Church Strengthening Ministry, Inc. (CSMI) recently capped the 2022 Vacation Bible School (VBS) training season with its own VBS program, through its employees and with the help of its seasoned volunteer trainers, while setting another milestone in its 33-year history.

Last July 25-29, 2022, CSM held VBS Crossover at the storied Joy Kiddie Center (JKC) in Intramuros, Manila. More than 200 kids joined the five-day event, learning what it means to be a champion from the Bible, along with sportsmanship and a handful of basic basketball skills.

"It was a refreshing experience," said Myra Cruz-Alibrando, CSM admin manager and teacher for the 4- to 6-year-old beginners, called Rookies. "The children were active and they sometimes misbehaved, but they were really lovable and so much willing to learn."

Other CSM staff and trainers who also served as teachers (referred to as coaches in VBS Crossover) include Training OIC Reuel Alfonso, who coached the 10- to 12-year-old Players; seasoned CSM trainers Hannah Quindoza and John Mark Galang as coaches of the 7- to 9-year-old Starters; and CSM Digital Marketing Specialist Mon Santos, coach of the Aces or youth students. Training Coordinator Cat Santos served as Commissioner or VBS overall director.

The CSM team was ably supported by volunteers from Church at Better Living, Joy Christian Fellowship, Joy in Christ Fellowship of Lancaster New City-Cavite, as well as the JKC Youth.

Trading day-to-day work at the office for actual VBS teaching was obviously a challenge, given the large number of students, the misbehaving kids, the humid climate, and at one point, the shock of the 7.1 magnitude Abra earthquake. But for the CSM coaches, it was a welcome and rewarding task.  "I last taught three years ago, and at first I asked myself if I was ready," Cruz-Alibrando said. "But after much prayer and preparation, and going through (the one-week VBS), I can say that the Lord has made me ready!"

She added, "If we do this again next year, I look forward to join the team. Count me in!"

The daily VBS program starts with a show of respect to the Philippine and Christian flags, and the Bible.

CSM Admin Manager and Rookies Coach Myra Cruz-Alibrando gets her class of lovable toddlers in line for an outdoor activity.

CSM Training OIC and Players Coach Reuel Alfonso guides student-Champions making their first free throw.

CSM Trainer and Starters Coach JM Galang directs a presentation of David and Goliath in the morning class.

A lively student earns a thumbs-up from CSM Trainer and Starters Coach Hannah Quindoza during the afternoon session.

Volunteer Coach Tess Nebres of Joy in Christ Fellowship of Lancaster New City keeps the Rookies interested in the story of Naaman and the Israelite servant girl.

The recent Abra earthquake temporarily disrupted the VBS sessions; here, CSM Digital Marketing Specialist and Aces Coach Mon Santos holds class outside until it was deemed safe to return indoors.

The JKC Youth volunteers lead the students in dancing to the VBS action songs with much energy and excitement.

CSM CEO Abner Lacson (in checkered polo) watches as the students for the afternoon session gather for the daily Worship Rally activity.

CSM Training Coordinator and VBS Commissioner Cat Santos shares a moment with one of the Rookies at the end of the graduation ceremony.

Joy Kiddie Center founder Mr. John Go Hoc (center, in red polo) with the JKC Youth volunteers and Training Coordinator Cat Santos (second from left).

The 2022 VBS Crossover at Joy Kiddie Center: Raising Champions for Jesus in the heart of Intramuros!