Dear Florida District Pastors,

Over the last twenty-four hours, our state has been hit by another devasting storm, Hurricane Idalia. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this storm in Florida and beyond. I wanted to summarize the initial damage reports from our presbyters and pastors in the hardest-hit areas. 

Dear Florida District Pastors,

Rev. Larry Sims of Soul’s Port UPC in Tallahassee, Florida, has faithfully served the Florida District for several years as our “Disaster Relief Coordinator.” Only God knows the time and sacrifices he and his wife have made to help so many in their time of need. For this, we all are eternally grateful.

Since 1952, Apostolic men, women, and children have been able to make their way to the Florida District United Pentecostal Church Campground in Ocala during the summer. While there, they have found renewed hope and strength during the events held on these sacred grounds. 2023 has been no exception.

Greetings, Florida District Pastors:

We are excited to announce the launch of the new UPCI ministerial license application process. This new process will affect all first-time applicants, as well as all upgrades, and reinstatements. 

Congratulations to the following people:

I want to remind you of our upcoming District Conference and inform you of two exciting developments concerning voting and annual reports…

Monday, June 7, 2021, was a special day for our district. After months of renovations, upgrades, and immeasurable effort, the Florida Campgrounds opened its gates to our first wave of young people attending our summer camps.

For one year, I watched as it sat in total silence. Gates closed, doors locked, and the lights were out. For the first time in decades, the Florida Campground was not bustling with the activity of multiple events that generally fill our calendar year.

However, a few months ago, we began to see some light at the end of the tunnel.

Our 2021 Florida District Conference now rests in the pages of history. I cannot express enough my gratitude for everyone that worked so diligently, both out front and behind the scenes, to ensure such a great meeting.  The attendance far exceeded our expectations, and the Spirit of the Lord was incredible. 

Greetings in the matchless name of Jesus Christ! I want to update you on our upcoming 2021 Florida District Conference. 

On Thursday, January 7th, the Florida District Board met to discuss this meeting's best possible approach. We are going to utilize the same format we have used in the past. 

Acts 5:34
Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel... 

In life, we face things that bring conflict or confusion. Often, these situations carry a measure of despair. However, regardless of what we may face, God can place a voice in our lives that can bring solace.

We may see hopelessness, but they can look beyond the broken and twisted pieces and see them restored! Some of these people are artisans of sorts.

Acts 9:11
”And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,”

The last three words of this passage should bring relief to every child of God that has ever read them.

I want to congratulate Brother Jeremy Stafford on his election today to the General Youth Secretary position.

There is little doubt that our state is feeling the crushing weight of COVID-19 like never before. Unfortunately, several of our pastors, ministers, and church families have been affected.

While it seems things in our world are spiraling out of control, there are some truths we must remember. Even amid the chaos, God has a way of preserving His people. While we are not exempt from being touched by sickness and disease, God has a way of sending what we need at the exact moment we need it most.

We are excited about Florida Virtual Campmeeting that will be airing this week, July 8,9, and 10 at 7:30 p.m. each evening on Facebook and YouTube.

Hundreds of people from all across Florida have been involved in recording these services at four different locations.

With more and more restrictions lifted, we finally see our church doors opened and pews occupied. I am sure you agree with me, this is a beautiful sight! Even with our social distancing, it's refreshing to see the church back together.

While I am so thankful that most churches were able to stay connected via the tools of technology, what was missing was "being together!"

It is with great regret, and many consultations with the leadership of other UPCI Districts, that the Florida District Board voted last night to cancel our 2020 Children's Ministry Camps, Youth Camps, and Camp Meeting.

Please know that this decision was not made lightly or in a vacuum. However, due to health concerns with large groups, we find that it is in the best interest of all concerned to take this unprecedented step. These matters were prayerfully considered, and we appreciate your understanding at this time.

Proverbs 18:21 , we read the familiar words of the wise man, Solomon, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue…"

Many illustrations potentially crowd our minds when we think about this passage. Perhaps it takes you back to a message you've preached or heard in the past. Maybe, this scripture reminds you of something that was said that impacted your life. That moment underlined the fact of how powerful words can be.