​​All Children are welcome. We want children to come, feel welcomed, valued and be at home in our Children’s Ministry on Sundays, holidays and throughout the week.

Our Mission is to partner with families in building relationships and reaching children the best way possible so that they know, grow and go in God’s love.

In addition to weekly faith formation (our Sunday School), we also have fun seasonal activities and events. As always, friends and family are welcome to join the fun!

Fun & Faith Activities

  • Vacation Bible School
  • Trunk or Treat
  • Themed Lock-ins
  • Reading/Book Club
  • Easter Egg Hunt
  • Cooking Adventures
  • Sunday Special Activities and Missions

Nursery - Infants & Toddlers

It all begins when they are babies! Our nursery goal is for our little ones to be comforted and cared for in a safe, nurturing environment.

View Nursery Details

Children - Preschool - 5th Grade

In addition to Faith Formation (Sunday School) there are lots of activities and projects to help make the Bible story real and understandable for children.

View Children Details

Spiritual Celebrations in a Child's Life

There are many times in a child’s life that we at Laurel stop and celebrate their spiritual growth and journey, such as baptism, Bible presentation and confirmation.

View Spiritual Celebrations in a Child's Life Details

Library & Lessons

There are many exciting ways to learn! We have great books in our library for all ages, ranging from picture books to chapter books. We also have many prepared lesson plans.

View Library Details

Safe Sanctuaries

Our church has adopted policies and procedures intended to protect children and youth from any risk of child abuse. Our goal is always to maintain a safe place where children and youth may experience God’s love and engage in learning.

Laurel’s contact JoAnn Overholt, Director of Children, Youth and Family Ministries may be contacted at 217-525-1866 or joverholt@laurelumchurch.org with questions, ideas and/or suggestions.

Yes, friends are always welcome!!!


2026 VBS at Laurel 

June 16, 17, 18
9:00–11:45am
FREE!!! 
All children Pre School through 5th grade welcome! 

Registration Required

Each day children will participate in a variety of different activity centers: Science Station, Craft Station, Recreation Station, Bible Story Station, a Snack Station plus a Mission and Music Station. 


“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”  Philippians 4:13

Registration deadline is June 7, 2026
Register online, in person, or by calling Laurel UMC at 217 525-1866

Jesus said: “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them. For the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

— Matthew 19:14
(NIV – New International Version)

We are called together to serve God!!
“So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.”  

— Romans 14:19
(NIV – New International Version)