The Florida Conference is dedicated to bringing you news stories about United Methodists here and beyond. Whether the news is about the global church or the church on the corner, look for it here. You’ll also find thought-provoking commentaries and opportunities for education and fellowship. Have a story to share? Email webadmin@flumc.org or click here to use our convenient “Submit a story” form.
Take a Good Vacation
When I was a pastor I tried to work hard. When I was ordained, I promised that I would devote myself fully to God and God’s work. I learned that the only way to accomplish that vow over time was to...
Awareness is the first step in making the church fully inclusive
“The most important thing is understanding that disabled doesn’t mean less-than,” says Rev. Melissa Pisco.
News, Notes, and Announcements from The Florida Conference
United Methodist Association of Preschools extends outreach all faith-based denominations
Despite major hailstorm damage, Anthony UMC's message: "We are still here"
The 162-year-old building took a pounding during the April 26 hailstorm.
Bishops call for General Conference in 2026
This would be in addition to the regular General Conference sessions planned for 2024 and 2028.
John Wesley's reluctance turned into a mission after encounter at Aldersgate
Aldersgate reminds United Methodists how God can turn seemingly insignificant moments into extraordinary ones.
Pastors can find support at the Institute For Modern Worship
In partnership with The Florida Conference, the IMW helps worship leaders through connection and development.
Bishop Berlin announces full time appointment changes
Bishop Berlin announces full time appointment changes to take effect July 1, 2023.
Florida Conference approves disaffiliation for 55 churches
The exits become effective on June 1, pending the completion of all exit obligations.
Courts siding with United Methodist Church in disaffiliation process
As the Florida Conference prepares to vote Saturday on disaffiliation for 55 churches, the latest court ruling said all churches have to follow the agreed-upon process.
Court Dismisses Disaffiliation Lawsuit Against the Florida Conference
The Court today issued an important ruling that supports The Florida Conference of The United Methodist Church and that reaffirms the Constitutional principle that secular courts do not have a role in...
Commentary: Is Creation Care right for your church?
Take this quiz to find out!
For the Warren Willis Camp, Corey Jones is "the right man at the right time"
Rev. Jones will assume leadership of the camp on July 1
Our Call as United Methodists to Eradicate Sexual Harassment
In the beginning, God created all of us in the image of God. It’s such a simple statement, right?
This holy season reminds us that God wants us all to work for goodness
Unity between Christians, Muslims, and Jews can bring light to a darkened world
Commentary: Looking at the totality of Jesus' sacrifice for each of us
Maybe we know the Easter story too well. Familiarity can cause even the most magnificent event to lose impact.
What Christians Need to Know About Policies that Exclude DEI and CRT
Our Florida State Legislature is in session making policy from March 7 to May 5, 2023. Once again, the members of the Florida Conference Public Policy and Witness Antiracism Team want to empower ...
Study shows strong support from Blacks to remain United Methodists
However, with racism, advancement opportunities, and pay inequity as obstacles, they also say the status quo is not acceptable.
Commentary: As Methodists grapple with disaffiliation, the world is watching
Do we continue to show the love of Christ even in our denominational disagreements? Or is it more about following rules?
Florida UMC missionaries help provide eye-opening care in Angola
While malaria and malnutrition remain major problems, cataracts are a significant, less-publicized issue.
As the Warren Willis Camp turns 75 this year, it's still "a sacred space"
The Warren Willis Camp United Methodist Camp plans a summer-long celebration of its past while looking to the future.
"A person will never be able to love their neighbor as themselves until they decide that they are against racism."
We are coming to the end of Black History Month as the days of February rapidly pass. I found it an opportune time to sign The Florida Conference Anti-Racist Pledge. I did this to join members of The ...
How to achieve peace when it seems impossible? Try rethinking conflict
The Marcy's Cohort from The Florida Conference hopes to use lessons from a trip to Israel to address issues here
A special message everyone needs to hear on Valentine's Day
No one should live on Loveless Lane.
Edgewater UMC praised God through the storm with its lips and actions
Hurricane Ian badly damaged Edgewater UMC, but that didn't stop the church from providing vital services to its community.
Bishop Berlin Announces Changes to Cabinet Leadership
Bishop Tom Berlin announced today the appointment of three district superintendents and the creation of a new position, Assistant to the Bishop for Congregational Mission, effective July 1, 2023. “...
Bishop Tom Berlin's message: Reach out to those who live on Loveless Lane
Bishop Berlin was installed Saturday as the leader of The Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church.
