Monthly Archives: February 2025

Church Conference in Pensacola

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The church conference held this year in Pensacola, the westernmost city in Florida’s Panhandle, was an event that truly resonated with the hearts of many. Pensacola, with its rich historical roots dating back to the first Spanish colonial settlement in 1559, served as the perfect backdrop for a time of reflection, healing, and renewal. As one of the most beloved destinations in the area, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultural scene, Pensacola proved to be the ideal location for a gathering focused on experiencing God’s mercy and love.

Emma, a passionate speaker and servant of God, was the keynote speaker for the conference. Her message, centered on the mercy of God, captivated the congregation, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who attended. The church, situated near the beautiful Pensacola Bay, welcomed hundreds of attendees who gathered not only to learn but to feel the powerful presence of God in the heart of this historic city.

As Emma took the stage, she began by acknowledging the unique setting in which the conference was taking place. Pensacola, known for its breathtaking views and rich history, became an illustration of God’s timeless mercy. Emma shared how the city itself, founded on the shores of the bay in 1559, was a place where many generations had been touched by the mercy and grace of God. Just as Pensacola’s residents enjoy the beauty of the beaches and its sunny weather, they too experience God’s mercy, which shines brighter than the sun.

“God’s mercy,” Emma began, “is like the warm sun that shines on Pensacola’s beaches. It reaches everyone, regardless of where they come from or what their past may hold.” She reminded everyone that mercy is not just for those who have it all together but is especially for those who feel lost, broken, or unworthy. She spoke of the mercy of God as a beacon of hope, much like the historic Saenger Theatre, which has stood as a cultural landmark in the city since 1925. Just as the theater has seen countless performances and memories, God’s mercy continues to perform miracles in the lives of those who reach out to Him.

Emma referenced Mark 1:40-42, where a man with leprosy came to Jesus, pleading for healing. In Mark’s account, Jesus is described as being “moved with compassion” before He touched the man and said, “I will; be thou clean.” “This is the mercy of God in action,” Emma explained, emphasizing that God’s compassion is not limited by the severity of our circumstances. She noted that just as Jesus was moved by the man’s plight, He is still moved by the needs of His people today.

“God’s mercy,” Emma continued, “does not stop at forgiveness of sins. It extends into every area of life.” She spoke passionately about how God’s mercy is available for healing, restoration, and provision. Drawing on the theme of the conference, she highlighted that God’s mercy is not just for spiritual needs but for physical, emotional, and financial challenges as well. Emma shared personal stories of how God’s mercy had helped her overcome financial struggles, relational hardships, and even health issues. “God’s mercy is not just a nice idea,” she said. “It’s a powerful force that transforms lives.”

As the evening progressed, Emma delved deeper into the theme of God’s mercy, focusing on how it touches every aspect of our lives, even when we make mistakes. She explained how people often experience shame and guilt when they face the consequences of their poor choices, but she reminded the audience that mercy is available in those moments too. “Mercy is not for the perfect; it’s for the broken,” Emma declared, quoting from Psalm 107:17, which speaks of how “fools, because of their iniquities, are afflicted.” Emma encouraged everyone to acknowledge their mistakes, repent, and embrace God’s mercy, just as the leper had done in Mark’s Gospel.

The audience, many of whom had traveled from surrounding areas such as Alabama, took in Emma’s words with deep introspection. Pensacola, with its mix of cultural, historical, and natural beauty, seemed like the perfect setting to reflect on God’s mercy. The conference took place in the midst of a season where Pensacola’s beaches are full of life, the sun is shining, and the city’s historic venues like the Pensacola Museum of Art are filled with visitors appreciating the richness of the past. Yet Emma reminded everyone that it was not the city’s beauty that made it special, but the mercy of God that is available to all, regardless of where they are in life.

Emma’s message echoed throughout the room, and she reminded the attendees of how God’s mercy is a cornerstone of their faith. “You don’t have to earn His mercy,” she said. “All you have to do is ask.” She quoted Matthew 15:22, where a woman cries out to Jesus, “Lord, have mercy on me,” and in that moment, she received His healing touch. Emma stressed that mercy is available to everyone, no matter their situation or past. She spoke of how people from all walks of life, including those who were blind, crippled, or oppressed, received God’s mercy and healing, and she assured the attendees that the same mercy is available today.

