LATEST FROM UM NEWS: Bishops zero in on challenges ahead. As The United Methodist Church starts a new season, bishops discussed financial concerns and ministry needs ahead — including faith formation and care for immigrants. Click here to read the UM News article.

Note from Jessica Scott
Associate Conference Lay Leader

Friends,

The end of the Church year is here! Tomorrow, we’ll celebrate Christ the King Sunday. It’s likely that you will even help green your local church for the Advent and Christmastide season that begins on December 1.

As the liturgical calendar closes, there’s another ending that I want to celebrate. Janet Butler Earls, FLUMC Director of Church Vitality and Leadership Development, will retire on December 31 after more than 11 years of service. While it’s not the end of her work, it is the close of a beautiful season of leadership. Janet’s work has touched lives well beyond Florida and some of that work is highlighted in this recent piece on the Conference website.

In this season of gratitude, I am thankful for the work of lay people like Janet. Looking around our connection, it’s easy to see the work of laity – not only the staff, but also the lay volunteers. From local feeding ministries to assembling disaster recovery buckets to donating gift cards for Residing Hope’s students, the lay people of the Florida Conference serve their communities near and far.

Lastly, if you haven’t yet seen it, Bishop Tom Berlin shared a statement about the recent Judicial Council rulings regarding disaffiliations. These decisions are important as we move forward in connection with one another, particularly in the ways we handle some of the business of doing life together as a worldwide church.

Thank you for all the ways you continue to lead and serve. I’m excited to usher in the new liturgical year and the preparation for our celebration of the birth of our savior.

In grace and peace,

Jessica B. Scott
Associate Conference Lay Leader, Communications

SEJ Disaster Academy

The Southeastern Jurisdiction (SEJ) faced a challenging 2024, with numerous hurricanes, floods, fires, tornadoes, and other disasters affecting our communities. These events highlighted the critical need for preparedness, collaboration, and effective response strategies.

The 2025 SEJ Disaster Academy, will be taking place January 9–12, 2025, in Fruitland Park, Florida. This event will strengthen our network and equip us with the tools and training needed to meet future challenges head-on.

Why Attend?
The SEJ Disaster Academy offers resources and sessions for everyone in disaster recovery, whether you are a seasoned professional or new to this vital work.

Registration Details
Complete the SEJ Disaster Academy Interest Registration to confirm your participation and provide the following information:

• Your role in disaster recovery (e.g., Early Response Team, Long-Term Recovery, etc.)

• Lodging preferences: Choose from campsite accommodations, motel-style rooms, commuter options, or offsite lodging.

• Session interests, including:

• Foundations for Disaster Ministry

  1. Cultural Sensitivity in Disaster Response

  2. Connecting Neighbors

  3. ERT 200 Courses

  4. And many more!

Scholarships Available
We understand that financial barriers can limit participation. Scholarships are available, so please indicate on the registration form if you need assistance. Additionally, there is an option to contribute to the scholarship fund if you’d like to help others attend.

What’s Next?
Attached, you’ll find a detailed agenda to assist with planning and registration.

Register Here: https://florida-reg.brtapp.com/SEJDisasterAcademy

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