Haiti is the face of resilience despite incredible challenges
Disasters, hunger, and violence is routine in Haiti. But The United Methodist Church won't let the people be forgotten.
Celebrating fresh expressions of church with Bishop Berlin
Just one day after moving to Florida from his home state of Virginia where he ministered in various churches for over 30 years, Bishop Tom Berlin traveled to St. Mark’s UMC in Ocala to spend time with the Fresh Expressions team.
Florida Conference historical records now available from the comfort of your home
The Florida United Methodist Heritage Center has the immense privilege and careful task of ensuring the Florida United Methodist Archives are preserved and protected. From books to pictures, ...
Disaffiliating churches could face huge insurance costs
The Conference insurance program will no longer cover churches that choose to leave the Florida Conference.
North Georgia Conference hits pause on disaffiliations
Conference leaders said they arrived at the decision because so much misinformation was being spread that they couldn’t trust the validity of congregational votes.
Bishop Berlin Announces Virtual Special Sessions of the Annual Conference
Dear Lay and Clergy Members of the Florida Annual Conference: As the new resident bishop of The Florida Annual Conference, I think it is important to provide opportunities for the annual conference...
Fresh Expressions FL welcomes new team addition
Fresh Expressions Florida is excited to announce the newest addition to the Conference team: Jessica Taylor.
Many Florida churches still deciding about disaffiliation
Bishop Tom Berlin urges grace and peace as churches decide whether to remain with the United Methodist Church.
Peace, Patience and the Promise of God
In anticipation of his birth, there was a word from the prophet, Isaiah: He will be called wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, prince of peace. Isaiah 9 The father of John the ...
"We Are On The Way to a Better Church”
“We Are On The Way to a Better Church” Remarks shared with The Florida Conference Hyde Park UMC, Tampa December 11, 2022 Bishop Ken Carter I want to say that I am grateful to The Florida Conference ...
AC 2023 resolutions due Jan. 31
According to the Standing Rules of the Florida Conference, Par. 206 2(d), “All submitted resolutions must be received by the Conference Secretary by Jan. 31. . .
Church court: No new elections needed for 2024 General Conference
The Judicial Council, The United Methodist Church’s top court, faced questions about whether the coming legislative assembly should be regarded as the postponed 2020 session or the next regular session.
For some, Christmas brings painful memories instead of joy
The Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church will hold a virtual Blue Christmas service at 7 p.m. on December 15.
Bishop Ken Carter's era remembered for his compassion and vision
As Bishop Carter prepares to leave Florida for the Western Carolina Conference, he is recalled as a voice of calm leadership in times of trouble.
Update from Bishop Carter about churches withdrawing from lawsuit
We are committed to providing you regular communications on the life of our Conference as it relates to our ministries as well as the greater health and wholeness of the body of Christ called The Florida Conference. To this end, we would like to share an update on the lawsuit that has been brought against The Florida Conference, our conference treasurer, members of our Board of Trustees, the district superintendents, and me.
Apportionments and End of Year Payments
Apportionment payments for 2022 must be received in the lockbox at Regions Bank or paid online by Monday January 9, 2023. This is not a postmarked by date but is the last day by which monies must be ...
Bishop Tom Berlin: "I want to be in ministry with you"
Florida's new Bishop brings a servant's heart and said he will start by listening instead of talking.
From Great Obstacles, Come Great Opportunities
Before our nine-person team even left the United States, obstacles started stacking up against us. We were in our final stages of planning for a 16-day mission trip to Quessua, Angola when I heard ...
Two jurisdictions tackle racism in bishop elections
Rev. Dr. Sharon Austin of the Florida Conference challenged the Southeastern Jurisdiction to "be the church we say we want to be" when it comes to race.
Bishop Kenneth Carter moves from the Florida Conference
Newly confirmed Bishop Tom Berlin assumes the post of Resident Bishop of the Florida United Methodist Church.
New bishops consecrated on final day of SEJ
Hundreds from around the region gathered Friday, Nov. 4, for the final session of the 2022 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference of The United Methodist Church, which handled a few remaining items of...
SEJ passes three resolutions in evening session
A day filled with activity and some controversy ends with delegates passing three resolutions.
United Methodists to Meet in Charlotte for Worldwide Conference
The Commission on the General Conference announced that the 2024 United Methodist General Conference will be held April 23 – May 3, 2024, at Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.