A Legacy of Faith and Service
Peninsular Florida District Council
Empowering ministers and missionaries across the Florida peninsula to spread hope and faith.
Our Mission
To support and credential ministers dedicated to spreading the gospel.
Our Vision
To see every community in our region touched by the message of Christ.
Our Story and Commitment
Our Historical Journey
The Assemblies of God has its roots in the religious revival of the late 1800s. Many Christians in the United States and around the world felt a strong desire for more of God’s power. In response, the Holy Spirit moved among them, just as described in the book of Acts. The modern Pentecostal movement began with prayer meetings at First Assembly Bible College in Topeka, Kansas, on January 1, 1901. This revival quickly spread to Missouri, Texas, and then California. A significant three-year revival at the Azusa Street Mission in Los Angeles drew believers from across the nation and beyond, serving as a launchpad for sharing the Pentecostal message worldwide. Today, the General Council of the Assemblies of God recognizes fifty-eight distinct districts.
1925
Foundation of the Council
The Peninsular Florida District Council was established as the South Florida District to support ministers.
1952
Southeastern Bible College Relocated
During the tenure of Howard Bush, Southeastern Bible College was relocated alongside the District office on Lake Bonny
1961
Renamed to Peninsular Florida
South Florida District was renamed Peninsular Florida since nearly 50% of the district was in Northeast Florida.
1974
Largest Sunday School
Miami Central Bible Church was the largest Sunday School with an average Sunday attendance of 950.
1980
Largest Congregation
Lakeland First Assembly of God becomes the first church congregtion to exceed 1,000
1961
Construction of Camp Alafia
J. Foy Johnson buys and constructs Camp Alafia on the Alafia River in South Mulberry, Florida.
1984
Construction of Masterpiece Gardens
J. Foy Johnson relocated the the campground from Camp Alafia to Masterpiece Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida
19??
Expansion of District Office
Terry Raburn expands the district office at Lake Parker to double the capacity including updated technology and conference rooms.
Our Reach
The Peninsular Florida District Council proudly serves a diverse and expansive region, extending from the vibrant landscapes of Georgia to the serene shores of the Caribbean islands. Our reach encompasses the entire Florida peninsula, from the Suwanee River to the Atlantic Ocean, ensuring that our services and support are accessible to a wide array of communities.
We are dedicated to building strong connections across this vast area, fostering relationships that transcend geographical boundaries. By embracing the unique cultural and spiritual needs of each region, we aim to provide tailored support that empowers ministers and missionaries to effectively serve their congregations and communities.
Sections
Churches
Ministers
US Missionaries
World Missinaries
Christian Schools
Meet Our Leadership Team
Our leadership team is composed of dedicated individuals who are passionate about guiding the Peninsular Florida District Council towards fulfilling its mission. Each member brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to serving our ministers and missionaries.
Executive Presbytery
General Presbyters
Terrell R. Raburn
Albert M. Force III
Scott Young
Executive Presbyters
Northern Region: Michael Modica
Central Region: Randy K. Helms
Southern Region: Russell R. DeBord
Presbytery
| Section | Presbyter |
|---|---|
| Section 1 | Jeul Strickland |
| Section 2 | Gregory D. Hutto |
| Section 3 | Gary E. Bracewell |
| Section 4 | Derrel Strickland |
| Section 5 | Michael Modica |
| Section 6 | Eugene R Smith Jr |
| Section 7 | John R. Hensel |
| Section 8 | Randy K. Helms |
| Section 9 | Larry E. Shrodes |
| Section 10 | David ‘Brent’ Simpson |
| Section 11 | M. Wayne Blackburn |
| Section 12 | Trent Morgan |
| Section 13 | Holly S Russo |
| Section 14 | David Todd Weston |
| Section 15 | Grant R Foster |
| Section 16 | William J Cole |
| Sections 17 & 99 | Russell R DeBord |
| Black Fellowship | Michael Nelson |
| Female | Shay A Cole |
| Presbyter-At-Large | Joe Barnoske |
| Under 40 | Joshua D Johns |
Honorary Presbytery
Anthony Benigas
C Dan Betzer
Johnny M Bryant
Weldon H Gosnell
Fred D McDaniel
Edward J Russo
Honorary General Presbytery
M Wayne Blackburn
Join Our Mission
Discover how you can make a difference by supporting our initiatives. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more about our work, your involvement is crucial. Join us in empowering ministers and missionaries across the Florida peninsula and beyond.