Something a little different this week. The United Methodist Church has shared a new vision statement, and I thought you might appreciate hearing the announcement from our bishop: Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20 Greetings in the name and love of the Risen Christ! On May 1, 2025, the Council of Bishops and the Connectional Table proudly unveiled a new vision for The United Methodist Church – a vision that reflects our deep commitment to embodying God’s dream for the world. A world where every person encounters the transformative grace of Jesus Christ, where communities flourish, and where all creation is made whole. “The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.” This renewed vision is more than words – it is an invitation to embrace joy and hope as we live God’s mission. It also provides us with a clear, Christ-centered framework for missional unity and collaboration across The Florida Conference and our worldwide connection. Now, more than ever, the world needs to experience God’s boundless love. As your bishop, I wholeheartedly embrace God’s call to be and form disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously to transform lives, communities, and the world. In the months and years ahead, we will discern how each of us can participate in the new thing God is doing. To learn more about what this new vision means for us as United Methodists, I invite you to watch this video message from the Council of Bishops and the Connectional Table. Together in Christ’s mission in the world, Tom Bishop Tom Berlin Resident Bishop, Florida Conference The United Methodist Church | 
