CHILDREN

Welcome to our Children’s Ministry page! At Wesley, we are committed to nurturing the faith of children and youth through engaging, age-appropriate programs that help them grow as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Sunday Nursery Care
We provide a warm and welcoming nursery for children ages 0-5 in Room U-21 every Sunday from 8:15am to 12:15pm. Our caring staff and volunteers ensure a safe and loving environment so parents can worship with peace of mind.

A Time With Young Disciples
During every Sunday worship service, children are invited to participate in A Time With Young Disciples, a special moment just for them. This brief, engaging message helps children connect with the day’s sermon in an age-appropriate way.
We are excited to share the love of Christ with your family and look forward to welcoming you on Sunday mornings!

Sunday School
Children and youth are invited to join us for Sunday School from 9:45am to 10:45am, where they’ll experience fun, interactive lessons tailored to their age group:

• Pre-K to 2nd Grade (Room U-19): This class explores Bible stories through science activities, arts, crafts, and music. Children learn what it means to follow Jesus through hands-on experiences that make the stories come to life.
• 3rd to 6th Grade (Room U-14): Students dive deeper into Bible stories with a focus on the Old Testament in the fall and the New Testament in the spring. Through videos, games, and crafts, they learn important biblical truths and are encouraged to “be a blessing” by practicing acts of kindness in their daily lives.
• Jr. & Sr. High (Room L-3): Our youth group meets together for an interactive Sunday School experience using a mix of curriculum, discussion-based lessons, videos, and games. This class emphasizes real-world application and faith-building conversations.

Sunday Night Youth Group
Join us for Sunday Night Youth Group! Open to all students in 6th-12th grade, we meet most Sunday evenings from 6:00-7:30 PM in the Jr. & Sr. High Room (L-3). Each gathering is a mix of fun, faith, and friendship—whether we’re diving into meaningful discussions, playing games, or just hanging out.
Beyond our regular meetings, we also have exciting outings throughout the year, including trips to trampoline parks, bowling nights, and Super Bowl parties. It’s a great way to connect, grow in faith, and make lasting memories. Come as you are, bring a friend, and be part of something awesome!

Praise Kids
Children have the opportunity to lift their voices and hearts in praise through music and song. Praise Kids meet on Wednesdays from 5:00pm to 6:00pm in Room U-22. This program helps children connect with God through joyful worship and is open to all kids through sixth grade eager to sing, learn, and grow in faith. For the full schedule, please see our church calendar.

Sunday School
Pre-K - 2nd Grade: Room U-19
3rd Grade - 6th Grade: Room U-14
Jr. and Sr. High School: Room L-3

Nursery - Ages 0-5: Room U-21
A Time with Young Deciples (During Service): Sanctuary

Wesley United Methodist Church believes in the value of summer camp experiences for personal growth, learning, and community building. To support our youth, we offer camp scholarships to help cover the cost of attending both faith-based and non-faith-based camps, including Illinois Great Rivers Conference camps, Scout camps, and other summer programs.

• Wesley UMC youth who are active participants may receive up to $350 toward their camp fees.
• Friends of Wesley youth attending camp with them may receive up to $350 in scholarship assistance.

To apply, please complete the online application and provide details about the camp you plan to attend. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so early applications are encouraged!

We are excited to help make camp a reality for our youth and their friends!