SPL KIDS – Children’s Ministry
At SPL Kids, our mission is to help children grow in their faith and follow Jesus every day of their lives. Led by Erica Davies, Director of Children’s Ministry, and supported by Assistant Director Jennifer Suckow, our team is passionate about walking alongside families to raise up young disciples of Christ.
We believe that children are one of God’s greatest gifts. Their love, curiosity, and trust reflect the very heart of the Kingdom of Heaven—just as Jesus said, “the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” That’s why we’re dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for kids to learn, worship, serve, and build friendships rooted in faith.
Explore the programs, classes, and events we’ve designed to nurture the faith of the next generation—we’re excited to grow with you!
SPL Kids Time (Sunday Education Hour)
Join us on Sundays at 9:15 am for a mini-VBS experience upstairs that includes small group time to build relationships and pray, plus large group story, games, and music. We hope your kids can join us for the best hour of the week!
SPL KIDS: Web Resources
Join our SPL Kids Facebook Group to stay up-to-date with what’s happening with SPL Kids!
Visit and subscribe to our SPL Kids YouTube Channel to view our latest video content.
SPL Parents
Also at 9:15 am on Sundays is a time for parents/guardians to gather in the family room for connection, guest speakers, and more. Join the SPL Parents Facebook group to learn more.
SPL Littles
In order to offer support to parents through the transition from full-time Nursery to full-time worship, we offer a story, prayer, and activity time during the sermon at 10:30 am worship for 4-6 year old children. These activities will be different than what’s happening upstairs during Sunday Education Hour, so 4-6 year olds are able to participate in both. Before worship (10:15-10:30), participating families will check in near the Dining Room and grab a name tag.
Play Dates at the SPL Field House
On the last Monday of the month at 9:00 am (prayer and story and snacks at 10:00am), parents/guardians and their young children are invited to our safe, free, grace-filled indoor space for a toddler bounce house, balls, tunnels, and more. Invite your friends, because we want our building to be a blessing to Decatur!
ST. PAUL’S EARLY LEARNING CENTER
The purpose of St. Paul’s Early Learning Center is to serve families of the church and community who desire a Christ-centered care and learning experience for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years. The Early Learning Center features daily care options for ages 6 weeks – 5 years (Monday-Friday, 6:30am-5:30pm), preschool classes (ages 3 and 4), and a before/after school and days out program for school-aged youth.
We are blessed to note that among our qualified and caring teaching staff, there is a total of 88 years of teaching experience among them at our Early Learning Center alone (not counting the other years of experience they had prior to coming to the ELC). Five of our teachers have been with the ELC for five years each and three of our teachers have been with the ELC for over ten years each. We value our teaching staff and their dedication, and they are passionate about providing this Christ-centered care day after day for your child.
St. Paul’s Early Learning Center is located at 1 Bachrach Court (corner of West Mound Road and Taylor Avenue), within St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
Contact the Early Learning Center for more information about classroom availability, preschool or school-aged programs, or schedule a tour today at 217-424-9183.
LUTHERAN SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is one of five member churches forming the Lutheran School Association (St. Paul’s, St. John’s, Trinity, Concordia, and Mt. Calvary) and a proud supporter of the school as an extension of our ministry. The school was organized in 1959. In addition to Kindergarten – 8th grade, the LSA established a High School in the fall of 2000. Families have access to a Christian-centered education for their students in Kindergarten through 12th grade right here in Decatur.
