JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- In just a few months, a predominately African-American Church in Jacksonville will take over a mainly white church in Orange Park. Pastors of both churches say it's the first time they've heard of such a merger.
"We're excited about what the Lord is doing and the opportunity he's provided for us," said Michael Clifford, Pastor of Ridgewood Baptist Church in Orange Park.
Earlier this year, Clifford said financial obligations were becoming such a concern, he was worried about losing the property. He says merging was one of the only ways out.
"Shiloh was the answer to our prayers," he said.
Clifford met with the pastor of Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church in Jacksonville. Within months, an agreement was made. When the merger is complete in January, there will be more than 8000 combined members of both churches. Shiloh's pastor, H.B Charles Junior says he hopes the pairing sends a strong message when it comes to race.
"I hope this is the beginning of new relationships being established outside of church...all across the city there may be greater harmony, diversity, and unity," he said.
Pastor Clifford says this merger is a chance to be a positive role model across the First Coast.
"We're hoping that we can set an example by doing this," he said.
