Our History
New Life Community United Methodist Church
New Life Community United Methodist Church was started by Rev. Candace Lewis in June of 1997 with seven persons in leased shopping space in Jacksonville, Florida.
Through spirited-filled worship and anointed preaching, God blessed the church. In 2005, Pastor Lewis and the church leadership determined that New Life should search for a permanent home. We launched a financial campaign, “Time to Move”, which was very successful and allowed us to leave the shopping center space in 2006 and relocate to our current 6 acre site at 11100 Wingate Road in Jacksonville, Florida. Our current location includes a sanctuary, youth building, office space, classrooms, fellowship hall, and room for future growth and expansion.
In July, 2009, Rev. Jeffrey Y. Oglesby, with unique spiritual gifts, was appointed to New Life Community Church. Under his leadership, New Life focused on praise and prayer as we also wrestled with tough economic times. In February 2011, Rev. Oglesby unexpectedly went home to be with the Lord.
In June of 2011, Rev. LaRonda D. Barnes was appointed as Pastor to lead the congregation of New Life Community United Methodist Church. Rev. Barnes continued to work on significant economic issues that were plaguing our church.
In June 2012, Lamont A. Hogans was appointed to serve as New Life’s pastor. Pastor Hogans is committed to a contemporary focus for New Life’s worship experience and to the revitalization of New Life ministry. In January 2013, Pastor Hogans shared the vision and mission and core values that God has given him for our church. We are excited about the direction God has for our church.