'K-Faith': A VBS to Highlight 'Korean Style' of Worship

Hana Christian Center
Pastor Jonathan Lee teaching children around a campfire during a previous VBS. |

While most churches "” including Korean ones "” tend to feature Vacation Bible Schools (VBS) that follow curricula developed by American churches and organizations, one church in Los Angeles is setting itself apart and hoping to instead focus on "Korean-style' aspects of worship, including early dawn prayers, late-night worship, and Bible memorization.

Calling it "K-Faith' (like "K-Pop'), Pastor Jonathan Lee of Hana Christian Center says he aims to introduce these elements of the Korean church culture through the church's VBS.

K-Faith will be taking place from 3 PM on July 22 to 5 PM on July 23, under the theme, "Comrades of Faith.'

For the past 18 years, Hana Christian Center has developed its own programs and curriculum hoping to meet the specific needs of Korean Americans.

The church's VBS this year takes inspiration from two things: the Bible story of Daniel and his three friends, and a Korean game show called "1 Night, 2 Days.' K-Faith will focus on giving children an experience of living in community and building camaraderie with brothers and sisters in the body of Christ.

K-Faith will also feature student leadership, as students who have attended previous VBS programs with Hana Christian Center will serve as small group leaders and mentor younger students.

Friday nights will feature late-night worship sessions, and on Saturday morning, children will wake up early for dawn prayer. To eat, children will have to memorize Bible verses and receive meal tickets. Attendees can also expect other fun aspects such as games, campfires, and late-night snacks.

To note, most of the programs will be in both Korean and English, but worship and sermons will only be in Korean.

This year, Hana Christian Center will also be partnering with LA Vision Church to host the VBS as a joint effort. Registration is free. For more information, contact: 213-399-7162.