Beginning October 1, the Diocese of Florida will enter into a new season of collaboration and shared ministry as Bishop Doug Scharf and Bishop Justin Holcomb of the Diocese of Central Florida begin serving as Bishops Assisting for the Diocese of Florida. This partnership will continue until the consecration of the new bishop in February 2027, with the Standing Committee of the Diocese of Florida continuing to serve as the Ecclesiastical Authority. Bishop Scharf’s duties will be very part-time and will require very limited travel. Most of the work will be done remotely via Zoom, phone, and email.
The invitation for Bishop Scharf and Bishop Holcomb to serve in this capacity comes with the long-term hope of deepening relationships across the three neighboring dioceses. Together, these dioceses share a common mission: to proclaim the Gospel, nurture thriving congregations, and serve communities in the name of Christ.
As this new chapter unfolds, prayers are invited for Bishop Holcomb, the Diocese of Florida, and all three dioceses as they move forward in hope, seeking God’s guidance for the future.