01.21.25

Note from Jessica Scott
Associate Conference Lay Leader

Friends,

Changes, changes, changes. It feels like everything is changing right now. Sunday in Florida, we learned of changes in leadership at the Conference.Yesterday in the United States, we saw a change of federal administrations. And tomorrow, who knows? All these shifts have me turning to Isaiah 43:18-19:

Do not remember the former things or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

As we navigate the ebbs and flows of change, let us remember that God makes a way in the wilderness – It’s normal! While change isn’t always our favorite, most comfortable experience, it is the constant. I encourage you to look for the new thing that God is doing in your life, in your community, and in your local church. Most importantly, ask how you can be part of what’s next.

Speaking of what’s next, Laity Space would be remiss if we didn’t pause to acknowledge the invaluable service of Craig Smelser. Since 2008, he has worked in various roles ensuring the financial stability and integrity of the Conference. For 16 years of dedicated service and commitment to the people of the Florida Conference, we are so grateful. Please join everyone at Laity Space in congratulating Craig on his next adventure.

Friends, there is so much happening this year in the Florida United Methodist Church. As we move closer to annual conference season, you should begin to hear more about Worldwide Regionalization. The vote for whether to approve the recommendation of the General Conference will come before delegates at annual conference. Stay tuned to this space, as well as the FLUMC website for more information and special learning sessions ahead of our June meeting.

As always, please be sure to check out all the ways you can get involved at every level of the UMC.

California Wild Fires - How You Can Help

1. Direct Contributions to the California-Pacific Conference Fund

   Support relief efforts specifically for those impacted by the wildfires by giving directly to the Cal-Pac Fund. Click here to donate.

2. Support through UMCOR

   The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) provides disaster response and recovery across the United States, including relief for the Los Angeles County wildfires. Contributions to UMCOR ensure swift and effective aid wherever it is needed. Click here to give to UMCOR’s U.S. Disaster Response.

Conference-wide training has kicked off! Be sure to register for your classes today.

The Laity Space Podcast has relaunched and now focused on telling the stories of how laity are serving in a broad ministry areas.. Be sure to check it out wherever you listen to podcasts. 

Jessica Scott
Associate Conference Lay Leader

FLUMC Local Church Training

Empower your ministry with essential skills, inspiring insights, and valuable resources tailored for local church leaders. Trainings are via zoom covering seven topics over six months. For more information on the offerings and registration, click HERE.

Laity Space is the online information hub for the laity of the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church.