The History of Tomoka UMC
Tomoka United Methodist Church was established in 1979, the daughter congregation of First United Methodist Church of Ormond Beach, to be the United Methodist presence on the mainland of Ormond Beach. A saintly elderly member of First Church, Mrs. Sadie Bleekman, literally had a vision that God was calling First Church to plant this new congregation. Thanks to her vision and persistence, First Church and the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church worked to make Tomoka a reality.
Since it's official start in April 1979, Tomoka has become a vibrant and joyful congregation, serving the western side of Ormond Beach. In the earliest days, the congregation worshipped in the cafeteria of Tomoka Elementary School.
Benefactors, Mr. and Mrs. A.P. Henderson, donated the land bordering Granada, and the first phase of construction was completed; A multi-use building that was named “Bleekman Hall” in honor of Sadie Bleekman. During those years, the congregation blossomed, with youth and children's ministries, Sunday school for all ages, United Methodist Women and United Methodist Men being established. A preschool which later transitioned into an after-school program, and now “Great Kids,” was also formed.
In 1993, the congregation moved into the beautiful new sanctuary we continue to enjoy. The education wing interior was left unfinished, and was later completed by church members.
Over the years, we have been blessed by a number of excellent pastors who have led the congregation well. Our current pastor, John Gill, was appointed to serve Tomoka, July 1, 2021. He actually has returned to this appointment, having previously served Tomoka from 2002-2011.
Like all congregations, 2020 was an especially challenging year, as public worship and meetings had to be suspended and transition to “virtual” worship and gatherings.
Thankfully, we are now gradually returning to “normal,” and look forward to taking advantage of this pause to evaluate where we are as a congregation, and make creative adjustments to our ministries so that the years ahead will be as vibrant as our past.
Yes, Tomoka United Methodist Church has a rich history, but also a bright future, as we strive to live out God's vision for us; to be a visible and active presence of Christ in our community.
We hope you will join us on this journey of faith!