Every Sunday, barring some special occasions, we offer Spark Church during 9:30 AM worship.
What is Spark Church?
Spark Church is a part of worship where children learn about the bible. They explore the same Sunday readings as the adults, but at their own level. The name is derived from the concept of sparking an interest in bible exploration; also because we adapt from the "Spark" curriculum by Augsburg Fortress and use their "Spark" bibles.
Spark Church is a part of worship where children learn about the bible. They explore the same Sunday readings as the adults, but at their own level. The name is derived from the concept of sparking an interest in bible exploration; also because we adapt from the "Spark" curriculum by Augsburg Fortress and use their "Spark" bibles.
Why Spark Church instead of Sunday School?
Spark Church is not separate from worship, it is part of worship. Children are a vital part of the congregation and should not be made to feel separate from it. Spark Church allows children to worship with their families, explore the readings in an age-appropriate way, and then continue that learning at home.
Spark Church is not separate from worship, it is part of worship. Children are a vital part of the congregation and should not be made to feel separate from it. Spark Church allows children to worship with their families, explore the readings in an age-appropriate way, and then continue that learning at home.
Ok... so how does it work?
Families start in the sanctuary together with their big church family (aka, the whole congregation). Soon, Pastor will welcome the kids forward to share a message with them, then invite them to Spark Church. Kids will rejoin their families soon after the sermon concludes, meaning they are present for songs, prayers, and Holy Communion. Spark Church is offered during 9:30 AM (or 10:00 AM if there is just one) worship.
Families start in the sanctuary together with their big church family (aka, the whole congregation). Soon, Pastor will welcome the kids forward to share a message with them, then invite them to Spark Church. Kids will rejoin their families soon after the sermon concludes, meaning they are present for songs, prayers, and Holy Communion. Spark Church is offered during 9:30 AM (or 10:00 AM if there is just one) worship.
Who can attend?
Spark Church is designed for children in preschool through 4th or 5th grade. Younger children may also join us, but we ask that a parent/guardian comes with them. We also encourage a parent/guardian to attend with their special needs child, at least for the first few sessions. Parents are always welcome!
Spark Church is designed for children in preschool through 4th or 5th grade. Younger children may also join us, but we ask that a parent/guardian comes with them. We also encourage a parent/guardian to attend with their special needs child, at least for the first few sessions. Parents are always welcome!
How can families continue learning together at home?
Children's bulletins are available each week, with bible-based activities to do at home or at church. Children's bibles and other at-home resources are available as well.
Children's bulletins are available each week, with bible-based activities to do at home or at church. Children's bibles and other at-home resources are available as well.
Still have questions?
Please contact Renata Conger, who prayerfully runs all children & youth ministries at First English, if you want to know more.
Please contact Renata Conger, who prayerfully runs all children & youth ministries at First English, if you want to know more.
CHILDREN AT WORSHIP
First English Lutheran Church welcomes children of all ages to be part of our worshiping community! Their presence here reflects how Jesus welcomed the children in the midst of his disciples.
If you need to leave worship with your child, feel free to do so at any time, but please come back when you are ready!
Events for the Whole Family!
- Fall Fest: an all-ages event with food, carnival games, a costume show, candy, and prizes.
- Carol-A-Long: with crafts and carols for all, the children's pageant, and cookies with Santa.
- Egg Hunt: after children share the Holy Week story at worship, they find eggs filled with goodies.
- Vacation Bible School: a week-long day camp centered on learning about God and having tons of fun at the same time.
- Sunday Picnic: children lead the songs at worship, then head to the gym for a bounce house and lunch.
- ... and more!
Renata's Office Hours
Renata Conger, your friendly neighborhood Spider Man Parish Education and Youth Ministry Coordinator, organizes programming for just-born through just-barely-adult. She is in the office Sunday-Thursday each week. Her office is located right next to the sanctuary, and she would love to chat with you anytime! She is often in other parts of the building (or on trips with the youth) so it's best to contact her before you'd like to meet.
Call Renata at
313-884-5040, ext. 13
313-884-5040, ext. 13
“Look, up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No — it’s Jesus!”
Before the amazed disciples, Jesus ascended into heaven and disappeared into the clouds. Yet even as He rose to heaven, He promised to remain with us always. The wonder the disciples felt is the same wonder we share today through the amazing grace of God.
Easter Egg Hunt 2026
A Day with Spark Church
