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Dear San Marco Church Family: I remember June 12, 2016 clearly. It was a Sunday morning, and I was getting ready for church services at Grace United Methodist Church in Merritt Island, where I served as the senior pastor. I just happened to turn on the news that Sunday morning, which was somewhat unusual for me. Typically, because I had to preach three services on Sundays, I would not even look at the news until the afternoon. What I saw on the news left me stunned. I cannot remember whether they announced the number of innocent people who were killed, but I remember feeling deep shock and grief over the tragedy. The Pulse nightclub shooting was the largest mass shooting since 9/11, with 49 victims (plus the shooter) killed, and at least 50 others injured. Since then, I have realized more clearly that members of the LGBTQ+ community often feel fear and rejection in a variety of settings. I had been blind to their struggles, and I continue to realize how much suffering goes unnoticed and unacknowledged. My prayer for our San Marco church community is that we will continue to be a safe place for ALL God’s children to worship and to sense the Grace of God in every interaction. The lives lost at the Pulse shooting included 38 men and 11 women, ranging in age from 18 to 50. The average age of the victims was 29. Think about the parents, siblings, spouses and family and friends of these young people! The sense of loss and devastation will never completely disappear. As we reflect upon the tragedy, we may feel helpless. However, there are many ways that we can keep the memory of the victims alive. Today, June 12, 2026, there will be a gathering to remember the 49 beautiful lives lost and to honor the survivors. The event is scheduled for 6pm at Willow Branch Park, 2870 Sydney Street. I encourage you to attend if you are able. Sometimes just showing up to show our support is the best Christian witness. I am looking forward to worship this Sunday, June 14. I will be sharing a message based upon Exodus 19: 1-9. My message is entitled “Promises, Promises……”. Friends, please pray each week that our worship and time together brings glory and honor to God and that those who attend worship experience the freedom that comes from the Holy Spirit. Remember our United Methodist core tenets are to “love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.” We all need God’s help to live into these tenets on a daily basis. I look forward to seeing you and serving you communion this Sunday! Every Sunday is a great Sunday to invite a friend to worship! Steve Hart
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