In the heart of St. Louis at the St. Paul Early Childhood Center, there exists a beacon of light in the form of Melissa Pauling. With 17 years of dedicated service under her belt, Pauling’s passion for teaching and her unwavering faith in Lutheran education shines brightly, illuminating the minds and hearts of her young students.

When asked about her typical week, Pauling’s enthusiasm bubbles over. “It’s a whirlwind of excitement,” she shares. “From Jesus Time, where we delve into Bible stories and sing songs about our Savior, to snack breaks and nap times, and plenty of time for exploring and play, each day is filled with wonder and discovery.”

For Pauling, teaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing curiosity and fostering a love for learning. “I love how curious they are about everything,” she exclaims. “They’re like sponges, soaking up knowledge and making connections every day. And at four and five years old, their energy is boundless. They’re always on the move, eager to learn and love.”

Pauling’s journey to becoming a Lutheran teacher began in high school, where the encouragement of her teachers and pastors led her to Concordia University River Forest (now called Concordia University Chicago). “I grew up in a Lutheran grade school, surrounded by mentors who instilled in me a passion for education and faith,” she explains. “It felt like a natural calling to continue that legacy.”

According to Pauling, one of the unique opportunities afforded to Lutheran teachers is the close-knit community they build with students and families. “Lutheran schools feel like family,” she says with a smile. “We support each other through thick and thin, celebrating joys and offering comfort in times of need. It’s a bond that goes beyond the classroom.”

“My reward is not monetary but in knowing that I’m shaping young minds and hearts for eternity.“

-Melissa Pauling

Central to Lutheran education is integrating faith into every aspect of learning. “The love of Christ shines through everything we do,” Pauling affirms. “Sharing that love with my students and witnessing their spiritual growth is incredibly rewarding.”

Despite the challenges of navigating a busy world filled with distractions, Pauling remains steadfast in her mission. “Families are busier than ever, and there are countless pressures on our kids,” she acknowledges. “But in the midst of it all, we have the opportunity to be a guiding light, showing them the path of faith and love.”

When asked about her favorite part of teaching, Pauling’s eyes light up. “Seeing the growth of my students throughout the years is truly magical,” she says. “Whether it’s visiting former students who have excelled academically or witnessing the kindness and compassion they show to others, it fills my heart with joy.”

Despite the challenges and sacrifices, Pauling’s dedication to her calling is unwavering. “Some may see teaching as low-paying and exhausting, but for me, it’s a labor of love,” she shares. “My reward is not monetary but in knowing that I’m shaping young minds and hearts for eternity.”

Working for the church full-time has been a blessing for Pauling, allowing her to forge meaningful relationships and be a positive influence in the lives of others. “It’s about more than just a job; it’s about building community and sharing God’s love,” she reflects.

As for her best memory with her students so far, Pauling’s smile widens. “There are too many to count,” she says warmly. “But seeing their faces light up when they learn something new or witnessing their acts of kindness towards each other—that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”

In a world filled with darkness, Pauling is a beacon of hope, illuminating minds with faith and love. Through her dedication to Lutheran education and unwavering commitment to her students, she continues to inspire and uplift all who know her. 

Q&A with Melissa Pauling

What initially led you to invest with LCEF?
“Competitive rates were certainly a draw, but beyond that, it was a deep appreciation for what LCEF represents and the mission the organization serves.”

What LCEF products do you take advantage of?
“We invest in retirement funds and seek to increase savings with the StewardAccount^®. Additionally, we have a Home Equity Loan through LCEF.”

What features or aspects of investing with LCEF do you find most valuable?
“Knowing our savings are secure at a trustworthy organization like LCEF is paramount. Furthermore, the assurance that they’ll be there to assist when we are ready to invest more is invaluable.”

How would you compare investing with LCEF to similar options available to you?
“While numerous options are available, what sets LCEF apart for us is clarity of purpose. We understand precisely what LCEF stands for and have confidence in the leadership’s decisions, which benefit Lutheran churches and workers worldwide.”

Would you recommend others invest in LCEF?
“Absolutely. With so many uncertainties around investing, saving and planning for retirement, it’s comforting to know that an organization like LCEF is here to assist. Their dedication to their mission and their clients is commendable.”