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Yoga ministry stretches beyond church walls

By Lilla Marigza
May 21, 2026 | FORT PIERCE, Fla. (UM News)

At First Church Fort Pierce, a United Methodist Congregation in Florida, a yoga class with mostly adults ages 60 and older is doing more than improving strength and balance. What began as a small gathering has grown into a compassionate community that gives back, turning movement and mindfulness into a powerful force for good. Video by Lilla Marigza UM News.

A simple yoga class at a Florida church is transforming lives in unexpected ways.

At First Church Fort Pierce, a United Methodist Congregation, participants — most over 60 — are finding strength, balance and renewed hope, even while facing health challenges like Parkinson’s disease.

Led by longtime instructor Mary Weden, First Church Yoga has become more than exercise, creating a welcoming community that gives back through donations and service projects.

What started as a search for studio space has grown into a powerful ministry of healing, connection and generosity. Lilla Marigza reports for UM News.

Watch video

Find out more about Mary’s yoga classes at First Church Fort Pierce.

You can fill out an online form to join First Church Yoga on Zoom.

Marigza is a multimedia producer for UM News. Contact her at (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umnews.org. To read more United Methodist news, subscribe to the free UM News Digest.

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