01.06.25

Note from Jessica Scott
Associate Conference Lay Leader

Dear friends,

Happy New Year! Looking back, 2024 was a busy one for the United Methodist Church, especially here in the Florida Conference. We saw multiple natural disasters and worked to help neighbors near and far begin the road to recovery. We mourned the loss of leaders and welcomed new lay and clergy leadership at all levels. We made great strides toward inclusion and celebrated new beginnings.

Looking ahead, there is so much good work and lots of exciting projects on the horizon. As leaders, it’s important that we stay abreast the latest guidelines and responsibilities of our roles. Please take advantage of the free training and resources offered by FLUMC. Be sure to encourage your local leaders to register, too. The first session is January 15!

As you may have already heard, Laurie Hofts has accepted a role outside the Church and will be leaving this month after nearly 15 years of service. Laurie has been invaluable to FLUMC and her parting, while exciting, is bittersweet.

“I was not looking for a job, but God put a new calling right in front of me as the company only came searching for me,” she shared. “I look forward to seeing how God will use me in in the secular world.”

We’re so thankful for all of your service, Laurie and wish you the very best as you continue your lay ministry outside the walls of the church!

Finally, I hope you’ve all had a joyous, peaceful Christmastide. As this season comes to a close and the new year begins, I want to express my sincere gratitude for all the ways you lead and inspire the laity of the UMC. The impact of your ministry is felt beyond your local community and throughout our global connection.

Happy, happy new year!

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.

Be sure to register for the 2025 SEJ Disaster Academy, happening January 9-12, 2025 at the Warren Willis United Methodist Camp and Conference Center. With relief agencies stretched thin, volunteers are needed more than ever. Click HERE for more information.

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