As the conference came to a close, Emma left the congregation with a powerful thought: “Mercy is not something we deserve, but it’s something God freely gives. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being willing to receive His grace.” She encouraged everyone to leave Pensacola with a renewed sense of hope, knowing that no matter what their circumstances may be, God’s mercy is always available to them.

The Pensacola church conference, set against the backdrop of the historic city and its sunny beaches, was truly an unforgettable event. Through Emma’s heartfelt message, attendees were reminded of the boundless mercy of God that continues to heal, restore, and provide for those who seek it. As Pensacola’s residents and visitors enjoyed the beauty of the city, they were also reminded of the eternal beauty of God’s mercy, which surpasses all understanding and is always ready to embrace those who call upon His name.

Sarasota Church Newsletter

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Written by Harriet

A City of Beauty and Faith
Greetings, dear brothers and sisters in Christ! Sarasota is a city blessed with natural beauty, cultural vibrance, and a strong, faithful community. Whether you are a long-time resident or a visitor exploring our city’s artistic heartbeat, Sarasota is a place where faith and creativity walk hand in hand. From the famed Chalk Festival to the inspiring Sarasota Film Festival, there is no shortage of opportunities to appreciate the beauty of human expression. Yet, beyond these worldly pleasures, we know that our greatest joy and inspiration come from the Lord, who has blessed us abundantly in this city.

This month, we have been witnessing the powerful move of God in our church and throughout Sarasota. Hearts are being stirred, lives are being transformed, and the fire of revival is igniting among us. As we come together to worship, let us be reminded that God is working in ways we may not even see. He is shaping, molding, and leading us just as a skilled producer crafts a masterpiece—pausing at just the right moments, shifting the scenes, and ensuring that His perfect plan unfolds before us.

A Call to Embrace Our Unique Anointing
In our journey of faith, comparison often sneaks in and clouds our vision. But as we have learned, comparison is containing many—it limits us from stepping into the fullness of our calling. Let us not seek to emulate someone else’s gift or anointing but rather embrace the unique purpose God has placed within each of us. Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 13:5 to examine ourselves, to walk in faith, and to recognize the power that is at work within us.

Kym, one of our beloved members, shared a testimony this past Sunday about how God led her to step into unfamiliar territory, much like Abraham when God brought him beneath the night sky and showed him the vastness of His promise. She had always admired the ministry of others, yet it was when she surrendered her desire to imitate and instead sought God’s direct guidance that she found her true calling. Today, she ministers to those who feel unseen, reminding them that God’s love knows no bounds.

The Power of the Holy Spirit in Sarasota
As we step into this new season, the fire of His purification is falling upon us. We are witnessing an outpouring of His Spirit like never before. Just as Jesus came to heal the sick and destroy the works of the enemy, so too is He raising up mighty warriors among us. Some of you have been facing trials—whether in finances, health, or relationships—but take heart, for God is at work! He is turning your trials into testimonies, your struggles into victories.

At our recent worship night, a powerful moment occurred. As we lifted our voices, the presence of God became so tangible that people were falling to their knees in reverence. Some were weeping, others were overcome with joy, and many received healing in ways they never imagined. One woman shared how she had been battling an illness for years, yet during the service, she felt the Lord tell her to stand in faith. The next morning, she went to her doctor, and to her astonishment, she was given a clean bill of health! Truly, nothing is impossible for our God.

A Message for Church Leaders and Pastors
To our dear pastors and church leaders, we encourage you to prepare for what the Spirit of God is doing. The coming days will not look like what we have planned, but we must remain open to His leading. Even those who feel unshakable may be surprised at the level of offense they encounter in this season, yet we must guard our hearts and fix our eyes on Jesus.

One pastor shared that he had been struggling with feelings of inadequacy, questioning if he was truly making a difference. But then, God spoke to him through a simple encounter with a young boy at a grocery store. The child, who attended his Sunday school, ran up to him and said, “Pastor, thank you for teaching me about Jesus. He is my best friend now.” That single moment reminded him that every seed we plant matters.

A Season of Restoration and Worship
We believe that Sarasota is entering a season of divine restoration. Just as we water our gardens and trust that the water will bring growth, so too must we trust that the seeds we have sown in faith will bear fruit. Our chapels, hospitals, and schools will be filled with testimonies of God’s goodness. The blessing is spreading to every branch of our mission, and we look forward to the great work ahead.

