Languages | Education | Training | Ministry History | Questions

LANGUAGES

Spanish, English

EDUCATION

School

Degree

End (mm/yy)

Asbury Theological Seminary

Master of Divinity

05/06

TRAINING

Course

End (mm/yy)

Narrow Gate/Comission Institute

05/26

South Georgia GMC Presiding Elder/Retreat/Training

02/25

Paul and his letter to the Galatians

10/21

Intercultural Development Inventory v.3

09/18

Pastor-Peer Network

06/11

Coaching Network

08/09

El Lider Plus

06/01

Georgia Pastor's School

07/22

Georgia Pastor's School

07/19

CERTIFICATIONS

Certification

End (mm/yy)

NA

NA

MINISTRY HISTORY

Church/Organization

Position

Begin (mm/yy)

Trinity Methodist Church

Pastor

07/23

South Georgia Conference

Connectional Community Presiding Elder

07/23

Waynesboro FUMC

Pastor

06/19

Lake Park UMC

Senior Pastor

11/15

Tyson Memorial UMC

Pastor (this was concurrently with Lake Park UMC)

06/10

Lake Park UMC

Pastor Hispanic/Associate Pastor English

06/04

New Church Plant

Pastor

08/02

MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS

Over the past 24 years, I have established and facilitated the growth of two Hispanic churches in South Georgia, achieving both spiritual and numerical development. Since 2004, I have served in cross-cultural appointments, providing leadership to congregations in both English and Spanish. At Lake Park UMC, in addition to leading the Spanish-speaking congregation, I guided the church through a significant theological conflict while maintaining unity among its members. I also secured grants to renovate a wing dedicated to the Children's Ministry. During my tenure at Waynesboro FUMC, I assisted the church in navigating the challenges of COVID-19 and disaffiliation, and led efforts to upgrade outdated audio equipment and install a new video system. I joined Trinity immediately following its disaffiliation, and it has been deeply rewarding to witness the congregation's spiritual and numerical growth, the revitalization of ministries, and the creation of new initiatives. Cross-cultural ministry continues to present new opportunities and provides valuable perspectives for our community.

QUESTIONS

1. Gospel: What is the gospel?

It is the good news that the Kingdom of God is near, and that through Jesus God is reconciling the world to himself. It is the fulfillment of God’s plan to redeem humanity, as declared in Romans 1:3-4.

The gospel has two dimensions: individual and communal. Jesus calls everyone to live under his lordship, making a personal decision to follow him through faith, repentance, and grace, since we cannot restore ourselves. However, the gospel is not just individual but also communal. It transforms lives, creating a community of believers who live out and share the good news. Declaring Jesus as Lord was—and remains—a bold statement, especially in the face of competing powers. Ultimately, proclaiming Jesus’ kingship signals the advance of his Kingdom, reminding us that the gospel came to us on its way to others.

2. Trinity: How would you articulate the doctrine of the Trinity and why it matters?

The doctrine of the Holy Trinity is a central Christian belief that God exists eternally as three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who share one divine essence, power, and eternity. A musical chord is a good illustration, where three unique notes combine to form a harmonious whole, symbolizing how the three persons are distinct yet completely united as one God. The Trinity is evident in the Scripture: for example, Paul’s blessing in 2 Corinthians 13:14, Jesus’ incarnation and baptism. All three persons are seen working together at key moments, such as the baptism of Jesus, where the Father speaks from heaven, the Son is baptized, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove. The Trinity is foundational to Christian faith, shaping both the understanding of God’s nature and the Church’s mission to make disciples in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

3. Jesus: In what sense did Jesus die for our sins, and how does it impact your understanding of the Church’s mission?

Humanity was created in God’s image. Through the fall, we became corrupted and spiritually dead in our sin. Jesus died for our sins by offering himself as a ransom, paying the penalty we could never pay ourselves (Hebrews 10:12). Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, God established a new covenant with us. We are saved by grace through faith (Romans 6:23, Ephesians 1:6). This process involves prevenient, repenting, justifying, sanctifying, and glorifying grace. In other words, faith in Jesus saves us—not our own efforts. Through his death, we are accepted by God. Jesus’ death and resurrection free us from our enemies, as Paul writes in Colossians 2:14-15.

