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.
A special message everyone needs to hear on Valentine's Day
No one should live on Loveless Lane.
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.
"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 ...
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.
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.
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.
SEJ delegates select Dr. Connie Shelton as a bishop
SEJ convention delegates have chosen two bishops, with one more to be named before the gathering concludes.
SEJ Thursday morning brings strong message but no election
The morning session of Day 2 at SEJ also included a service of remembrance
Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference starts Nov. 2
Conference delegates at Lake Junaluska, N.C. will choose at least three new United Methodist Church bishops.
Sharon Austin: A passion for service and a heart for the oppressed
The Rev. Dr. Austin is the Florida Annual Conference’s Episcopal nominee for the 2022 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference.
Adventurers Leadership Academy teaches Fresh Expressions in an immersive way
Clergy and lay members from across the Conference recently earned a certificate in Fresh Expressions and Adventurers Ministry through immersive, experiential learning.
The future of the United Methodist Church: Inclusive, Respectful, Hopeful
The three-day Annual Conference focused on the question of what the Florida United Methodist Church will look like going forward. Even in uncertainty, many great things are happening.
The Boy Scout oath makes a difference when you live the words
Scouting still provides the important values of leadership, servant development, and reinforces one's duty to God and country.
Northwind Seminary fits the needs of Licensed Local Pastors
The Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church offers scholarships to the online seminary, which features top-notch individual instruction for advanced degree completion or simply inspiration.
Rev. Debbie Allen Appointed as New District Superintendent
Rev. Debbie Allen will begin her appointment as superintendent of the South West District starting July 1, 2022. Rev. Allen will replace Rev. Thom Shafer who is retiring.
Register now for Florida Advocacy Days virtual workshop
Florida Advocacy Days is nearly upon us. We feel a sense of excitement and urgency to advocate as we continue through the pandemic and look forward to doing this work with you. Children’s Week and ...
Two new District Superintendents are ready for the challenge
District superintendents play a vital role in the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. They are the liaison between the local churches and the Conference office. They are encouragers, ...
Dr. Mary Bethune's legacy: Finding diamonds in the rough
The ripples of Mary McLeod Bethune's life continue today in the lives of students and ministers inspired by her incredible story. Placing her statue in the U.S. Capitol is a fitting tribute.
The time to "Turn It Up" is fast approaching
Registration is under way for Turn It Up, the 2022 United Methodist Women Assembly at the Orlando Convention Center on May 20-22.
Hispanic Heritage Month reminds all of their profound impact on the UMC
The impact of Hispanics on Florida is profound. As of the 2020 US Census, they make up 25.5% of the state's population. Add Latinos -- the term used to describe those who hail from Latin America - ...
31 Ways to Honor Your Pastor for Clergy Appreciation Month
Creative ideas to show your appreciation with gifts your pastor can actually use!
Opening day of Annual Conference brings challenges, hope, and news
The Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church convened its second consecutive virtual Annual Conference meeting, as Bishop Ken Carter noted, "From Tallahassee and Jacksonville to the Keys." ...
Bishop Carter to Serve Western NC & Florida Conferences Starting Sept. 1
On May 14, the Council of Bishops approved episcopal supervision recommendations for the Southeastern Jurisdiction (SEJ), due to the retirement of four bishops.
Commentary: QAnon and the failure of prophecy
There have been many reports since January 20 about QAnon adherents and the failure of their prophecy about the inauguration of President Joe Biden. The advocates of the prophecy believed, among other...
Grants, scholarships available for Native Americans through FLUMC
Native Americans play an important role in the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. That role is expanding with scholarships and grants to provide the training for greater leadership ...
"As laity of the church, our work matters more now than ever"
“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tiding of great joy that will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” -- Luke 2:10-11 ...
Council urges no new US bishops for 4 years
United Methodist Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey presides over an online meeting of the denomination’s Council of Bishops. Amid financial pressure and a potential denominational split, the council called for postponing elections of new U.S. bishops and urged that five new African bishops be added only as resources allow. UM News screenshot via Zoom.
