Chokoloskee
They came in boats, navigating the wild, untamed waters of the Ten Thousand Islands. Sometimes alone, sometimes with their families, they arrived carrying something more valuable than any treasure—hope. They were evangelists, bringing the good news of God’s love and grace to the small but thriving island of Chokoloskee. Back then, the only way in or out was by boat, and sometimes, the mail boat wouldn’t arrive for months. But that didn’t stop them. They stayed, they preached, and they built something lasting—a church that still stands today as a beacon of faith and community.
Photos Courtesy of Chokoloskee Church
The story of Chokoloskee Family Church goes back to the early 1900s when the McKinney family generously donated land for a place of worship. In 1913, the Chokoloskee Church of God officially opened its doors, making it the third-oldest Church of God in Florida. That same year, 40 people were baptized in Chokoloskee Bay at a place called McKinney’s Landing. While today it’s home to Martha and Craig Daniels, the church still holds baptisms there, continuing a tradition more than a century old.
Like any great story, there were challenges. The original wooden church was lost to a hurricane just a few years after it was built. But faith doesn’t waver in the face of storms—it rebuilds. A new church was constructed on the same site, and in the 1950s, Pastor Thomas Wells had a vision for something stronger. By the late ‘50s, a concrete sanctuary was completed, and it has withstood the test of time (and more than a few hurricanes) ever since. Now, the church is embracing its next chapter, constructing a brand-new sanctuary on the same historic site. This new church will serve as a renewed space for worship, fellowship, and community outreach, ensuring that Chokoloskee Family Church continues to be a place of faith and hope for generations to come.
Since its founding, the church has been led by 21 pastors, each leaving their mark on the congregation. For years, pastors were only allowed to stay for two years before the Church of God changed that rule. That change paved the way for the arrival of Jesse and Charity Wilson in 2019. The church had been without a pastor for a few months, and on the Sunday they came to preach, there were about 30 people in attendance. With no live music, worship was played through YouTube videos—a unique experience, as Pastor Jesse put it. But despite the unconventional setting, that morning was powerful. Nearly everyone in attendance came forward for prayer, and the Wilsons felt an undeniable call to serve.
Of course, things weren’t that simple. Church of God bylaws required that other candidates also have the chance to preach before the congregation voted on a new pastor. So, after a lunch meeting with board members at HavAnnA Café, the Wilsons left, hopeful but uncertain. A month later, the church held a vote, choosing between two remaining candidates (a third had withdrawn). To their amazement, Jesse and Charity were chosen with 100% of the vote.
Today, Chokoloskee Family Church continues to grow, not just in numbers but in impact. It’s more than a place of worship—it’s a family. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, you’re welcome here. Come experience the warmth, the history, and the faith that has sustained this community for over a century. The doors are open, and there’s always a seat for you!
Church Schedule
Sunday – 10 am
Sunday Renewal – 6 pm
Monday Youth Bible Study- 6 pm
Wednesdays Youth/Children – 7 pm
Thursday Adult Bible Study- 7 pm