The mission of the church, then, is not just to make converts but to create disciples—people who live out the Good News of the gospel, who are reconciled with God, rescued from evil, and who strive each day to become more like Jesus.

4. Holy Spirit: How does the ministry of the Holy Spirit relate to your understanding of the Church?

On a personal level, the Holy Spirit indwells every believer, making us temples of God’s presence and guiding us toward repentance, faith, and spiritual growth. The Spirit draws us to Christ, convicts us of sin, and empowers us to live out and share the gospel—just as seen in Acts 2, when the Spirit enabled the first Christians to boldly witness and reach people from many backgrounds. On a communal level, the Holy Spirit unites the Church, giving diverse spiritual gifts so each member can serve and build up the body of Christ. This unity and diversity allow the Church to function as one, with Christ as its head. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit’s ongoing work ensures the Church continues to grow, thrive, and fulfill its mission in the world, shaping both individuals and the community as a whole.

5. Sanctification: Do you affirm the doctrine of entire sanctification, and how would you explain it to someone who has not encountered it before?

I affirm the doctrine of entire sanctification. Entire sanctification means being filled with God’s love, which transforms our hearts and empowers us to love God and neighbor. It is not about never making mistakes, but about God’s grace working in us. John Wesley described it as a process that starts the moment we accept God’s grace and continues throughout our lives. We grow by practicing spiritual disciplines—like prayer and reading scripture—and by showing love through acts of mercy and service.

It is like walking into the ocean. The water reaches only your feet, then your knees, and as you move forward, it eventually covers you completely. Yet, even when you are fully immersed, there is still more ocean stretching out ahead. Likewise, sanctification is about continually moving closer to God—growing in grace until we are completely immersed in His love, always discovering there is even more of God to experience.

6. Holiness: How do you understand holiness as it relates to human flourishing?

Holiness is a journey of transformation and renewal, beginning within and shaping how we live outwardly. At its core, holiness is about being rooted in love for God, which naturally extends to love for our neighbors—these two cannot be separated. Holiness is found in this very connection: every act of love toward others expresses our love for God. Since God is the source of holiness, we are called to help one another grow into the likeness of Christ. Importantly, holiness does not mean living without mistakes; rather, it means letting God’s love guide every aspect of our lives. True human flourishing comes from being connected to God and to others. In this way, holiness is about restoration—becoming the person God created us to be. Psalm 1:1-2 reminds us that when we find our delight and joy in God, we experience true flourishing.

7. Sacraments: What is your understanding of the Sacraments and their role in the life of the Church?

The Sacraments are outward signs instituted by Christ, through which God's grace is made visible, tangible, and accessible to believers. There are two sacraments: baptism and communion. Baptism symbolizes our initiation into the Christian community, representing being buried with Christ and raised to new life. It is celebrated once, marking our initiation into the life of the Church. Infant baptism is also practiced, with the community supporting the child's faith journey until the child makes a personal commitment. Communion is a continual act of remembrance and thanksgiving for Christ’s sacrifice. It offers an opportunity for ongoing participation in Christ’s redeeming work and anticipates future fellowship with Him (Matthew 26:29). We believe in an open table where those who repent of their sins are welcomed because it can be a converting ordinance. Both sacraments nurture faith, unite believers, and are central to the spiritual life and mission of the Church.

