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TALLAHASSEE – North Florida leaders from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints made the rounds at the Florida State Capitol April 8-9 as part of the Church’s Legislative Days.
Pensacola Stake President Jacob Smith and Tallahassee Stake President Ben Smith joined Communications Council members Gail Pannell (Jacksonville) and Tichaona Matewa (Tallahassee) in visiting members of both the Florida Senate and House of Representatives.
The delegation aimed to forge strong connections with legislators to ensure mutual support for community initiatives. Conversations centered on the diverse programs the Church offers to foster self-reliance and support local populations.
Tallahassee Stake President Ben Smith offered the invocation at Wednesday’s Senate session.
The LDS contingent held meetings with Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez, as well as several other legislators, during the two-day visit.
During the visits, the Church leaders emphasized the resources the Church offers to assist communities across the state.
“We want our elected officials to know that the Church stands ready to assist our communities to help people to build self-reliance through food resources, housing and many other areas,” said President Jacob Smith.
Tallahassee Stake President Ben Smith echoed those sentiments.
“We are here at the Capitol to build relationships with our elected leaders as we strive to help individuals and families be self-reliant. We strive to help in times of need and have programs to assist people with education, language opportunities, food, clothing, and shelter. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to make important connections,” said President Ben Smith.
Legislators responded positively, pledging to work with the Church to address community needs.
Last year, the Church provided $1.4 billion in humanitarian assistance, 6.6 million volunteer hours, and contributed 3,836 humanitarian projects in 192 countries and territories across the globe.
Links to sound bites:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7sasO2ks2Y
https://www.facebook.com/reel/647914021278219
