Leo Tae Youl Park
Northeast
| EPISCOPAL NOMINEE INFORMATION |
| Languages | Education | Training | Ministry History | Questions |
LANGUAGES
Korean, English
EDUCATION
| School |
Degree |
End (mm/yy) |
| United Theological Seminary |
Doctor of Ministry |
May 2024 |
| United Theological Seminary |
Master of Divinity |
May 2015 |
| Thomas Edison State College |
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration |
June 2011 |
TRAINING
| Course |
End (mm/yy) |
| International Leadership Institute |
January 21, 2026 |
| New Church Planter Leadership Institute |
November 2008 |
CERTIFICATIONS
| Certification |
End (mm/yy) |
| Certificate of Small Business |
March 2001 |
MINISTRY HISTORY
| Church/Organization |
Position |
Begin (mm/yy) |
| Northeast Annual Conference |
Conference Missional Strategist |
March 1, 2026 |
| Mariners Bethel Global Methodist Church |
Associate Pastor |
December 1, 2023 |
| Korean United Methodist Church of South Jersey |
Senior Pastor |
July 1, 2017 |
| Bethany United Methodist Church |
Associate Pastor |
July 1, 2015 |
| Elim United Methodist Church |
Senior Pastor |
June 1, 2011 |
| Korean Orthodox Pastors Association of Global Methodist Church |
President |
April 2025 |
| Conference Prayer and Intercession Team of Northeast Annual Conference |
Chairperson |
April 2024 |
| Board of Ministry of Northeast Annual Conference |
Member |
April 2024 |
| Connectional Council of Northeast Annual Conference |
Member |
February 2024 |
| Prayer Committee of Commission of the 2026 General Conference |
Member |
May 2025 |
| United Theological Seminary |
Doctor of Ministry Faculty Mentor |
July 1, 2025 |
| Prayer Committee of Commission of the 2024 Convening General Conference |
Member |
September 2024 |
| United Theological Seminary |
Contextual Ministries Facilitator |
August 1, 2024 |
| Transitional Conference Advisory Team of Northeast |
Member |
May 2023 |
| Prayer Steering Committee of Global Methodist Church |
Member |
August 2022 |
| Board of Trustee of Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association |
Member |
January 2022 |
| Wesleyan Covenant Association International Intercessory Prayer Network |
Chairperson |
January 2020 |
| Greater NJ Wesleyan Covenant Association |
Council Member and Lead Intercessor |
January 2020 |
| Prayer Committee of Jersey Shore Will Graham Celebration of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association |
Chairperson |
January 2010 |
| Steering Committee of Jersey Shore Will Graham Celebration of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association |
Secretary |
October 2008 |
MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS
1. Conference Prayer Network Development
• Recruited 84 Prayer Point Persons (PPPs) across 200 local churches in the Northeast Conference within one year
• Currently training 43 PPPs through monthly webinars in partnership with Aldersgate Renewal Ministries
• Established a growing, structured prayer network to strengthen spiritual leadership across the conference
2. Prayer & Intercession Training (Local Church Impact)
• Led a 5-week Prayer and Intercession training at Kent Island Global Methodist Church
• 70+ participants trained
• 100+ attended the culminating prayer service
• 70+ individuals responded to the altar call, committing to ongoing prayer ministry
3. Congregational Prayer Culture Transformation
• Over 2024–2025, 82 out of 347 members (23.6%) at Mariners Bethel Global Methodist Church received formal prayer training, including:
- Congregational Prayer Training
- Altar (Healing) Prayer Training
- Care Prayer Training
- Consecration Prayer Training
- Prayer & Intercession Seminar
- Prayer War Room Training
• Significant progress toward the vision: becoming a truly praying church where every member becomes a person of prayer.
4. Pastoral Care & Home Visitation
• Demonstrated intentional shepherding through personal home visitation:
- Visited all 91 members (100%) aged 80+ in their homes in 2025
- Visited 55 out of 111 members (50%) aged 70–79
• Strengthened relational care, spiritual encouragement, and pastoral presence among senior members
5. Regional Prayer Event Leadership
• Hosted a regional event with Aldersgate Renewal Ministries (March 28–29, 2025)
• 36 church members mobilized into ministry roles (hospitality, prayer, worship, tech, children/youth, etc.)
