St. Paul AME Church Leader Holds Press Conference on Vandalism Following Fire

The Rev. Dr. Sha’Leda Mirra, pastor of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Ocala, announced a press conference on May 20, 2026, to address acts of vandalism following a fire that damaged the church on May 16. Church officials reported that individuals unlawfully entered the building and left racial slurs and threatening language inside and outside the premises. The incident occurred during an ongoing investigation by Ocala Fire Rescue.

Mirra and church leadership informed Episcopal leadership and the Ocala Police Department about the vandalism. The FBI was also notified of the incident. During the press conference, Mirra expressed deep sorrow over the fire and the subsequent acts of hate, emphasizing the church’s commitment to standing against racism, sexism, and violence.

The press conference, live-streamed on social media, featured several religious leaders from the community. Mirra spoke with a heavy heart, acknowledging the emotional toll of the fire and the vandalism. She described the situation as a “moral outrage” and vowed that the church would rebuild and continue to be a welcoming place for all.

“We are resilient,” Mirra said. “St. Paul is a living testimony that has endured through generations. We will rebuild. We will rise. We will continue to be a place where all are welcome, all are loved and all can encounter the presence of God.”

The church’s response reflects a broader commitment to justice and community, echoing Micah 6:8, which calls for people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. The incident underscores the challenges faced by historically Black denominations in protecting their sacred spaces and upholding their mission of service and faith.

Source: Read the original report