're never alone in this parenting journey. We're here to walk alongside you, connect you with resources, and remind you that you are deeply loved by God: and so are your children.

Take the Next Step

Here's what I encourage you to do today:

1. Make a list of 3-5 churches in your Memphis neighborhood

2. Visitwww.boundlessonlinechurch.org to use our church search tool

3. Reach out to those churches this week to ask about VBS and MDO programs

4. Register early once you find the right fit: popular programs fill up fast!

5. Connect with us if you need prayer, guidance, or help finding the right church home for your family

Memphis has an incredible community of churches that want to serve your family. Whether you're looking for summer VBS, year-round MDO care, or simply a church home where your children can grow in faith, there are options waiting for you.

And remember: at Boundless, you're never forgotten, never alone, and deeply loved by God. We're here to support you every step of the way as you invest in your children's spiritual foundation.

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Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. Boundless Phone: 1-901-213-7341 FA Memphis: 1-901-843-8600 lmcdonald@famemphis.net - www.boundlessonlinechurch.org

Dr. Layne McDonald