- Memorial Fernandina
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Memorial United Methodist Church announces a pastoral transition as part of the United Methodist Church’s longstanding system of itineracy, in which pastors are appointed to serve congregations for a season before being called to new ministries.
After eight years of faithful service, Rev. Dr. Mark Charles, known as “Pastor Charlie”, will conclude his appointment at the end of June. As the longest-serving senior pastor in the church’s 204-year history, he led Memorial through significant growth, expanded mission partnerships, the renovation of Maxwell Hall, and a deepened focus on teaching, community outreach, and social justice.
“Pastor Charlie has been such a pleasure to work with,” said Monica Pomery, recently retired office manager. “He is not only a strong leader but also a good friend. We are a better church because of him.”
Rev. Dr. Charles also strengthened ecumenical partnerships across the community, helping organize prayer vigils in response to global and local crises, including the war in Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Paul Lore, Co-director of Cross the Line Foundation recently said of Rev. Dr. Charles, “What I enjoy most about Pastor Charlie is his presence of action. It is gentle, quiet, and powerfully meaningful. He’s a man that will remain in my heart forever.”
Former Fernandina Beach Mayor Robin Lentz shared, “Memorial truly lives out what it means to help ‘love show up.’ Pastor Charlie has been there for our neighbors when it mattered most, and his faithful leadership has made our community stronger.”
The United Methodist Church’s practice of itineracy fosters shared mission, fresh perspectives, and a deep sense of connection across the denomination. Beginning July 1, Bishop Tom Berlin and the Florida Conference Cabinet have appointed Rev. Angie Long as Memorial’s next senior pastor. An ordained elder, Pastor Angie holds a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University and a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University of Montgomery. A certified public accountant, she most recently served as Treasurer and Director of Administrative Services for the Alabama-West Florida Conference and has prior experience serving as the pastor of local United Methodist Churches in Alabama.
“We are deeply grateful for Pastor Charlie’s ministry and the strength he has brought to our congregation,” said Laurie Kitson-Bowers, chair of the Staff/Pastor-Parish Relations Committee. “We look forward to welcoming Pastor Angie and continuing our shared ministry within the United Methodist connection and alongside our community.”
A farewell potluck celebration for Pastor Charlie was held June 7th. He will preach his final sermon at Memorial on June 14th.
Rev. Dr. Brett Opalinski, a former Memorial pastor, will preach June 21st during the transition alongside his daughter, Rev. Anna Brook Opaliniski. Pastor Angie will deliver her first sermon at Memorial on July 5th.
Pastor Angie will be the 67th senior pastor in the church’s history and its third female senior pastor. She will serve alongside Associate Pastor Rev. Rachel Williams, continuing Memorial’s commitment of helping Christ’s love show up in the church, community, and world.
