06/12/2026
📍 Annual Conference Recap | Friday & Saturday
Friday morning included the opportunity to present the Cabinet report and participate in a scholarship check presentation for Gammon Theological Seminary. Rev. Brett DeHart (First Sarasota) represented our district during the Fresh Expressions report, and the Youth Delegation shared their report, including remarks from Mary Holden of The Channel.
Throughout the day, it was a joy to connect with clergy and laity from across the South West District, including several candidates for ministry from Cornerstone Naples.
Friday evening featured Rev. Beth Bostrom (First Palmetto) speaking at the MFSA dinner, followed by a moving Memorial Service hosted by Rev. Dr. Robert Bledsoe (Trinity Bradenton) and members of the Trinity congregation. Rev. Nick Lee (Harvest) and Rev. Denise Sawyer also participated in the service.
Saturday brought several moments of celebration. A resolution regarding Lay Servant Ministry presented by Bobbi Bellardine of Trinity North Port was approved by the conference, and Rev. Sarah Wise spoke on behalf of Justice Ministries.
We then officially fixed the appointments and concluded Annual Conference with the Service of Licensing, Commissioning, and Ordination. We celebrate Rev. Liz Maldonado (Nuevo Pacto), who served as a marshal, Rev. Kaylee Vida, who was ordained, and Rev. Abdel Rodriguez (Tice) and Rev. Anthony DiRemiggio (Hope), who were licensed as Local Pastors.
What a blessing to gather, worship, discern, and celebrate all that God is doing across our conference. Faith is rising indeed! ✨🙌