8. Scripture: What is your understanding of scripture’s inspiration, authority, truthfulness, and sufficiency?

Scripture is the inspired word of God, given through the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s character and purpose to humanity. This divine inspiration means the Bible is entirely trustworthy and authoritative, providing the ultimate standard against which all beliefs and teachings are measured. Both the Old and New Testaments work together to reveal God’s plan for salvation, and Jesus affirmed the Spirit’s ongoing role in illuminating scripture for believers. Scripture’s authority is not merely historical but living—meant to guide, correct, and transform the lives of those who read it. Its truthfulness is evident in its consistent witness to God’s character and redemptive work. The sufficiency of scripture means it contains all we need for salvation (Article V of the Methodist Church in BDD). Engaging scripture, therefore, should result in a life transformed by God.

9. Human Sexuality: What is your understanding of human sexuality expressed in terms of human flourishing?

Humans are made in God's image, male and female, emphasizing our relational nature. Jesus teaches that marriage is a union between one man and one woman, and scripture holds this as the biblical design. Fidelity is vital in marriage, and both physical and emotional commitment are crucial for its flourishing. Husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loves the church, and wives to respect their husbands. Sexual intimacy belongs solely within marriage. In singleness, individuals are called to celibacy. In all cases, we are called to honor God with our bodies. Celibacy is valued equally to marriage. Ultimately, human sexuality is a gift from our God of holy love.

10. Human Beings: How does the biblical vision of human beings made in the image of God form your attitude toward the dignity of human life at every stage from conception to death?

The biblical vision that every human being is made in the image of God profoundly shapes my attitude toward the dignity of human life at every stage, from conception to death. Believing that all people reflect God’s image, I see every life as sacred and worthy of respect, regardless of age, ability, or circumstance. This conviction compels me to defend the vulnerable, including the unborn, the disabled, and the marginalized, recognizing that only God determines the beginning and end of life. Jesus’ example—showing compassion to the outcast and valuing those society ignored—inspires me to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. Ultimately, understanding that all are created in God’s image and that we are loved by him calls me to treat everyone with grace and love, transcending divisions and prejudices, and upholding the inherent dignity of every person.

11. Wesleyan/Methodist Contribution: What is the Wesleyan/Methodist contribution to the Church universal?

John Wesley believed that Christian Perfection is Methodism’s greatest gift to the wider Church. This teaching means that holiness and freedom from sin are possible in our daily lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. However, many Methodists have lost sight of this vision, lowering their expectations of what God can do. The call to Christian Perfection can seem daunting, but Wesley taught that we can live out this calling only by relying on the Holy Spirit. At its core, holiness is about becoming more like Jesus by loving God and others, and isn’t that what disciple-making is all about? By returning to these roots, the Global Methodist Church can continue to transform the world.

12. Global Methodist Church: What is your vision for the GMC?

My vision for the Global Methodist Church is to embrace its theological roots, particularly the doctrine of entire sanctification, which has been central to Methodism's identity and spiritual vitality. We must take this doctrine seriously in both personal and congregational life, continuing the legacy established by John Wesley.

I see the church cultivating a vibrant culture of disciple-making at the local level, empowering members to live intentionally for Jesus through prayer, scripture, worship, and outreach. The mission to make disciples and spread scriptural holiness should remain at the heart of our efforts, with the local church as the primary space for transformation. Leadership, guided by the Holy Spirit, should encourage both clergy and laity to pursue God’s presence earnestly.

Finally, the Global Methodist Church should deepen its commitment to being a global body—valuing partnerships, shared leadership, and equal voices for all.

13. Evangelism: What is evangelism and how have you practiced it effectively in your ministry?

Evangelism is the act of sharing the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ, the first step in making disciples. It is a personal responsibility for every member of the Global Methodist Church, not just a church program. The ministry of reconciliation is a calling for all Christians (2 Cor. 5:17-19). Drawing on Jesus’ example, Robert Coleman's book, The Master Plan of Evangelism, emphasizes building relationships and investing in others, with the ultimate goal of making disciples, not just converts. My approach to evangelism centers on authentic relationships, shaped by years of serving the Hispanic community in South Georgia and now within an English-speaking congregation. Whether helping with practical needs or engaging in meaningful conversations, evangelism happens through genuine care and Christ-like living. While outreach events and sermons play a role, the most significant impact comes from personal connections and living out the gospel daily.

