Central Church of Christ, Clearwater, Florida

Florida School of Preaching
The Florida School of Preaching was established in September 1969 to train preachers in the Bible and its proclamation, and has been grounding students in the solid foundation of the Bible for 35 years. We have strongly supported this school from its inception for the great work it does in equipping men to “preach the word”. Over the years, students have come from various parts of the USA, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Liberia, Scotland, St. Martin, and Zambia. Many alumni now serve as full-time evangelists, elders, Bible class teachers and song leaders here and abroad. Some are involved with unique mission efforts such as Internet ministries. The school was one of the first to realize the power of the computer and the World Wide Web, incorporating a computer lab and classes into their training schedule in 1993. This training has made their graduates more effective in delivering the gospel, and unlocked a world of resources for all aspects of Bible study. Another unique aspect of the school is that it is totally supported by funding from faithful congregations and individuals, and charges no tuition to students. Satellite evening classes have been added throughout Florida and into Georgia. Central used to host such a class.

In 1987 Jackie Stearsman left his preaching position at Central, and assumed the Director’s role at the school. The school has grown under his leadership, and that of the Assistant Director, Brian Kenyon. A Board of Directors consisting of local congregation leaders, and chaired by Gordon Methvin, a faithful elder at Central for 34 years, oversees it. Their work also includes a yearly lectureship and book publication, addressing critical Bible topics. This lectureship is broadcast around the world via the Internet. In 2009 Jackie Stearsman has decided to turn over the reigns as director to Brian Kenyon and we know that much good will come out of such leadership.

FSOP Student Support
We are committed to supporting any Central member who makes the decision to attend the Florida School of Preaching as a full-time student. Over the years we have had many young men attend and complete the course of studies. Upon his graduation at FSOP, Justin Gerhardt continued his education at Freed Hardeman University, and preached in New York, but is now preaching in Henderson, Tennessee at the Henderson church of Christ. Ryan Roark also graduated and preached full time for the West Fayetteville church of Christ in Tennessee, and since January 2007, he is in Mechanicsville, VA at the Cold Harbor Road church of Christ. These young men are shining examples of the Florida School of Preaching experience, and the power of God’s Word in transforming lives.