• 73 participants (66 adults, 2 youth, 5 children)
• Spiritual outcomes:
- 3 children accepted Jesus Christ
- 1 adult experienced physical healing
- Many encountered the presence and work of the Holy Spirit
6. Evangelism & Discipleship through ALPHA
• Led 11-week ALPHA program:
- 150 registered participants
- 120–130 average weekly attendance
• Strong volunteer mobilization across multiple ministry teams
• Final outcomes (Nov. 18, 2024):
- 1 new believer committed their life to Christ
- 100% of 120 attendees affirmed assurance of salvation
QUESTIONS
1. Gospel: What is the gospel?
Gospel is the good news of God’s salvation for sinful humanity through Jesus Christ. Human beings were created to live with God forever but were deceived by Satan and fell into sin. As a result, death entered the world, and humanity became separated from God. Because of sin, we were destined to die. But God did not leave us in that condition. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came into this world as a sinless human being. He took upon Himself our sins and was nailed to the cross in our place. Through His death and the shedding of His blood, He paid the price for our sins. Now, when we believe in Jesus and accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we are saved from sin, receive eternal life, and are restored to live with God forever. When asked why, Bible answers, “For God so loved the world.”
2. Trinity: How would you articulate the doctrine of the Trinity and why it matters?
I believe that God is Triune—one God in three Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In relation to creation, I believe in God as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. The first Person is called “Father” because His nature is love. The Father loves the Son. As Augustine describes, “God is the Lover, the Son is the Beloved, and the Holy Spirit is the Love that binds the two.” The doctrine of the Trinity is central to the Christian faith. It is not merely an abstract idea, but an eternal truth. Though we cannot fully comprehend it, it remains unchanging. Throughout history, false teachings have opposed this doctrine, and such misunderstandings continue today. The historic and orthodox doctrine of the Trinity affirms three truths: there is one God; this one God exists eternally as three Persons; and these three Persons are distinct, yet one in essence.
3. Jesus: In what sense did Jesus die for our sins, and how does it impact your understanding of the Church’s mission?
Adam and Eve sinned, bringing separation between humanity and God. The Bible teaches that all have sinned and the penalty of sin is death. John Wesley explained, “The body dies when separated from the soul; the soul dies when separated from God.” When Adam and Eve sinned, they lost the life of God within them. Sin entered, and with it came death. Because of sin, death has come upon all humanity, and every person needs a Savior to rescue them. Human beings cannot save themselves or restore their fallen nature. To be made new, our sins must be forgiven by God’s mercy. Out of His love, God gave His only Son so that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. As Romans 5:8 says, Christ died for us while we were still sinners. Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ alone.
4. Holy Spirit: How does the ministry of the Holy Spirit relate to your understanding of the Church?
The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity—fully God and co-equal with the Father and the Son. He is not an impersonal force, but a divine Person who relates, speaks, guides, and empowers believers. Because He is a Person, He desires fellowship with God’s people and fills those who yield to Him. Jesus calls Him the Paraklētos—Counselor, Helper, Advocate, and Comforter. He guides us into truth and gives wisdom. He intercedes for believers with groanings too deep for words, aligning our prayers with God’s will. He teaches by illuminating Scripture and leading us into obedience. As the Spirit of Truth, He reveals and brings to remembrance God’s Word. The Holy Spirit is the power who raised Christ and now empowers believers for witness and ministry. Therefore, the Church is a Spirit-filled community whose life, unity, and mission depend entirely on His presence and work.
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. I believe that sanctification is a journey, and perfection is its destination. Justification comes through Jesus Christ, and sanctification through the Holy Spirit. At justification, every believer is born again, marking the beginning of this journey. From there, the believer grows in grace through progressive sanctification, becoming more like Christ. The goal is to love God fully and love others fully. John Wesley described this as a heart filled with love for God and people, and a life reflecting Christ’s mind and actions. This process is accomplished through the power of God’s love. Can we reach perfection in this life? I believe we can. Jesus lived as a perfect human, and the Holy Spirit who sanctifies us dwells within us. Therefore, Jesus commands us, “Be perfect… as your Father is perfect,” showing that such a life is possible.
6. Holiness: How do you understand holiness as it relates to human flourishing?
Holiness, Christian perfection, and entire sanctification are closely related and often used interchangeably. Scriptural holiness is defined by the Bible. In Leviticus 19:2, God says, “You shall be holy, for I am holy,” showing that holiness is central to His character and will. Because God is holy, His people are called to be holy. The perfect example is Jesus Christ, and a Christian is one who seeks to live as He lived. This journey begins at the new birth and is shaped by Scripture, which reveals how we are to live. Through Christ’s resurrection, the power of sin is broken. