Youth Programs
Ministries for Children
Sunday Morning Programs
Every Sunday, during the 9:45 service, nursery is provided for infants through preschoolers. All children in kindergarten through seventh grade are welcome to join us for Sunday School. Lessons for Sunday School will coincide with the theme for service and provide a fun way for children to learn about God. All children start out in the worship service and then, after children’s time, go down to the nursery and Sunday School for the rest of service. Children are always welcome to stay in service if they or their families prefer. We have a “Prayground” in the front of the sanctuary with activities for children to do during the service and also a Family Resource Room in the back of the sanctuary.
Kid’s Faith Fellowship
Join us for our free children’s program on some Sunday evenings throughout the school year from 6:30-7:30pm. All dates and activities will be announced in advance in the church newsletter and bulletin. Children preschool through fifth grade will learn Bible stories through many different activities including crafts and games. Please drop off your children in the Christian Community Center.
VOLUNTEERS are always welcome to help with this church ministry. Without you there isn’t an opportunity for young children to learn the word of God. Please contact Amanda Herman, Director of Children’s Ministries, at children@stjohnsmokena.org.
Vacation Bible School
Every summer St. John’s hosts an evening Vacation Bible School (VBS). Children will learn Bible truths, play games, have snacks, sing songs, and participate in other fun activities while learning about God. Children of St. John’s families and children from the community are welcome to attend.
Older Youth
Calling all youth in grades 6-12 who want to explore and strengthen their spirituality, connect with peers, and build meaningful relationships. We are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive community that celebrates the inner light each and every one of us brings to our community.
Our students participate in monthly meetings at the church, special outings, and service projects to encourage both personal and spiritual growth. Join us every other Sunday from 6:30-7:30pm in the Youth Lounge or Fellowship Hall. If you would like to sign up for our monthly calendar of youth events, please email the Youth Director, Jaci Freitag, at youth@stjohnsmokena.org.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like more information
Our Director of Children’s Ministries – Amanda Knittel Herman
Amanda lives in Mokena with her husband Mark and three kids – Sam, Alex, and Mary. Amanda has a BA of Sociology from Northern Illinois University and has worked in early childhood education for many years. Amanda believes children should be seen, heard, and cherished and should be at the center of everything we do at St. John’s. When she is not working at St. John’s she can be found volunteering with BSA Troop 40, Mokena Girl Scouts, driving her kids around, or making music in choir or playing clarinet.
Jaci and others from St John’s at 2025 Joliet Pride
Our Director of Youth Ministries – Jaci Freitag
In 2020, Jaci and her family relocated to neighboring Frankfort after living in Chicago for quite some time. Finding the wonderful community at St John’s has been such a blessing. Jaci has a BA in Elementary Education from Northeastern Illinois University and has been an early childhood educator for the last 12 years. She believes that each and every student should feel welcomed, celebrated, and empowered in our community. Our goals for our youth ministry include supporting our youth through their spiritual journey and encouraging them to live out their faith in their everyday lives