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Mission Talk

A Resurrection Reflection

Easter is not just the celebration of resurrection—it is the triumph that emerges from deep struggle. Between the cross and the empty tomb lies Holy Saturday, a space where Christ descends into death to break its power from within. In this month’s reflection, we explore how this “in-between” moment speaks to the Church’s call to justice. Like Jesus, we are called to enter the broken places of the world—not with false triumphalism, but with faithful presence. Our work—whether in advocacy, protest, or quiet compassion—is how we participate in God’s hidden work of redemption. The resurrection calls us to live as people of hope, even in the silence

Read the full theological reflection.

Latino Evangelicals Pastors & Leaders were present during two Executions

During the past two executions in Florida, Latino Evangelical pastors & leaders have stood outside the prison grounds for solemn vigils - praying, singing, and lifting our voices as a public witness to the Gospel’s call for mercy and the dignity of human life. 

Read More: A Pastoral Reflection from Pastor Carlos Duran on the Death Penalty

Mission Talk in Christianity Today

We’re honored that Mission Talk was recently featured in Christianity Today! The article highlights the faithful witness of Latino Evangelicals in Florida who are speaking out on immigration and the call to protect the dignity of every person. We’re grateful to be part of a growing movement of leaders grounded in the Gospel and committed to justice.


Read the full article here: Christianity Today – Florida Hispanic Evangelicals Confront Persecution

From Pulpit to Policy: Dr. Mark Vega Leads Transformative Seminar 

On March 20th, Dr. Mark Vega led a powerful and timely seminar titled From Pulpit to Policy: Transforming Evangelical Communities through Pastoral Civic Capacity Building. With wisdom and boldness, Dr. Vega equipped pastors and leaders to bridge the gap between faith and public engagement. We’re grateful for his leadership and the growing movement of civic-minded faith leaders rising across Florida.

Op-Ed Published in the Orlando Sentinel


 We’re honored that our recent Op-Ed, “Executions Bruise Our Collective Psyche—We Should Seek Redemption Instead,” was published in the Orlando Sentinel. This piece, written by Pastor Esteban Rodriguez, reflects on Florida’s use of the death penalty and calls the Church to be a voice for mercy and redemption in a system that often forgets both.


 Read the full article here:
Orlando Sentinel – Executions Bruise Our Collective Psyche

 

We’re excited to launch a new series in May called The Remnant, a space to explore biblical responses to justice issues. 

Our hope is that the Remnant will be a space where faith leaders reflect both spiritually and prophetically on key issues facing our communities. It’s named after the faithful few who, throughout history, have remained steadfast in their witness—even in the face of injustice—because they believed God was not done working through His people.

 

Scheduled Execution

On May 1, 2025, the state of Florida is scheduled to execute Jeffrey Hutchinson, a decorated Gulf War veteran. After serving eight years in the Army, including deployment in the Gulf War, Hutchinson was diagnosed with Gulf War Illness—a condition linked to chronic pain, memory loss, and insomnia. Jeff was sickened in combat by repeated exposure to nerve gas and was turned away from treatment when he got home.  More than 25 years ago, for acts committed while he was still suffering from that untreated illness and trauma, Jeff was sentenced to death. His execution raises concerns about the justice system's ability to adequately consider the profound effects of service-related health conditions on behavior.

Learn more about his story here

Did You Know?

According to a recent study by Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, more than half of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. identify as Christians. That means mass deportation isn't just a political issue—it’s a pastoral crisis.

See link here

April Highlights

International & National Observances:

  • April 7 – World Health Day

  • April 21–27 – National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

  • April 22 – Earth Day

 

 What You Can Do

  • Pray: To mark National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, please join us in praying for those who have been harmed by crime.

  • Act: Join us for a prayer vigil on May 1 at 5:00 pm outside Raiford Prison, in response to the scheduled execution of Jeffrey Hutchinson.

  • Reflect: Read The Remnant and discuss with your church how the Gospel speaks to issues of justice today.

We close with this reminder:

“Mercy triumphs over judgment.” — James 2:13

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Mission Talk, 0000, Clermont, FL 34711, United States

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