One of the pillars of our journey together as a faith community is our commitment to social justice. While, many congregations may claim a desire for social justice, here at St. John’s, Social Justice is our first name. While we may be small in number, our desire is big in heart. Virtually, every worship experience highlights the justice side of our Biblical teaching. Many in our congregation frequently participate in local mission opportunities—some share with other congregations in homeless ministries, while others serve on social action boards for immigration or veterans affairs, and others advocate for Human Rights or Women’s issues. Preparing and sharing a Thanksgiving meal to hundreds in the Miami community is the passion for even others. Every year, our congregation actively participates in the Miami Beach Gay Pride, and is a major sponsor of the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival.

Reconciling Ministries Network: As a reconciling congregation, St. John’s welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people as visitors, members, and staff, including its clergy. In 1997, St. John’s became the first United Methodist church in Florida to become a reconciling congregation, linked to the Reconciling Ministries Network of the United Methodist Church. In 2015, when the US Supreme Court ruled that same sex marriage is constitutional, the St. John’s congregation chose to open its Sanctuary for all weddings, believing that “Biblical Obedience” requires us to fully love our neighbor as commanded by Jesus and oppose unjust church law.

Methodist Federation for Social Action: This organization, in existence for over 100 years, mobilizes clergy and laity to take action on issues of peace, poverty and people’s rights within the church, nation and the world. Having both national and Florida spheres of influence, our current pastors are part of the leadership team that directs this social advocacy organization.

Arts at St. John’s: Created in 1999 to provide a link between our arts communities and social justice, ASJ has been a staple in the South Florida Arts scene. Founded by the Rev. Dr. Carol Hoffman-Guzman, ASJ has always striven to effect social change through the arts while empowering local artists.