14. Discipleship: What is a disciple, and how have you effectively made disciples in your ministry?

A disciple is one who follows Jesus, is transformed by Him, embraces His teachings, and helps others do the same. The goal is to develop disciples with five traits: (1) a personal relationship with Jesus, (2) accountability through small groups, (3) serving others with love and compassion, (4) living as good stewards, and (5) sharing the gospel and making new disciples. I have made disciples by leading Bible studies and small groups, in which both personal and numerical growth have been observed. For example, I shared the gospel with a woman named Goyita. Through conversations, Bible study, and prayer, she grew in her love for God and others. She now lives several states away, but she continues to follow Jesus and actively shares the gospel and encourages other believers. The aim is to develop disciples like her who continue to grow and share their faith, wherever they go.

15. Local Engagement: How have you led congregations to engage their local contexts with the gospel?

I encourage our congregation to engage the local community by meeting people where they are and building genuine relationships. Our outreach includes practical services, such as constructing ramps for those in need, providing disaster relief, and listening to survivors’ stories. These acts demonstrate God’s love in tangible ways and open hearts to the gospel. Internationally, I have led mission trips that share the gospel through Vacation Bible School, hospital visits, and medical aid. These experiences show that giving is mutual—God’s grace is abundant. We also invite the community into church life by hosting events such as Easter egg hunts, festivals, supporting food pantries, and paying utilities for those facing hardship. Through both local and global missions, we show that the church is a vital presence, offering support, compassion, and connection to all.

16. Unreached People Groups: How do you understand the mission of the GMC in relation to unreached and unengaged people groups?

The mission regarding unreached and unengaged people groups should be guided by the Great Commission, Go and make disciples of all nations. This calls us to actively bring the gospel to people who have not yet heard it. God wants everyone to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). To fulfill this mission, both individual churches and GMC must embrace the responsibility to reach those who have never heard the gospel or received the scriptures in their native language. We do not do this work alone—God is already moving in many places. Local churches can partner with ministries such as Wycliffe Bible Translators to help translate scripture and support outreach. Both the denomination and individual churches must work together to identify, train, send, and sustain missionaries in areas of greatest need. Local churches can further participate by addressing specific needs, sending mission teams when possible, and supporting missionaries already in the field.

17. Global Missions: What is the local church’s role in global missions? How will you equip local churches for that role?

The Book of Doctrines and Disciplines, paragraph 408, states: “The local church is a strategic base from which Christians move out to the structures of society.” Every local church is involved in global missions because we are committed to the Great Commission; the world is our parish. Here are some ways that I would equip the local church for the role in global missions:

o Prayer. The first step any local church can take is to pray.

o Encourage local churches to connect with the Commission on Kingdom Advancement for guidance, resources, and opportunities in global missions.

o Local churches can send short-term mission teams to different regions through partnerships within the connection across the GMC.

o Establish partnerships between churches with experience in global missions and those just beginning to explore mission work.

o The local church can start by supporting a GMC missional partner.

18. Christian Unity: What is your understanding of Christian unity? How will you lead the Church toward greater unity in Christ and the Spirit both within the GMC and in relation to other ecclesial bodies?

Christian unity means loving one another even when we have different opinions. Love is the defining mark of Jesus’ followers (John 13). Even when disagreements arise, love must remain. John Wesley said that although differences in opinion or worship practices may prevent full external unity, they should not prevent unity of heart and affection. Within the GMC, I would encourage pastors and laity alike to remember that we share the same mission. Gatherings and opportunities for shared prayer can help build a caring and loving community; sometimes, ministry can feel isolated. When engaging with other denominations, it is vital to look for shared doctrinal affinity. Building intentional relationships, especially with fellow Wesleyan and Methodist Christians, should always aim to build the kingdom of God. Every partnership should be formed thoughtfully, with the priority of advancing God’s kingdom more than anything else.