"This is when the church learns how to be the church"
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many pastors into roles for which they were not prepared, and that has led to added stress and the potential for burnout. But this trying period is also an opportunity for church growth and for members to help minister their pastors by taking things off their plates.
Seven ways to embrace the Season of Creation this fall and beyond
Around the world, United Methodists and other Christian denominations have been celebrating the Season of Creation since September 1. And although the season officially runs through St. Francis Day on...
Duke Divinity student forgives person who shot him, hopes to become voice for others
DURHAM, N.C. — A Duke University Divinity School student who was hospitalized for almost four weeks after being wounded in a drive-by shooting last month says he is relying on his faith as he continues a long journey to recovery.
Commissioning and Ordination Services Take On Special Meaning
Leadership in the time of COVID-19 takes on a special challenge that Florida United Methodists rose to accept.
New director takes helm of Conference young adult mission ministry
There are many things Heidi Aspinwall will miss about her job. One is helping young adults see their gifts and talents, while building confidence in their skills. Another is watching them experience ...
Worship and Ideas: Encouragement for Back To School
Dear Florida Conference Sisters and Brothers: In this time leading up to a new school year there is heightened anxiety about a return to class. Normally this time of year is a joyful one ...
Bishop Ken Carter's assignment to Florida is extended
In light of the postponement of the General and Jurisdictional Conferences due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, Bishop Ken Carter will continue to serve as the Resident Bishop of the Florida Conference ...
Geraldine McClellan’s call to ministry was stronger than obstacles she faced
This trailblazer in the Florida United Methodist Church shattered barriers through determination, work, and empathy for others.
Making Disciples for the Transformation of the World
Participants in Florida Advocacy Day stress social justice and other issues to state lawmakers.
Bishop Carter names Thom Shafer as South West District Superintendent
Bishop Ken Carter is pleased to announce the appointment of Rev. Thom Shafer as the new South West District Superintendent effective July 1, 2020. Rev. Shafer will follow Rev. Dan Jackson, who is ...
United Methodists head to Tallahassee for Advocacy Day
They will meet with lawmakers to push for many items related to social justice, including felon voting rights, immigration, feeding the hungry, and children’s rights.
Branches provides a lifeline where it’s needed most
The family service organization in Miami-Dade County offers education, nutrition, and financial planning to help many people break the cycle of poverty
Old racial wounds start to heal through honest conversation
Grace UMC in St. Augustine helped the city confront its racial divide and reach a joyful conclusion.
Conference has new emphasis on Hispanic/Latino ministries
A refugee from Castro’s Cuba whose family endured imprisonment and forced labor for their religious devotion, Rev. Dr. Rini Hernandez will lead the effort. He has been a church-founding pastor and Methodist district superintendent in both Cuba and Florida.
Alturas churches serve community ecumenically
The congregations routinely get together to do things, like the upcoming fall festival, which serves as a Halloween alternative. There are the Christmas cantata, the Easter sunrise service at the lake on the property of the Methodist church and the Fifth Sunday sings.
‘Matthew 25 Challenge’ focuses on lives of the least
The “Matthew 25 Challenge,’’ a weeklong event held at Orlando’s Pine Castle United Methodist Church, energized its members by not only giving back, but also by undergoing real-life exercises that were everyday occurrences for the least of their brethren.
UMW retreat celebrates 150-year legacy
UMW members had to overcome the rules of society and the limits imposed by their own national and racial identities to assume vital leadership roles.
Summer camps inspire youth to ‘do amazing things’
“I’m always in awe of how many clergy and lay people have heard the call to Christ right here on our grounds. There’s something special about this place that inspires people to go back out to the world and do amazing things.”
No matter size or location, congregations need care
Congregational Care Ministries (CCM) is a program aimed to empower lay people to work alongside their ministers. They perform services such as hospital visits, leading grief and divorce groups and even administering communion to home-bound people.
Camp is an ‘Oasis’ for urban kids
“From being a kid and a camper at Oasis, my biggest takeaway was getting to unplug from that city urban environment and going somewhere where you could be more open and reflective.”