The Office of the General Bishop has released an official statement regarding recent matters involving St. James United American Freewill Baptist Church of Winter Haven, Florida.

While we stand in prayerful solidarity with the St. James Church family and pray for God's grace, wisdom, peace, and divine will throughout every process, we wish to clarify that St. James United American Freewill Baptist Church is not affiliated with or under the ecclesiastical authority or jurisdiction of the United American Freewill Baptist Conference, Inc.

Accordingly, the Conference will not provide commentary, guidance, legal interpretation, or further assistance regarding this matter.

We respectfully ask our clergy, leaders, members, and friends to continue covering the St. James Church family in prayer while allowing the appropriate processes to proceed with integrity and without speculation.

Please see the official press release below.

"Pray without ceasing." — 1 Thessalonians 5:17