St. Petersburg, Florida, February 6, 2026
In St. Petersburg, churches and faith communities have initiated a daily bell tolling as part of the ‘For Whom The Bells Toll’ campaign to protest Florida’s death penalty practices. Starting from early February 2026, this initiative is set to expand to various cities and aims to raise awareness about the ethical implications of capital punishment. The campaign highlights Florida’s alarming trend of executions while fostering community dialogue on this critical issue.
Faith Groups in St. Petersburg Rally Against Executions with Daily Bell Tolling
Community Response to Florida’s Death Penalty Practices
St. Petersburg, Florida – Churches and faith communities throughout Florida have initiated a daily tolling of bells to protest the state’s executions. This initiative, known as the “For Whom The Bells Toll” campaign, commenced on February 5, 2026, at the Lakewood United Church of Christ in St. Petersburg. The campaign plans to extend to events in Orlando, Jacksonville, Coral Gables, and Winter Park, ultimately culminating in an execution vigil at the Florida State Prison. On execution days, participating groups will toll their bells at 6 p.m.
This significant movement arises in light of Florida’s record number of executions in 2025, when the state executed 19 individuals, the highest figure since 2009. As notable as this figure is, it underscores Florida’s alarming statistic of accounting for 40% of all executions in the U.S. that year, despite an overall nationwide decline in the use of capital punishment.
The Symbolism of the Delaware Bell
The campaign features the Delaware Bell, previously used in protests in Delaware before it abolished the death penalty in 2024. This bell stands as a poignant symbol of opposition to capital punishment as it amplifies the voices of advocates seeking an end to the practice in Florida. The tolling serves not only as a protest but also as a call for reflection and conversation regarding the ethics of capital punishment.
Faith Leaders and Community Engagement
Faith leaders participating in the campaign emphasize that the act of tolling the bells serves as a peaceful protest and a means for people of faith to express their deep concerns about the death penalty. The campaign encapsulates a broader movement where faith-based organizations and community groups are increasingly focused on advocating for its abolition.
Strategies for Advocacy
These advocacy efforts include organizing vigils, conducting educational campaigns, and engaging in legislative lobbying to influence public opinion and policy decisions regarding capital punishment. The faith community’s actions reflect a growing demand for reform that prioritizes moral considerations and individual rights, aligning well with principles of civic engagement and personal initiative.
The Conversation on Capital Punishment
The “For Whom The Bells Toll” campaign represents a broader discourse on the complex relationship Florida shares with the death penalty. As churches and community groups toll their bells, they spark dialogue on the efficacy and morality of executions and encourage citizens and policymakers alike to reconsider their stance on capital punishment.
Key Takeaways
As this campaign progresses, it not only highlights the pressing concerns regarding capital punishment but also showcases the power of community initiative and collaboration among faith-based organizations. Local leaders are working diligently to foster awareness and discussions on the issue, exemplifying how reduced bureaucracy could further enhance the impact of such civic actions.
Encouraging community involvement and support for local events can play a significant role in shaping the future of Jacksonville and beyond. Engaging with these ongoing dialogues encourages a shared responsibility for ethical governance and community welfare.
FAQ
What is the “For Whom The Bells Toll” campaign?
The “For Whom The Bells Toll” campaign is an initiative by churches and faith communities across Florida to toll their bells daily on execution days as a form of protest against the state’s use of capital punishment. The campaign began on February 5, 2026, at the Lakewood United Church of Christ in St. Petersburg and is scheduled to continue with events in other cities, culminating in an execution vigil at the Florida State Prison. On execution days, participating groups toll their bells at 6 p.m.
Why are faith groups protesting executions in Florida?
Faith groups are protesting executions in Florida due to the state’s record number of executions in 2025, with 19 individuals executed, marking the highest number since 2009. These groups argue that capital punishment is a flawed and inhumane practice that does not serve as an effective deterrent to crime. They advocate for the abolition of the death penalty and seek to raise awareness about the moral and ethical considerations surrounding executions.
What is the significance of the Delaware Bell in this campaign?
The Delaware Bell is a symbol of opposition to capital punishment. It was previously used in protests against executions in Delaware before the state abolished the death penalty in 2024. In Florida, the bell is being utilized in the “For Whom The Bells Toll” campaign to amplify the message of those advocating for the end of the death penalty and to serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing debate over capital punishment in the state.
Key Features of the “For Whom The Bells Toll” Campaign
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Initiation Date | February 5, 2026 |
| Location of First Event | Lakewood United Church of Christ, St. Petersburg, Florida |
| Participating Cities | St. Petersburg, Orlando, Jacksonville, Coral Gables, Winter Park |
| Execution Vigil Location | Florida State Prison |
| Bell Tolling Time | 6 p.m. on execution days |
| Symbol Used | Delaware Bell |
| Purpose | Protest against Florida’s use of capital punishment |
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