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Office Closure and Availability Notice

The Presbytery of Tampa Bay office will observe the Independence Day holiday and will be closed on Thursday, July 2nd & Friday, July 3rd. Regular office hours will resume on Monday, July 6.

Please also note that Stated Clerk Rev. Bill Wildhack is attending the 227th General Assembly and will have limited availability through July 6. Associate Presbyter Rev. Doug McMahon will be joining him and will also have limited availability during that time.

“We must obey God rather than any human authority” (Acts 5:29)

As we celebrate July 4th and the Declaration of Independence, I started thinking about our history as Presbyterians—after all, Presbyterians arrived in this country as early as 1630, and the first Presbytery was formed in 1706! The American Revolution was even called the “Presbyterian Rebellion” in some circles—especially in England. Presbyterians fought for the freedoms in our Bill of Rights because “God alone is Lord of the Conscience”. They fought for freedom from religious and government tyranny.  

Our church polity was influential in forming our government’s representative democracy; John Witherspoon, the only minister to sign the Declaration of Independence was a Presbyterian, as were 11 other original signers!! A recent book about lesser-known founder James Wilson, a key legal mind who helped shape the Constitution, was also Presbyterian, and one of the first Supreme Court Justices.

I am proud of our heritage, proud of the denomination I feel called to serve, but I also realize the sacrifices it took during these past centuries for us to get where we are today. Presbyterians haven’t always been on the right side of history, however. When I think of our national sin of slavery, I understand why Juneteeth is a more significant date to celebrate than July 4th for many African Americans. Throughout our history, many Presbyterians have given their very lives fighting for the freedoms we enjoy today, we honor them and all who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We must stand on their shoulders.

My friends, let us not take our democracy, our Presbyterian tradition or each other for granted. Our body, the body of Christ is a gift we must never forget. We need each other! We are a connectional church, big and small, let us celebrate our unique gifts and strive for a more perfect union. Let us pray for our commissioners and Presbytery staff as they attend our General Assembly. May God guide them in their deliberations as they represent Tampa Bay. And may God Bless each and every one of you as we claim our Presbyterian witness in the 21st century.

Rev. Deborah Haffner Hubbard

Associate Presbyter for Congregational Vitality

For those interested in following the 226th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), additional information is available through pcusa.org. The website includes live streaming of plenary sessions, news updates from Milwaukee, and other General Assembly resources.

2026 Downloadable Emergency Alert Resources, and Disaster Preparedness Guides

The Civil and Community Emergency Alerts and Disaster Guides have been updated for counties within the Presbytery of Tampa Bay. As the 2026 hurricane season began, June 1, congregations are encouraged to review their county's resources and preparedness information.

Hurricane season is here and FLAPDAN would like to share some preparedness information with your congregations. Click the link below for downloadable bulletin inserts and power point announcement slides in both English and Spanish.

Mark your calendar for the next racial equity educational workshop, which is scheduled for Oct 23, 2026 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM) at Trinity PC – Clearwater.

Making the Most of Your PRC Membership

Churches in the Presbytery of Tampa Bay have access to a variety of resources through their Practical Resource (PRC) membership. These resources are designed to support congregations, church leaders, staff, and volunteers in their ministries.

Ministry Opportunites inside

The Presbytery of Tampa Bay

First Presbyterian Church, Dunedin -

NEW! Director of Music (Full-Time Position)

455 Scotland Street,

Dunedin, FL 34698

(727)-733-2318

Summary of Position:

Dunedin First Presbyterian Church is seeking a full-time Director of Music for Congregation and Community who believes music can heal, overcome isolation, and build Beloved Community for all. This leader will shape dynamic worship experiences, lead bands, choirs, and volunteers, and carry music beyond church walls into the heart of the community. More than managing services, this role is about creating spaces where strangers become neighbors, people encounter hope and belonging, and all are sent to serve the world together.

All inquiries about this position should be directed to:

drtony@drtonymcneill.com or call/text 678-404-2927

Palm Harbor Presbyterian Church -

NEW! Pastoral Associate (Part-Time Position)

2021 Nebraska Ave.,

Palm Harbor, FL 34683

(727)-784-7274

Position Summary:

The Pastoral Associate is a key part of the Presbyterian Church of Palm Harbor’s (PCPH) leadership team, contributing to achieving the mission of the church and providing key spiritual, administrative, and pastoral support. This person will serve alongside the Pastor, specifically assisting in leading the church staff and session members in calling, equipping, and sending the congregation in ministry to be disciples in Christ’s work in the world. The Pastoral Associate will also support and enhance existing ministries and help open the door to new discipleship opportunities and innovations. In times of pastoral transition, the Pastoral Associate (with oversight and approval from the session) will help and guide the disciples of the church and sustain the ministries through the job description listed below.

Please contact Palm Harbor Presbyterian Church for further information regarding the application process.