What do goats have to do with Jesus?
Well this project isn’t really just about goats. This project is all about love
This year we’re focusing on the Way of Love, which teaches us how to live like Jesus by caring for others, being generous, and sharing God’s love in new ways. In 1 John 4:19 we are reminded that
“We love because He first loved us.”
Jesus loves us, cares for us, and walks with us every day. And because we are loved so deeply, we can share that love with everyone, including our friends all the way over in Tanzania. Our friends in Kashasha are working hard to care for their families and strengthen their community. One female goat costs about $250, and the gift of just 1 goat can bless an entire village for years to come.
Whether you are hosting VBS, or looking for a fun family or parish project, this opportunity to learn more about our Tanzanian companions and share the love of Jesus is for you—-no kid-ing!
Resources for VBS Programs
This year, we invite your congregation to join something fun, meaningful, and a little bit… goat-tastic 🐐:
👉 The Northwestern Ohio Synod’s Great Goat Project
🐐 What’s it all about?
The Great Goat Project isn’t just about goats—it’s about sharing God’s love in real, life-changing ways.
Through this project, your VBS can help provide goats to families in Kashasha, Tanzania, in partnership with our Companions in the ELCT Dodoma Diocese in Tanzania. A single goat can:
- Provide nutritious milk for children
- Help families grow food through fertilizer
- Create income and long-term sustainability
- Bless not just one family—but an entire community
All of this grows out of our shared theme:
💛 “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
🎉 Why this is PERFECT for VBS
Kids love it because:
- 🐐 It’s fun and memorable (GOATS!)
- ❤️ It connects faith to real-world impact
- 🌍 It helps them learn about global neighbors
- 🙌 They can SEE how their generosity makes a difference
And let’s be honest…
Who doesn’t want to say they saved the world… one goat at a time? 😉
💡 Easy Ways to Participate
Your VBS can:
- Set a goal (Can we raise $250 for ONE goat?)
- Create a mission moment or daily story
- Use a goat jar or barn display to track progress
- Celebrate when you reach your goal (GOAT party, anyone? 🎉)
Whether your group raises funds for one goat or many, you are helping share the love of Jesus across the world.
Thank you for the incredible ways you nurture faith, joy, and generosity in your communities. We can’t wait to see how your VBS brings this project to life this summer!