Our Journey
St. John’s Lutheran Church was organized in 1870 by a group of German Lutherans living in Elma who first held services in a local schoolhouse at the corner of Rice and Bowen Roads. A few years later, the congregation met in its own small chapel on Woodard Road—now home to St. John’s Preschool—until the present sanctuary was built in 1887.
Over the years, more than 15 pastors have served this congregation as it has grown in faith and ministry.
St. John’s Lutheran Church stands in the long tradition of the Lutheran church. Over 500 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther, called the church to reform, teaching that we are “justified by grace through faith.” In other words, salvation is God’s gift to us in Jesus Christ—given through his death and resurrection—not something we can earn by our own good works. Lutherans continue to hold fast to Scripture as the guide for faith and life. We celebrate the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion as signs of our Lord’s living presence among us through the power of the Holy Spirit. St. John’s Lutheran Church of Elma is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
St. John’s Preschool of Elma
St. John’s Preschool of Elma is a non-profit, play-based preschool for three- and four-year-old children, located next to St. John’s Lutheran Church in a quiet country setting on Woodard Road.
Play-Based, Faith-Inspired Learning
Our Approach
Our semi-structured, play-based program focuses on socialization and kindergarten readiness. Children learn to work with others, share, listen, follow directions, and build confidence as they complete class activities. Weekly themes—from Nursery Rhymes and Good Foods to Farm Animals and the Four Seasons—introduce numbers, letters, colors, shapes, music, art, and more.
Preschool Schedule
Morning Session
We currently offer one Morning Session from 9:00 am to Noon, providing a traditional setting with teacher-led instruction. Throughout the year, children also enjoy several field trips that enrich our classroom themes and experiences.
Learn More & Enroll
Preschool Website
For more information about St. John’s Preschool of Elma, including enrollment details, tuition, and calendar, please visit our website at www.StJohnsPKElma.org.