JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Oceanway Church Pastor Al Force has been asked by the church’s board to temporarily step away, as questions mount over how the church handled past concerns involving former volunteer John Goodman — concerns that resurfaced after Goodman’s recent arrest in a Marion County child predator sting.
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The church previously told News4JAX that an allegation involving Goodman was reported to the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), though the church did not specify when the report was made. During his Sunday remarks, Force said the incident was brought to the church’s attention roughly six and a half years ago. The church has said the incident did not occur on church property or during a church event, and that Goodman was eventually asked to leave.
Force addressed the congregation Sunday, acknowledging the board’s decision.
“The board has asked me to take a few weeks and just process, and rest, and recoup,” Force said.
Force spoke directly about the earlier incident during his remarks.
“Six and a half years ago, we never dreamed a serious allegation would be brought to us — brought to our attention by family in the church. The concerns were actually reported to the appropriate authorities, and we were shortly informed afterward,” Force said.
Force added that the church acted once it became aware of the situation.
“Once we became aware of the situation, we did take steps within the church. The individual was asked to step down from serving and leave the church,” Force said.
That earlier case was brought back into focus after Goodman was arrested in June in Marion County during a child predator sting.
Goodman faces multiple charges, including using a computer to solicit a parent or guardian for consent to engage in sexual activity with a minor, traveling to meet a minor after using a computer to solicit a guardian, unlawful use of a two-way communications device to facilitate a crime, and evidence tampering. Investigators say he showed up to meet someone he believed was willing to allow him to have sex with a 7-year-old girl — that person turned out to be an undercover detective.
Since News4JAX first began reporting on Goodman’s arrest, former Oceanway youth leaders Luis and Larissa Peña have disputed key parts of the church’s account — specifically the church’s claim that Goodman did not volunteer with youth or children’s ministry. The Peñas told News4JAX that Goodman was regularly present with the youth.
Luis Peña said the pastor’s recent remarks did little to satisfy how the earlier case was handled.
“Where was this energy six and a half years ago? Why are you saying we had to come as a family together now?” Peña said.
After the Peñas first spoke out, News4JAX went back to the church for clarification and provided photos appearing to show Goodman with youth. The church, responding through an attorney, issued an updated statement saying its records do not reflect Goodman serving as a coach, mentor or instructor of students. The church did acknowledge, however, that Goodman attended at least one youth event — describing him as a “caregiving parent.”
Peña said the church’s decision to respond through legal counsel has only deepened his frustration.
“I think he’s actually made it worse by having his attorney speak,” Peña said.
A former pastoral staff member, speaking anonymously to News4JAX, said Goodman was involved with youth at the church. He gave News4Jax a statement that reads,
“John Goodman along with his entire family were involved with both youth and children and adult ministry during my duration on staff at the church. I am always thankful for anytime of reflection in such a serious matter. I think that is the appropriate response for anyone. They should take time to reflect on their response and actions to something of this severity. As being involved with the family that reported the case and issue, I only see it right to respond to the severity of this matter and now hearing that the current pastor is taking time to reflect on this issue bring me reassurance that justice will be served correctly.”
Despite the criticism, Force insisted Sunday that the church’s commitment to its community has not wavered.
“My commitment is to continue leading with transparency, accountability and diligence,” he said.
But Peña said those words ring hollow.
“None of that is actually happening. No transparency. It’s all protection,” Peña said.
News4JAX is continuing to work to learn more about the previous alleged abuse reported to DCF.
We reached back out to Oceanway asking about Pastor Al Force’s announcement to his congregation Sunday; they sent us this statement:
“Thank you for reaching out and for giving the church the opportunity to respond. We want to offer some context around Pastor Al Force’s remarks this past Sunday.
The board asked Pastor Force to take a temporary period of rest and reflection following recent events and the significant demands they have placed on him, his family, and the church. We believe this time gives both Pastor Force and the congregation a chance to pause while the church continues its ministry. It is simply an intentional season for him to rest, focus on his family, and let things settle while the church keeps moving forward.
While Pastor Force is away, his day-to-day pastoral responsibilities have been temporarily delegated to other leaders. The board and Pastor Force have put leadership plans in place so that the church’s ministries continue without interruption. He remains our pastor, and we value his leadership. Even as he steps back from the daily work for a season, he will continue to provide guidance and support as needed while taking this time to care for himself and his family.
Pastor Force is always welcome at Oceanway Church. This is his church family, and there are no restrictions keeping him from being on church property. Any adjustments during this season are meant only to give him the space to rest and focus on his family while staying connected to the community here.
As for timing, the board has asked Pastor Force to take the month of July for rest, family, and personal renewal. We fully expect him to return to his regular pastoral responsibilities after July. This is a temporary season, and we look forward to welcoming him back as he continues to lead and serve our congregation.
Regarding the matter from several years ago, the church took the concerns seriously and responded promptly and in accordance with the church’s understanding of its responsibilities. Above all, the safety and well-being of children remains our highest priority. Oceanway Church continues to maintain and strengthen policies designed to protect children, including volunteer screening, required training, and established reporting procedures. We remain committed to continually reviewing and improving these safeguards.
We appreciate the chance to provide this context and are grateful for the continued support of our church family and community."