MEETING PEOPLE WHERE THEY ARE

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ABOUT US

ROOTED IN FAITH, DRIVEN BY PURPOSE

At Refuge Church Sorrento, our mission is to meet people where they are with purpose, power, praise, and prayer. Guided by faith and a commitment to serve, we strive to share God’s love, foster spiritual growth, and build a community where everyone feels valued and embraced. Together, we honor our rich legacy while pursuing a vision of hope and elevation for generations to come.

OUR HISTORY

HONORING OUR LEGACY: A HISTORY OF FAITH, LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY

FLORIDA DIOCESE

A HISTORICAL CHRONICLE OF PRODUCTION & FRUIT BEARING

Empowering churches and communities across Florida to grow in faith, unity, and service while honoring our rich legacy and advancing the Kingdom of God.

The Florida Diocese of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith (COOLJC) has a rich and enduring history rooted in faith and perseverance. Known as the "Father of Florida," Elder Toby James Crosby laid the foundation for the diocese after receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost in 1898. As an evangelist, he traveled across states before settling in Lakeland, Florida, around 1912, where the first church of the Florida Diocese was organized. Under his leadership, and through challenges like the Great Depression, the diocese flourished, building churches such as "The Lily of the Valley" in Palatka and "Full Gospel" in Sanford. Elder Crosby's dedication and vision continue to inspire generations, as his legacy remains the cornerstone of the diocese’s spiritual growth and impact.

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CHURCH BUILDING

A LEGACY BUILT ON FAITH AND COMMUNITY

From Humble Beginnings to a Brick Church: The Faithful Journey of Refuge Church Sorrento

In 1936, Deacon Eli and Mother Lottie Thomas, two faithful “Ambassadors of Christ,” began evangelizing the logging community of Sorrento, planting the seeds for what would become Refuge Church Sorrento. Joined by Mother Fannie Gillard and Sister Sophia Murphy, the church held its first meetings in a humble “Bush Harbor,” where logs were pulled from the lake. By the early 1940s, Deacon Thomas invited Elder Samuel Green of Sanford to serve as the first pastor, naming the church “Full Gospel Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ.” Through the generosity of Deacon and Mother Thomas, land was donated, and in 1945, the church’s first brick building was completed under the leadership of Elder Green. This historic foundation continues to inspire generations as a testament to faith, perseverance, and God’s glory.

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PASTORS LEGACY

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND FAITHFUL SERVICE

Honoring the Pastors Who Shepherded Refuge Church Sorrento Through Generations

Refuge Church Sorrento has been blessed with a lineage of devoted pastors whose leadership and faith have guided the church through its rich history. Elder Samuel Green, the first pastor, brought tremendous growth to the congregation, serving simultaneously in Sorrento, Sanford, and Greenville. Following him, Elder Earnest Harrell of Sanford became the 2nd pastor in 1955, remembered for his kindness and steadfast leadership. Elder Ruel B. McCoy from British Honduras succeeded him in 1957 as the 3rd pastor.

In 1983, Elder Cleo J. Jenkins, Sr. of New Smyrna Beach assumed leadership as the 4th pastor, followed by Apostle Gentle Groover, Sr. in May 2010 as the 5th pastor. Later that same year, Bishop M. Ruel McCoy, Sr. became the 6th pastor, and Elder Cleo Jenkins, Jr., Sr. was named the 7th pastor.

In July 2021, Elder Alfonzo Baptiste was appointed the 8th pastor, whose currently continuing the church’s legacy of faith, service, and growth. Each pastor has left an indelible mark, strengthening the foundation of Refuge Church Sorrento and paving the way for future generations.

80+

Oldest Member

Our oldest member, Mother [Name], 85, has been faithfully part of our family since 1945

698+

Meals Served

Extending God’s love through action. Numerous meals served to our community, nourishing both body and spirit.

87+

Convocations Attended

Actively attending Holy Convocations and Conferences to inspire, empower, and unite believers.

72+

Christmas Programs

Spreading joy and hope through Christmas programs celebrating the birth of Christ with our community.

WHAT WE DO

SERVING GOD & COMMUNITY TOGETHER

Worship Services

Experience God’s presence through heartfelt worship, inspiring messages, and a loving community united in faith.

Community Outreach

Serving our neighbors with compassion, providing hope, and making a difference through impactful acts of love and kindness.

Educational Programs

Blending spiritual growth with practical knowledge through Bible studies, guest speakers, and lessons on faith and everyday life.

OUR TEAM

MEET OUR LEADERSHIP

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Bishop Daryl Forehand

Florida East Central Diocese Bishop

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Apostle Dr. M. Ruel McCoy

Regional Apostle (East Central FL)

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Apostle James A. Maye

Presiding Apostle

Sister Evelyn Lockett

Church Secretary/Head of Trustee

PASTOR'S MESSAGE

A VISION FOR GROWTH, PURPOSE, AND LEGACY

Guiding Refuge Church Sorrento into a Future of Faith, Renewal, and Generational Impact

As one of the youngest elders to serve as pastor of Refuge Sorrento, I am humbled to follow in the footsteps of great leaders before me. My vision is to honor our rich history while leading this church into a new season of growth and renewal.

With a commitment to building people of purpose, power, praise, and prayer, it's my mission to advance God’s Kingdom through meaningful worship, prayer, and service. Together, we will strengthen our ministry, renovate and preserve our physical space, embrace modern technology, and raise the next generation of leaders in faith.

Let’s unite in this mission to glorify Christ, magnify His Word, and share His love with our community and beyond.

Elder Alfonzo Baptiste
Current Pastor of Refuge Church Sorrento

OUR CORE VALUE

FOUNDATIONS OF OUR FAITH AND COMMUNITY LIFE

What Do We Believe?

Refuge Church is a proud member of The Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ (COOLJC) of the Apostolic Faith. We believe in one Lord, one Faith, and one Baptism. Ephesians 4:5 We believe that the Holy Bible is the Word of God. It is true. It contains the keys to inheriting eternal life, and it reveals the mystery of our faith. John. 5:39; Deuteronomy 29:29 We believe in the oneness of God, who was the Father in creation, the Son in redemption, and today, He is the Holy Ghost in The Church. I Timothy 3:16 We believe that Jesus is God, for in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form. We proclaim LORD Jesus Christ is the name of God that was given to this generation as the only Name whereby the people of this Grace dispensation of time can be saved. Colossians 2:9; Acts 4:12. We accept God's plan of salvation of baptism by water and spirit. Jesus Christ, who was our perfect example, though sinless, was baptized to fulfill righteousness. John 3:5; Matthew 3:15 We believe that water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is essential for forgiveness of sins, and confirms our belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Acts 2:38; Acts 8:37 We believe that rebirth by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential today as it was in the days of the Apostles. Acts 2:4 We believe that the Word of God must be proclaimed throughout all the world, according to God's commandment. Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15; Romans 10:18 Our Blessed Hope lies in Christ Jesus our LORD who has given us the victory over death and hell. Therefore, standing firm on His promise, we anticipate the second coming of Jesus Christ--that great day of resurrection which shall surely come. On that day, the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then, we which are alive and remain will be changed, and caught up together with them in the air. And so shall we forever be with our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. John 14:3; I Corinthians 15:51-58; I Thessalonians 4:15-17