A Pledge to Disagree with Dignity
Joel Hunter, a longtime Republican and former spiritual adviser to President Obama, discusses his new book and how to navigate political differences without sacrificing relationships. Click the title to listen!
Dr. Joel Hunter to be honored at the 2026 Emerald Awards
Sanford Herald (10-26-26). Breaking Bread Beyond, Inc., in partnership with Radiantly Black Lifestyle Magazine, is proud to announce a special award to be presented at the third annual EMERALD AWARDS, A Salute to Black Excellence in Seminole County. Dr. Joel Hunter, Pastor of Community Benefit at Action Church, Chairman of the Central Florida Pledge, former Chairman of Central Florida’s Commission on Homelessness, and spiritual advisor to President Barack Obama, will be the first recipient of the Champion of Humanity Award.
Orlando Stands Against Hate
For more than four decades, the Holocaust Center has helped Central Floridians connect the
lessons of the Holocaust to their responsibilities today: recognizing antisemitism and other forms
of prejudice, resisting indifference and standing up for people targeted by hate. That work gives
our community a foundation for turning condemnation into action.
The Central Florida Pledge asks every signer to put those responsibilities into practice…
The Pledge Approach to Faith & Politics
Full page in the Sunday, August 16, 2026 edition of the Orlando Sentinel .
Get your FREE copy of the field guide ! Now available at CentralFloridaPledge.com/Book
Put Your John Hancock Here....
Lake Mary Life Magazine (Vol 24 Issue 4) July. - August
The Central Florida Pledge – a growing network that unites neighbors, leaders, and groups to stand up for a safer, more welcoming community – is making notable inroads in Seminole County. By signing The Pledge, people across all backgrounds commit to treating others with dignity, uniting against hate, and stepping up when needed – building a region where everyone feels they belong.
Raising Lifelong Believers: Helping Kids Keep the Faith
FOX 35 Orlando - 6/1/26
(CLICK POST TITLE TO WATCH THE INTERVIEW)
A recent study reveals that Gen Z is holding fast to their religious values into adulthood. To explore what this means, we sat down with local pastor Dr. Joel Hunter. He shares how new parents can build a faith foundation at home.
Obama Presidential Center Opens Its Doors - draws thousands to historic celebration of hope, legacy and community
(CLICK POST TITLE TO WATCH THE INVOCATION)
Pastor Joel Hunter delivered the invocation at the Grand Opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on Thursday, June 18. He co-led the opening prayer alongside Joshua DuBois, reflecting on the historical significance of the library's opening and offering a message of hope and civic reconciliation.
State of the County -Reflecting Back, Looking Forward
Dr. Joel C. Hunter was honored to offer the Invocation for the State of the County annual address delivered by the Mayor of Orange County…
Orlando’s Civility Pledge Should Inspire Us All
The Hill - May 29, 2026
In early 2024, Hunter and the Ginsburg Family Foundation invited 150 civic and community leaders to devise a way forward. Their Central Florida Pledge aimed to help build “America’s most welcoming community” and keep “Central Florida a safe community for all who live here and for future generations.” It read as follows:
“I will lead by example—treating all people with dignity and respect, especially those with whom I disagree.
“I will refrain from inflammatory words and actions, and actively support those being attacked.
“I will report threatening incidents of hate and violence to 800-423-TIPS (8477).
“I will educate myself about all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism, homophobia, Islamophobia, racism, and help others in my circle of influence to do the same.”
Easter Sunrise Service at Sea World
This year’s Easter Sunrise Service at Bayside Stadium at SeaWorld Orlando was a great celebration of our risen Savior, Jesus Christ! Worship with Jeremy Rosado and a powerful message from Dr. Joel C. Hunter made this Easter Sunrise Service truly special. There’s nothing like watching thousands come together in one place to celebrate the Resurrection!
