Wesley UMC Revives Focus on Family Ministry 

At Wesley United Methodist Church on Marco Island, there’s an exciting, renewed focus on family ministry, with new programs designed to bring families closer together in faith. Under the leadership of Tim Gardiner, the church is offering a variety of engaging activities and initiatives that cater to children, youth, and parents alike. 

Tim, a seasoned family ministry leader, brings years of experience working with families in church settings and is also an elementary school teacher in Collier County. His deep commitment to helping families thrive makes him the perfect fit for this role. Together with a dedicated team of volunteers, Tim is leading the charge to provide a welcoming environment where children and families can connect, grow, and share in their faith journey. 

Every Sunday at 10 a.m., Kids Church welcomes children from Pre-K through 12th grade. The church offers creative, engaging, and age-appropriate lessons that help kids dive into Bible teachings in a fun, interactive way. Whether it's through stories, crafts, or group activities, each child is encouraged to grow in their understanding of God’s word. 

For younger children, Wesley also offers GoKids at Wesley on Tuesdays for kids in Pre-K through 5th grade. This fun, interactive program focuses on kindness, respect, and citizenship, teaching children valuable life skills while fostering a strong sense of community and compassion. It’s an excellent opportunity for kids to grow in character while having fun with friends. 

In addition to these regular programs, Wesley offers Parents Night Out on the last Saturday of every month, giving parents a much-needed break while their children enjoy a safe and fun environment at the church. 

Wesley also hosts Family Services on the First Sunday of each month, where families can worship together in the sanctuary. After the service, families are invited to a potluck meal, fostering a sense of community and encouraging fellowship among church members. 

The church’s commitment to supporting young families is also reflected in My Marco Academy, Wesley’s learning center for children ages 1-4. This early education program provides a nurturing environment where little ones can begin their educational journey in a safe, supportive, and faith-filled setting.