Better Together: Partnership with Florida Baptist Convention

By Rick Williams, SCBO Central Ohio Region catalyst

One of the highlights of my year has undoubtedly been the partnership with the Florida Baptist Convention (FBC). Earlier this year, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Patrick Coats in Jacksonville, Florida. As the East Region Catalyst for FBC, Patrick and I met with several associational missionary strategists and pastors to explore potential collaboration. It quickly became clear to me that God is actively at work through the various associations in Florida’s East Region.

During my discussions with three of the Associational Mission Strategists—Bob Bumgarner, Chris Reinolds, and Glenn Rodgers—I was deeply encouraged by their strategic vision, missional priorities, and prayerful focus. One of our meetings was particularly powerful, as we gathered in prayer, seeking God’s leadership and direction for our partnership. Glenn Rogers aptly stated, “This can be a great opportunity for us to reach souls both there and here.” Chris Reinolds added, “It’s all about supporting each other and making the kingdom stronger.”

“It’s all about supporting each other and making the kingdom stronger.”

Attending the Florida Baptist Convention’s Challenge 2025 was another source of encouragement for me. I witnessed first-hand the evangelistic fervor of FBC! As I traveled back to Ohio, my excitement for collaborating with pastors and leaders in the East Region grew. It was abundantly clear that God was moving within this partnership.

On May 13-14, Patrick traveled to Columbus with a group of Florida pastors eager to engage in ministry and mission work alongside us. We organized a dinner at Violet Baptist Church on May 13, providing a space for Ohio and Florida pastors to connect. The chemistry and collaboration that unfolded that night were remarkable, as meaningful conversations and connections flourished through shared prayers and planning.

The following day, we gathered at Living Hope Church, Columbus, where Pastor Aaron Taylor facilitated a meeting for Central Ohio Send Network church planters to share their visions with the Florida pastors and leaders. The opportunity for one-on-one discussions allowed for the exchange of ideas and potential next steps. 

As Pastor Aaron spoke about the Finding Hope Center, which provides essential furniture for financially struggling families, the Florida pastors were genuinely moved. One Florida pastor led us in a heartfelt prayer, asking God to do an even greater work in and through us. It was a powerful moment where we felt God’s presence in a profound way.

Before returning to Florida, we took our guests on a tour of the OSU football stadium. We enjoyed lively conversations about the Buckeyes and various Florida teams, creating bonds of camaraderie. The two days we spent together were incredibly meaningful, laying the groundwork for future partnership.

We are truly Better Together!

Looking ahead, Patrick and I have tentatively planned for a group of Ohio pastors to travel to Florida in late January 2025. This will be a wonderful opportunity for Central Ohio pastors to explore mission and ministry possibilities with their Florida counterparts.

I am immensely grateful for Patrick Coats’ leadership. He is a true champion of collaboration and partnership, and his humility and willingness to serve are a blessing to us here in Central Ohio. I feel privileged to be on this journey alongside him, and with the churches in both Central Ohio and Florida’s East Region.

God is always at work around us. Let’s join Him in fulfilling the Great Commission.

We are truly Better Together!