19. Bishop's Work: What is your understanding of the work of a bishop?

According to the Book of Doctrines and Discipline, a bishop's work centers on three main responsibilities: providing spiritual leadership, teaching and guarding the apostolic faith, and upholding the BDD.

The bishop provides spiritual guidance, rooted in a personal commitment to Christ. Indeed, to follow Jesus you need to know his voice (John 10:4). Practicing spiritual disciplines is essential and underpins all other duties.

Teaching and guarding the apostolic faith helps clarify priorities and centers on making disciples and helping others experience God’s presence.

Upholding and enforcing the BDD is especially important for our young denomination. The BDD provides the theological foundation of what we believe and how we govern ourselves. We must hold ourselves accountable and trust that God provides discernment to the general conference when changes are needed.

Bishops also appoint conference superintendents and clergy, and, in collaboration with the laity, help the conference fulfill its mission.

20. Your Qualifications: What qualifies you for the office of bishop?

My qualifications are rooted in a deep love for Christ. The daily practice of spiritual disciplines sustains and guides me.

I am committed to the local church, helping congregations serve their communities and grow in faith, drawing on the Wesleyan tradition. I have planted Spanish-speaking churches, stabilized Lake Park UMC after conflict, guided Waynesboro FUMC through the pandemic and disaffiliation, and fostered growth at Trinity GMC. My ministry bridges cultures and promotes unity and respect. As Presiding Elder for Waycross, I supported pastors, addressed church concerns, and found deep fulfillment in encouraging colleagues.

Every new appointment, God has always made it clear to me that He is already at work and has more invested in the church than I do. If God decides to call me into the office of bishop, I know He will be with me, so I will start and end on my knees.

21. Assembly of Bishops: What do you see as the role of the Assembly of Bishops?

When I read the Book of Doctrines and Discipline, I see the Assembly as a group in which accountability and spiritual growth go hand in hand. Accountability among bishops is essential, but it should always be rooted in love and strong spiritual leadership.

The assembly plans for the growth of the church (spiritually and numerically), guides and teaches the church in doctrinal, theological, spiritual, and moral matters, and provides temporal leadership for the church as described in the BDD. One of the most important roles of the assembly is to shepherd the church toward unity grounded in the love of Christ.

The Assembly of Bishops is like a discipling community—walking alongside one another, helping each other grow, and leading the church to become more like Jesus.

22. Fellow Bishops: How do you envision working together with fellow bishops?

When working with fellow bishops, I expect relationships built on love, unity, and cooperation. Much like in a disciple-making group, I see bishops openly sharing both their successes and struggles, not just in ministry but even on a personal level when needed. I hope to collaborate with other bishops as we envision the wider mission of the church—reaching and making disciples together, and celebrating the richness that diverse cultures, languages, and people bring to making Christ known. I have appreciated the teaching from our current bishops because I believe it unites the church. I think we can build on this, for example, by creating new resources—such as a series on the basics of Methodism with practical applications for local churches and adaptations for different contexts. I also imagine bishops sharing resources and best practices, so that strengths in one conference can help strengthen others across the connection.

23. Conference Superintendents: How do you envision working together with and supervising conference superintendents?

The conference superintendent knows the conference —its strengths, weaknesses, and culture. Together, they can ensure that local churches are growing spiritually and identifying new ministry opportunities and help the bishop to focus more on shepherding. They help the local church fulfill the mission and vision of the Global Methodist Church, tailored to each annual conference's context. It is important that conference superintendents have ample opportunities to grow in all areas of their ministry. The bishop should encourage them to attend relevant conferences to support their growth in the role and ensure they take personal vacation time.

Supervision needs to be carried out respectfully and honestly, and the relationship should be built on trust and appreciation for each other. Even when they disagree, a cooperative relationship is expected. Since bishops will likely oversee international conferences, the conference superintendent can help the bishop navigate cultural differences and identify opportunities for mutual growth.

