Together, we are the body of Christ ~ transforming people from members into disciples, moving more deeply into God's call to life and ministry, and extending our mission beyond the status quo.

Pastoral Message from Bishop Russell

& Invitation to an Hour of Prayer on Feb 2

Bishop Russell offers a thoughtful pastoral message to the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast. Drawing on Scripture and the wisdom of the wider Church, he reflects on prayer not as passive retreat, but as discernment that shapes faithful action. He also invites the diocese to join together for a shared hour of prayer on Candlemas, as we listen for God’s call and seek healing, unity, and hope.

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Meginniss memorial included in new WWII exhibits in the state’s Museum of Alabama

by Steve Murray and Albert Kennington

The Museum of Alabama at the state’s Department of Archives and History is dedicated to telling the stories of Alabamians throughout history, using records and artifacts to connect today’s visitors with the experiences of those in the past. Prominent in this telling has been the service of Alabama men and women in uniform, both within the state’s borders and around the world.

Following years of planning and five months of construction, the Museum opened major updates to its military exhibits in November with the dedication of Alabama Military Stories. The new gallery explores the themes of service, community, and legacy in the lives of service members, veterans, and their families. The space will feature rotating displays of materials.

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Reflections on the Significance of Celebrating Black History Month in the United States*

by Joe McDaniel, Jr., co-chair of the Commission on Racial Justice & Reconciliation and member of The Executive Council of The Episcopal Church

Black History Month, observed annually in February in the United States, serves as a vital time to recognize and reflect upon the contributions, struggles, and history of Black individuals and communities. Established as a means to combat racism and foster a deeper understanding of the African American experience, this month emphasizes the importance of education, remembrance, and advocacy. As we delve into the significance of Black History Month, it becomes evident that it offers essential lessons on resilience, justice, and equality. 

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*originally published by The Episcopal Church, February 5, 2025

55th Annual Diocesan Convention: "Let There Be Light"

Mark your calendars for the 55th Annual Diocesan Convention to be held February 27-28, 2026, at the Hilton Pensacola Beach. Our host will be St. Francis of Assisi, Gulf Breeze. Our theme this year is "Let There Be Light" and will focus on creation and creativity!

Diocesan Convention is our primary gathering of clergy and lay representatives from across the Central Gulf Coast, where we worship together, make decisions that shape our common life, celebrate the ministries flourishing in our congregations, and discern how God is calling us forward. It is an essential expression of our shared governance and mission.

And you don't have to be a delegate to attend the convention. Everyone is invited. Come enjoy our diocesan community! Registration is open!

VISIT THE CONVENTION WEBPAGE

5-Week Lenten Study

Reconciliation: From Ashes to Peace

Join us this Lent for a special 5-week Lenten Study titled Reconciliation: From Ashes to Peace, created for our diocese by Anita Ford, certified pastoral care leader in the Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast.

We’ve recently added a new component to our five-week Lenten study: weekly, facilitated Zoom sessions on Thursday evenings at 6 p.m. throughout Lent. If you are interested in serving as a facilitator for your small group, we invite you to join a training session on February 5 at 6 p.m. Register for the Zoom link here.

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Diocesan-wide Prayer Vigil

Monday, February 2, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m CT

Everyone across the diocese is invited to join a shared hour of prayer gathering in churches, homes, small groups, or online as we seek Christ’s light, deepen our unity, and listen together for God’s hopeful call among us. Prepare your hearts by watching Bishop Russell's latest pastoral message.

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Happening #63

February 6-7, 2026

St. Christopher's, 3200 N 12th Ave, Pensacola

Registration is now open for Happening #63.

Happening is a weekend retreat for teens in grades 9th-12th led by teens under the guidance of adult leadership. It’s a weekend of renewal, connection, and joy where high school students discover how their faith meets real life. Through music, laughter, talks, small groups, and powerful moments of worship, participants (“Happeners”) experience the love of Christ and the support of a caring Christian community.

HAPPENING WEBPAGE - read more details about Happening and register!

HAPPENING ANNOUNCEMENT - learn how you can help encourage teenagers to attend!

JUST ADDED! CARITAS LIST - What is Caritas? Caritas, signs of God's love through letters, messages, and small tokens, is distributed at times throughout the weekend to deepen fellowship and to demonstrate the knowledge and support that comes to each weekend from the "wider church." Send or drop off caritas to St. Christopher's at 3200 N 12th Ave, Pensacola, FL 32503.

The cost is $75. Scholarships are available. For questions or financial assistance, please contact our Happening Coordinator, Meghan Johnson, at meghantj02@gmail.com.

Becoming Beloved Community Sacred Conversations Workshop

Saturday, February 14, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT

Grace Episcopal Church, 9101 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach

Sponsored by the Commission on Racial Justice & Reconciliation

Join us for a workshop that will provide insights into the causes and effects of racism. We explore ways to work together.

We explore unconscious bias, prejudice, white privilege, and ways to work together to Become the Beloved Community. This offering is required for those in parish leadership (such as vestry members) and at the diocesan level (including those serving on commissions, committees, agencies, or boards). It also qualifies for eight hours of clergy training/education for those who complete the full-day course. There is no fee to participate, but it requires a commitment to be engaged for the full day. Limited to 28 participants. Registration closes on February 9.

REGISTRATION | EVENT FLYER

Black History Program featuring Joe McDaniel, Jr.

Sunday, February 22, 11 a.m. CT

Macedonia Baptist Church, 3802 N 9th Ave, Pensacola

Sponsored by the Commission on Racial Justice & Reconciliation and Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church

We invite you to join us as we welcome Joe McDaniel, Jr. for a timely and thoughtful presentation entitled:

“Religious Rhetoric and the Civil Rights Movement: Past Lessons for Present Justice.” This gathering will offer space to reflect on the enduring role of faith in movements for justice—and how those lessons continue to guide us today.

55th Annual Diocesan Convention

February 27-28, 2026

Hilton Pensacola Beach

Join us as a delegate or a visitor for the 55th Annual Diocesan Convention! St. Francis of Assisi, Gulf Breeze, will be our gracious hosts at the Hilton on Pensacola Beach. We are excited to share that our theme will be "Let There Be Light" with a focus on creativity and creation! Registration is now open, and all are welcome to attend.

VISIT OUR CONVENTION WEBPAGE

Men's Conference

February 27-March 1, 2026

Beckwith, 10400 Beckwith Ln, Fairhope

Men from across the diocese are invited to the Men’s Conference at Camp Beckwith for a weekend of rest, renewal, and brotherhood. This year’s conference features the Rev. Scott Gunn, who will guide us through the practices of The Way of Love as explored in his book "Exploring the Way of Love." Through worship, music, conversation, and unhurried time together, this retreat offers space to step away from daily demands and reconnect with God and one another. Come as you are and be part of a meaningful weekend in community.

CONFERENCE BROCHURE | REGISTRATION

Latest Press Releases From The Episcopal Church

Jan 27

Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe: Support emergency migration ministry

As the situation in the United States grows more fraught, The Episcopal Church is working to find new ways to care for God’s people in our immigrant communities. Many of you have asked how you can help. Read more.

Jan 25

From Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe: Death and despair do not have the last word

Dear people of God in The Episcopal Church: Like Jesus, we live in frightening times. His earthly ministry began, as we heard in today’s Gospel reading, when John the Baptist was imprisoned by authorities who wanted to silence his preaching and prophesying. Read more.

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