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epifia Jonathan Winter Haven Pastor Arrested on Lewd Battery and HIV Disclosure Charges — A Christian Call to Prayer
Police in Polk County, Florida, have taken a Winter Haven pastor and hospice chaplain into custody on multiple serious charges, including lewd battery involving a minor and sexual activity without disclosing his HIV status. The allegations have shocked the local community and raised urgent questions about protection, repentance, and the power of prayer.
About the People Involved
The Pastor
The accused is a pastor who serves a congregation in Winter Haven and also works as a chaplain in a hospice setting. He has been a visible spiritual leader in the area, offering sermons, counseling, and end‑of‑life care.
The Victims
The alleged victim is a minor who attended the pastor’s church or hospice program. Details about the child’s identity have not been released to protect privacy.
What Happened
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the pastor was arrested on charges of lewd battery on a minor and sexual activity without informing the partner of his HIV‑positive status. Lewd battery refers to non‑consensual sexual touching that is considered a felony in Florida. The charge of “sex without HIV disclosure” stems from Florida law requiring individuals who know they are HIV‑positive to inform partners before sexual activity.
Recent Developments
The pastor remains in jail awaiting a bail hearing. No plea has been entered, and the investigation is ongoing. Church officials have released a brief statement expressing shock and urging the community to pray for wisdom, justice, and healing.
What Does Lewd Battery Mean?
Lewd battery is a legal term used in Florida to describe sexual contact that is performed without consent and is considered a serious crime. The law classifies it as a felony, reflecting the state’s commitment to protect individuals—especially minors—from sexual exploitation.
What Does HIV Disclosure Mean?
Florida law requires anyone who knows they are HIV‑positive to inform a sexual partner before any sexual activity. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges because nondisclosure puts the partner at risk of infection.
Why We Must Pray
These events touch on deep wounds—betrayal, broken trust, potential health risks, and the spiritual impact on a congregation. Scripture reminds us that God is near the brokenhearted (Psalms 34:18) and that He calls us to intercede for those in distress (1 Timothy 2:1‑2). Prayer is our conduit for seeking God’s justice, mercy, and healing.
We pray for the alleged victim and family, that they may find safety, emotional restoration, and the comfort of God’s love. We pray for the pastor, that if guilt is present, true repentance may arise, and that God’s grace may lead to transformation. We also lift up the law‑enforcement officers and the judicial system, asking for wisdom, integrity, and fairness.
Prayer Points
- Ask God to protect the minor involved and to bring complete emotional and physical healing.
- Pray that the pastor’s heart will be convicted of sin, leading to genuine repentance and a turn toward Christ.
- Seek divine wisdom for investigators, prosecutors, and judges to discern truth and administer justice.
- Lift up the church community, that they may be united in grace, avoid division, and become a beacon of hope.
- Remember those living with HIV, that they may experience compassion, support, and access to proper medical care.
Scripture Reflection
Psalms 34:18 – “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” This verse reminds us that God draws near to those who have suffered betrayal and pain.
Romans 12:19 – “Do not take vengeance… but leave room for God’s wrath.” We trust God’s justice while we pray for restoration.
James 5:16 – “The prayer of a righteous person has great power.” Let us pray earnestly for healing and truth.
Prayer for Salvation in Christ
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, acknowledging that every soul is in need of Your saving grace. If anyone involved—whether the pastor, the victim’s family, or any witness—has not yet placed their trust in Jesus Christ, we ask that You would reveal Yourself in a powerful way. May the Holy Spirit convict, comfort, and draw each heart to the cross, where forgiveness and new life are found. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.