24. Handling Concerns: If laity or clergy bring concerns directly to you bypassing their presiding elders and/or conference superintendent, would you include the applicable conference superintendent and/or presiding elder in the conversation? If so, how would you empower your conference superintendents and/or presiding elders in the discussion?

Yes, I would include the appropriate conference superintendent and/or presiding elder in the conversation. It is important to remember that these leaders work closely with the bishop and serve as an extension of the bishop’s office. Bypassing them can lead to confusion or distrust. We have established structures and processes for handling complaints (see paragraphs 901-909). The bishop should empower and trust the conference superintendent and presiding elders to manage these situations in accordance with our guidelines.

To empower them, I would explain to the complainant that the GMC has a clear process for handling complaints and that the conference superintendent, presiding elder, or their designee is best equipped to guide them through it. Including the appropriate leaders ensures everyone who needs to be involved is present, allows us to follow established procedures, and helps eliminate doubts. This approach ensures fairness and transparency throughout the process.

25. Laity Leadership: How do you envision incorporating laity into the leadership of the church and into your leadership team?

I believe in the priesthood of all believers. Every member of the Global Methodist Church is meant to share God’s calling. The laity are not just assistants to the clergy; they are central to God’s work in the world. Laity are called, empowered, and sent to serve others. Clergy are responsible for equipping and supporting the laity in their ministries. I want to empower the laity to serve using their unique gifts and talents. In every church I have served, lay people have brought expertise in areas like finance, law, biblical studies, and counseling, among others, always serving faithfully and with integrity. Both clergy and laity are called to make disciples for Christ. Clergy should recognize and support the gifts of the laity, while laity should take active roles and not leave everything to the clergy. We are partners in ministry, and God is working through the whole church.

26. GMC Challenges: What do you see as the top three challenges facing the GMC today? How would you address them?

The GMC faces three main challenges: reclaiming our Wesleyan heritage, preventing a top-heavy structure, and keeping bishops focused on teaching over administration.

We must teach Wesleyan roots to clergy and laity, emphasizing accountability, small groups, spiritual disciplines, and works of mercy. Wesley warned Methodism could become a 'dead sect' without its original doctrine, spirit, and discipline. Reclaiming these foundations is essential for true disciple-making and pursuing holiness.

To prevent a top-heavy organization, the GMC should keep leadership lean and empower local churches. The broader denomination’s main role is to support these churches with vision and practical help, fostering healthy, grassroots growth through clear purpose and accountability for all leaders.

Finally, bishops must remain teachers and disciple-makers, not just administrators. Their leadership should be rooted in the Word and active engagement with congregations, modeling disciple-making at every level.

27. Devotional Life: How would you characterize your devotional life?

My devotional life is marked by consistency and honesty. I wake up early to spend time in God’s Word, praying, and worshiping through music. Sometimes I feel His presence and hear Him speak to my heart; other days, it is simply about showing up. I have learned that consistency matters, and it is encouraging to know God is always present, ready and waiting for me. I bring my fears and questions honestly to God. The psalms often help when words fail. There is peace in knowing God always listens.

My devotional life is deeply spiritual. Sometimes I sense the Holy Spirit in tangible ways; other times, it is simply reading, praying, and trusting God’s presence, even without strong emotions. My devotional life shapes my identity as a child of God, reminding me who I am in Him.

28. Theological Resources: What are the top five authors or theological resources to which you turn for research and learning and why?

NT Wright: Wright’s theological emphasis on the Kingdom of God and New Creation has been particularly formative for me. He excels at presenting the New Testament through a first-century lens, making complex ideas understandable and relevant.

Brian Russell: His writings on spiritual disciplines from a Wesleyan perspective have deepened my personal spiritual journey.

David Watson: I find his articles engaging and insightful, especially as he bridges the gap between academic theology and the church from a Wesleyan perspective.

Over the past two years, I have concentrated on reading about disciple-making. Authors such as Robert Coleman, Brandon Guindon, Robby Gallaty, and Greg Ogden have been particularly influential. I want to become a more effective disciple-maker.