As we gather each Sunday, let us embrace prophetic praise—praising God ahead of time for the victories He has already secured. Whether you are facing uncertainty or standing on the mountaintop of breakthrough, know that you are not alone. God is moving, and He is faithful.

Closing Thoughts
Dear friends, let us not grow weary in our faith. Sarasota is more than just a beautiful city; it is a city where God’s presence is tangible, where hearts are being revived, and where the gospel is reaching every corner. As we look ahead, may we remain steadfast, bold in our faith, and unwavering in our commitment to follow where God leads.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His light shine upon Sarasota, today and always.

In Christ’s love,
Harriet

The Winds of Deliverance: A Sermon in Tampa

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Introduction Tampa, a city of vibrant culture, natural beauty, and boundless energy, was the setting for an unforgettable sermon by Elodie. Standing before a congregation eager for God’s word, she spoke against the backdrop of Tampa Bay’s rolling waves, a reminder of the endless grace of the Lord. In this bustling city of 384,000 residents, where history and modernity intertwine, the message of deliverance and divine establishment rang clear.

Chapter 1: The Displacement of the Enemy

Elodie began her sermon by calling the congregation to declare aloud, “The Lord has shown me that many believers have been in a place of feeling like they were continually contending with the enemy.” The words echoed through the sanctuary, a powerful chorus of faith in the heart of Tampa. She continued, describing the cycles of battle that so many had been facing—cycles of fear, doubt, and oppression.

“But I saw,” she proclaimed, “with one fell swoop of the Lord’s hand, the displacement of the enemy was taking place!” A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd. “Where the Lord is displacing the enemy, He is now branding those territories with establishment. There is a deep-rooted fortification taking place in Christ, and in the freedom we find in Him.”

She encouraged the people to reflect on their struggles, the ongoing battles they had faced, and assured them that the Lord’s recompense was near. “My recompense,” the Lord says, “is far outweighing the battle and warfare you have endured.” The room was thick with the presence of God as people nodded, lifted their hands, and embraced the words of victory.

“God’s decree is this: ‘Yes indeed, it won’t be long now.’” The promise of breakthrough was not for a distant future, but for now! The Lord had been making room for increase, not for loss. Every battle had been preparation, and every delay had been a divine setup for an extraordinary comeback.

Chapter 2: Healing and the Power of God’s Word

As the Hillsborough River flowed steadily outside, Elodie transitioned into speaking about healing. “Jehovah Jireh,” she said, “is our provider. He sees ahead and provides before we even know what we need.”

She turned to Mark 1:41: “And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth His hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, ‘I will; be thou clean.’” This moment was a defining one in the sermon. “God is still the healer today! He is Jehovah-Rapha, the Lord who heals.”

A woman in the front row wept softly, and Elodie’s eyes locked on her with compassion. “God’s Word is medicine,” she continued. “You thought the vision was over and gone. You thought His promises had fallen to the ground. But no—He was making room for something greater.”

The atmosphere shifted as the presence of the Holy Spirit became palpable. “These are the days of deliverance and a powerful move of God’s hand! The Lord is increasing the winds of deliverance upon His people. He is uprooting deep-rooted evil and injustice, and He is bringing forth justice by His mighty hand.”

She led the congregation in prayer, inviting them to release their burdens. “God is moving in unprecedented ways,” she declared. “You may have walked through fiery seasons, but the fire of the Lord is refining you, not destroying you!”

As the sermon neared its conclusion, Elodie spoke of strength. “The Living Bible says, ‘Your strength must come from the Lord’s mighty power within you.’ You don’t have to fight this battle alone. He is fighting for you. He is Jehovah-Nissi, the Lord our Victory!”

Conclusion: Taking Hold of the Promise

The final moments of the sermon were charged with expectation. “Be even more alert,” Elodie urged, “for how God will move. He will not be mocked by the pride of man. His justice is coming.”

With a final declaration, she encouraged each person to take hold of their breakthrough. “You are taking your place for such a time as this. Step out of apology and build boldly with God! He is establishing something new through you.”

As the congregation stood to their feet, worship filled the sanctuary. The wind of deliverance had blown through Tampa that day, and lives were forever changed. The city, with all its beauty and history, had witnessed a mighty move of God. For indeed, the Lord is still Jehovah-Jireh, Jehovah-Rapha, and Jehovah-Nissi. The God of provision, healing, and victory.