In 1928 a Unity study group blossomed in Tampa. It was a time of great change. Women gained the right to vote. Automobiles and trains connected people. This progressive era ignited a spiritual flame. The Unity Church of Today in Tampa was born. It began as a small study group led by Ruby Miller and three other women. They met in the Lafayette Street Arcade building. This building stands on what is now Kennedy Boulevard. Ruby Miller a woman with an unwavering faith in the power of prayer had moved to Tampa from Pennsylvania. She had been drawn to the New Thought movement and the teachings of Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. The Unity Church of Today’s roots were firmly planted in this movement which emphasized the power of prayer and the Christ Spirit Within.
This small group quickly grew. It moved to the ballroom of the DeSoto Hotel. Ocoa Moore Laura Hyer and Louise Ramey were ministers. Ruby Wagner as she became after marriage was a licensed Unity teacher. The group continued to expand. Services were held in the Tampa Women’s Club. Ruby Wagner had a vision a permanent home for the growing congregation.
Ruby Wagner a powerful speaker raised funds. She emphasized healing and prosperity. Hundreds came to hear her preach. In 1947 the First Unity Society incorporated as a non-profit. In 1948 the Unity Temple was completed. It was near the University of Tampa. Under Ruby Wagner’s leadership the church flourished. Her husband Karl Wagner served as Choir Director. He was later ordained Associate Minister. The church expanded adding a choir room Sunday School rooms a kitchen nursery and library. A Youth of Unity group started in 1950. It became affiliated with the International YOU in 1951. The YOU group left its handprints on the wall a lasting testament to its members.
A fire on New Year’s Eve 1981 caused significant damage. The University of Tampa offered its McKay Auditorium for services. The congregation decided to rebuild. It found a new location on Horatio Street. The First Unity Society reincorporated as Tampa Unity. It adopted modern accounting practices. Ross Goodman became the minister in 1972. He served for over two decades. Joan his wife dedicated herself to youth education. The Unity Church of Today thrived under their leadership.
The church continued to grow and expand. Allen and Debbie Moss served as co-ministers. They focused on community involvement. They updated technology and added a tower. Nancy Mercurio and Jeffrey King current leaders continue to guide the Unity Church of Today. Their dedication ensures that the spiritual flame continues to burn bright. The Unity Church of Today in Tampa is more than a building. It’s a spiritual home a place of acceptance and growth. It stands as a testament to the power of faith community and perseverance. The Unity Church of Today welcomes all regardless of background. This church continues to inspire personal transformation. It truly embodies the vision of its founders a spiritual center for all.