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Baptist University of Florida

Stay informed with stories, news, and updates from churches across our association and throughout the state. Here you’ll find stories, events, and resources that celebrate ministry work and keep our church community connected.

Baptist University of Florida Celebrates Historic December 2025 Graduation

GRACEVILLE, FL —December 2025 — Baptist University of Florida (BUF), founded in 1943 and located in Graceville, Florida, celebrated a landmark achievement this week by conferring degrees on the largest […]
December 9, 2025
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‘Gospel presence’ Mark Rathel retires after 50+ years of ministry

After more than 50 years serving the Lord as a pastor and 25 years as a professor at the Baptist University of Florida, Mark Rathel is retiring to enjoy the beach life and spend time with his family.
May 22, 2025
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Clayton Cloer calls Florida Baptists to a ‘mindset of a holy people’

Clayton Cloer, president of the Baptist University of Florida, addressed the 2024 annual gathering of Florida Baptists with a call for unity and holiness within the church in a message titled “The Mindset of a Holy People,” based on 1 Corinthians 3:16-17.
November 12, 2024
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Thomas Kinchen, president emeritus of Baptist University of Florida, dies

Thomas A. Kinchen, president emeritus of the Baptist University of Florida (formerly Baptist College of Florida), died Thursday, Jan. 11, of pancreatic cancer. He retired from the school in December 2022 after 32 years as its president.
January 16, 2024
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Florida Baptists approve 2024 budget, name change for The Baptist College…

With the theme, Manifest: Kingdom Clarity Amidst Cultural Chaos, Florida Baptists gathered for the 161st annual meeting at Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz to celebrate God’s work throughout the Sunshine State.
November 14, 2023
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