Recently, I have begun reading more of Billy Abraham's work. I value his call to return to historic Wesleyan beliefs, to root theology in canonical scripture, and to embrace clear doctrinal boundaries.

29. Failures: Describe one time you failed; what did you learn from that failure?

My first pastoral appointment involved serving a small, established Spanish-speaking church and a new church plant. Driven to succeed, I devoted myself to visiting members, preparing Bible studies and sermons, and leading worship, all while commuting for my MDiv studies. I was so caught up in meeting every request that I did not notice how much my family was left alone or how the needs of the new church plant and my own well-being were neglected. With my wife’s counsel, I realized I had lost sight of my priorities.

I was letting others’ expectations, not God, guide me. I learned that my first ministry is to my family, not trying to please everyone. I finally understood that I can’t make everyone happy. This experience taught me to serve the Lord of the church and set up healthy boundaries.

30. Leadership Style: How would you describe your leadership style?

My leadership style is cooperative, realistic, and rooted in servant leadership. I value collaboration and seek solutions that help us achieve our mission as a team, making decisions through group discernment. This approach builds trust, encourages open dialogue, and empowers everyone to contribute. While not every decision pleases everyone, our shared vision and mission guide us forward.

I am realistic, facing situations honestly helps us to clarify what must be done. This keeps us mission-focused, even when decisions are difficult. My optimism and deep faith in what God can do are the foundation of my leadership.

As a servant leader, I work alongside my team, and I am willing to learn from others. I strive to empower each person to flourish and contribute to our shared mission. For me, leadership is about growing and succeeding together.

31. Decision Making: Give an example of a time when you had to make a difficult decision as a leader and how you made that decision.

During the COVID pandemic, our leadership team faced a major challenge: deciding when to reopen our church without a clear consensus.

I encouraged the team to focus on our mission and find common ground. We prioritized our community and church, while setting aside our personal preferences. By keeping our shared purpose in mind, we were able to compromise and make a unified decision.

The discussions became heated at times, but we focused on creating policies that balanced reopening and caring for our congregation. We set a reopening date and established safety measures, including cleaning pews after each service, removing cushions, and enforcing social distancing. Communion was offered in person and by drive-through. The team reached consensus on these plans and, as circumstances changed, we continually adjusted our approach until all restrictions were eventually lifted. Our mission helped us adapt and face the challenge before us.

32. Confrontation: Give an example of a time when you had to confront an employee or colleague over behavior or beliefs contrary to those agreed upon and how you handled it.

As associate pastor for Hispanic ministry, I helped launch a Hispanic congregation at Lake Park and advocated for one unified church, not a separate mission. When someone joined during a Spanish service, they became a full member of Lake Park UMC, marking a shift from treating Hispanic ministry as just an outreach. This new model fostered true integration and had strong support from the Anglo congregation.

Later, I noticed that new signs were made, but they were only in English, and I raised the issue with the senior pastor, reminding him of our commitment to integration. Though the conversation was difficult, it led to a board discussion and agreement to update the signage, adding Spanish. This experience showed me the importance of holding others accountable and ensuring that stated commitments are matched by real action. I was relieved we reached a positive outcome.

33. Teaching: What experience do you have in a teaching role? How has your teaching style evolved during your ministry?

Teaching is a central part of my ministry. I have led Sunday School, Bible studies, small groups, and preached in English and Spanish. I have taught adults, youth, and children.

Preaching in both English and Spanish has taught me to use stories and examples that connect with each audience. Some illustrations resonate with Latin American congregations but not with English-speaking ones. Moving between cultures has helped me to understand both sides and bridge cultural gaps.

My preaching style has evolved from a thematic to an expository approach. Most importantly, I have learned that teaching and preaching are most effective when they flow from a genuine relationship with God. Knowledge and skill are important, but only God brings true transformation. The more time I spend with Him, the richer my preaching becomes. Early in my ministry, I was told, “Prepare like you didn’t pray and pray like you didn’t prepare.”