About Us
Nurturing Families, Loving Generously, Extending Grace
Our Story
At OCUMC, we are committed to reaching out to those around us who have not yet experienced the transforming love of God available through Jesus.
We believe every person is uniquely gifted by God and called to serve with purpose and passion. Following the example of Jesus, we serve within our church, throughout our community, and beyond—engaging in ministries of justice, compassion, and care. Through spiritual practices such as worship, prayer, Bible study, and acts of service, we draw closer to God. As we open ourselves to God’s love, we discover that same love naturally flowing through us into the lives of others.
Our Ministries
Sunday services
Join us on Sundays for uplifting worship, meaningful teaching, and a welcoming community for all ages.
Adult Ministries
Grow in faith and community through small groups, Bible studies, service opportunities, and special events.
Kids Ministries
Fun, safe, and faith-filled programs designed to help kids learn about God’s love and grow spiritually.
Community Service
Utilize your gifts to serve others and make a positive impact in our church and local community.
What We Believe as a Church
At OCUMC, we take our commitment to the gospel and all of God’s children seriously. Rooted in Wesleyan tradition, our faith calls us to live with open hearts, open minds, and open doors.
We believe the gospel is good news for everyone, and that means creating a truly inclusive, welcoming community where all are invited to belong, grow, and serve.
Guided by love, grace, and a deep sense of purpose, we strive to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world around us.
Our Church History
Located on the corner of Thorpe and East University, Orange City United Methodist Church has been a part of the Orange City community for over 140 years. The church is founded on a history of service and witness, with our eyes set on the continued growth of God’s Kingdom here in Central Florida.
Founded in 1877, Orange City UMC began as a church of the St. John’s River Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In March 1880, it was decided that a church building was needed, and one was erected in 1881. From 1918 until 1923, Rev. Lawrence Radcliffe held services in Orange City on Sunday afternoon while serving as pastor of First UMC in Deland.
In 1924, Rev. Ray Pierson was appointed to Orange City, and by the following year, the congregation “had completely overwhelmed the little building.” A new sanctuary was dedicated in 1926. The church grew for a number of years, becoming a part of the Lake Helen–Orange City circuit. In 1955, a fellowship hall was completed that serves as the Youth Building today. In 1966, the first full-time pastor was appointed. A new Sanctuary was completed in 1976, and a new Fellowship Hall was built soon after. In 1998, a new Education Building was completed, which also houses the church offices.
Today, we continue to strive to grow in spirit and service as OCUMC embodies Jesus’ transforming love – serving the community with open hearts, enriching families spiritually, and generously extending unconditional grace to all.
Meet the OCUMC Staff
Rev. Ryan DeLaune, Pastor
Pastor Ryan grew up in Pensacola, Florida, and earned his B.A. in Religion from Birmingham-Southern College before completing his Master of Divinity at Candler School of Theology. He has served in ministry since his college years, beginning in youth ministry and later serving in college, campus, and local church settings across Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. Ordained in 2019, Ryan has served appointments at Grace UMC in Gainesville, the University of Florida Wesley Foundation, Florida Atlantic University, and now in the Orlando area.
Ryan is married to Rev. Rachel DeLaune, pastor at First UMC Winter Park, and together they are raising three children—Emmaline, Charlie, and Ellie. An exercise enthusiast, Ryan finds Sabbath in movement, whether mountain biking, racing, or training for triathlons. As a family, the DeLaunes love exploring the outdoors and discovering the wonders of creation together.
Hannah Ripert, Music
Hannah Sun Ripert has directed music at Orange City United Methodist Church since Advent of 2023, leading the choir, worship team, and congregation into meaningful worship from the piano.
An award-winning, Juilliard-trained pianist, Ripert has performed throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia, performing solo and chamber music recitals as well as concertos with orchestra. She has collaborated with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, the Orlando Contemporary Chamber Orchestra, and Ensemble.
Ripert is currently a faculty member at Stetson University and teaches piano privately. Devoted to serving the community, Ripert has led outreach workshops in K-12, health care, and incarcerated communities throughout the United States. She is also a pastoral care volunteer at AdventHealth hospital and is pursuing her Master of Divinity degree at Candler School of Theology at Emory University with an interest in hospital chaplaincy.
Myriam Valderrama, Business
Myriam Valderrama is the Business Administrator at the church, overseeing all financial operations and office administration. She holds a BBA in Accounting from the Inter American University and an MBA in Human Resources Management from the University of Phoenix.
Her professional background of over 20 years includes experience in accounting, marketing, human resources, management, and tax preparation. Beyond her professional skills, she is passionate about organizing special events, empowering youth, fostering leadership development, and advocating for strong family values.
Don Parmalee, Maintenance
Don is the church handyman. Before his time at OCUMC, Don was an electronics engineer and professional musician who owned and piloted a Cessna 172 airplane. After his retirement, in search of a way to stay active and put his skills to use, Don took a job working for our church community.
He enjoys the variety of his work with the church, ensuring the facilities are a safe a welcoming place for people to gather and worship.
When he’s not working, Don enjoys boating and flying radio control helicopters.
A Letter from our Pastor
Dear Friend,
Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve taken a moment to learn more about our church family here at Orange City United Methodist Church. Whether you’ve lived in our community for years or you’re new to the area, I want you to know there’s a place for you here.
At OCUMC, we like to say we’re a small but mighty congregation—big in heart, strong in faith, and deeply committed to serving our neighbors in Orange City and beyond. We do so by nurturing families, loving generously, and extending grace to all.
We share in a rich tradition of faith that welcomes everyone. We believe in God’s grace that goes before us, and our responsibility to extend that grace to our neighbors. That means we’re passionate about service—feeding the hungry, supporting local families, and reaching out with love where it’s needed most.
If you’re searching for a church that feels like home, where your faith can grow and your gifts can make a difference, we’d love for you to join us. Whether you come for worship on Sunday, a community event, or one of our small groups, you’ll be met with genuine warmth and welcome.
I invite you to come as you are, bring your questions, your hopes, and your heart. Together, we’ll worship, serve, and grow in God’s love.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Ryan
Pastor Ryan DeLaune
Contact Us
OFFICE HOURS
Mon-Fri 8:30 - 1:30
