The 5 Most Surprising Ways First UMC Lakeland FL Is Transforming Central Florida In 2025
First United Methodist Church (FUMC) Lakeland, FL, is not just a historic landmark in Polk County; it is a dynamic center of community transformation. As of December 22, 2025, the church continues its mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, focusing on deeply rooted local outreach and diverse worship experiences.
The latest and most compelling update is their significant new partnership with the Dream Center, which is set to dramatically expand local support services. This, coupled with a vibrant array of four distinct Sunday services and a committed pastoral staff, defines FUMC Lakeland's powerful presence in Central Florida today.
Current FUMC Lakeland FL Pastoral Leadership and Staff
The leadership team at First United Methodist Church Lakeland is dedicated to guiding the congregation through its mission of discipleship and community service. The church's direction is helmed by a team of experienced pastors and staff members, ensuring a variety of spiritual and community needs are met.
- Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Charley Reeb. Rev. Dr. Reeb was appointed as the Senior Pastor by Bishop Berlin and is the primary visionary for the church’s theological and community focus.
- Associate Pastor: Rev. Andy Whitaker Smith. Pastor Andy is actively involved in community life, including leading specific programs like the Adult Advent Study.
- Associate Pastor: Rev. Kim DuBreuil. Rev. DuBreuil serves as another key member of the pastoral staff, helping to manage the church’s broad range of ministries.
- Other Key Ministries: The church also benefits from a large support staff, including leaders for Midweek Programming, Children’s Ministries (like Vacation Bible School or VBS), Youth Groups, and a dedicated team for the extensive Concert Series.
This team is responsible for overseeing the church's commitment to John Wesley’s structure of Methodism, which places a strong focus on active discipleship and service.
Four Distinct Ways to Worship: From Tradition to 'The Current'
First UMC Lakeland understands that spiritual journeys are personal and diverse, which is why they offer four unique worship experiences every Sunday. This intentional variety allows members of the Lakeland community to find a service that resonates most deeply with their faith style.
The church hosts a mix of traditional and contemporary settings, ensuring everyone feels welcome, whether they prefer classic hymns or modern worship music. Communion is a regular feature, offered each Sunday in one of the contemporary services.
- 8:15 AM Sanctuary Worship: This is a more traditional service, held in the historic Sanctuary, featuring classic hymns and a formal liturgy.
- 9:30 AM Contemporary Worship: A lively service featuring contemporary worship music, often streamed live, providing an energetic start to the morning.
- 11:00 AM Sanctuary Worship: The second traditional service in the Sanctuary, often attracting a large congregation.
- 11:00 AM The Current: A unique, modern worship experience. This contemporary service is known for its intimate setting and is the one that offers Communion every Sunday. It is a key offering for those seeking a less formal, yet deeply spiritual, connection.
Furthermore, the church is committed to accessibility, providing ASL (American Sign Language) interpretation for some of its services, underscoring its commitment to inclusion within the community.
FUMC Lakeland's Newest and Most Vital Community Partnerships
First UMC Lakeland has a rich tradition of supporting ministry partners both financially and through hands-on service, both locally and globally. Their commitment to community outreach is a core part of their mission, and recent announcements highlight a significant expansion of this effort.
The most compelling recent development is the church’s partnership with the Dream Center. In a press release dated July 18, 2025, FUMC Lakeland announced they are working with the Dream Center to help provide new shower facilities for those in need in the Lakeland area. This initiative directly addresses a critical need for hygiene and dignity among the vulnerable population in Polk County.
In addition to this new project, the church continues to champion its established, impactful community programs:
- Neighborhood Ministries: This ministry is focused on sharing the love of Jesus Christ by offering a safe, recreational, and spiritual experience, particularly for children and youth in the local community. It serves as a vital after-school and enrichment program.
- Stewardship 2025: The annual stewardship campaign is a major focus for the church, encouraging members to give of their gifts and themselves so that others may know God’s love. This financial commitment is what powers the extensive mission work.
- JOY January Sheriff's Leadership Council Tour (January 15, 2026): This event demonstrates the church's engagement with local civic and law enforcement leadership, connecting faith with community governance and safety.
The Vibrant Cultural Hub: FUMC Lakeland's Concert Series and Events
Beyond its Sunday services, First UMC Lakeland serves as a cultural and arts hub for Central Florida, hosting a renowned Concert Series that draws talent and audiences from across the region. These events are not merely entertainment but are seen as an extension of the church's mission to enrich the community's spiritual and artistic life.
The annual series features a diverse range of musical and artistic performances, including:
- KIC Choir: A dedicated children's choir that performs regularly.
- Gospel Gathering: Events focused on uplifting and traditional gospel music.
- Central Florida Chamber Players: Showcasing high-caliber classical and chamber music.
- Jazz Room & Valentine's Dance: A popular social event combining music and community fellowship.
- Dinner Theatre and Silent Auction: An annual event that combines arts, fundraising, and fellowship.
In addition to the Concert Series, the church hosts regular programming designed for spiritual growth and fellowship. The Midweek Programming offers opportunities for deeper study and connection, while seasonal events like the Adult Advent Study, led by Pastor Andy, provide focused theological discussion during key times of the year, with the latest study scheduled for December 2025.
FUMC Lakeland continues to be a safe place for the community to explore their faith, grow in discipleship, and actively participate in the transformation of the world around them.
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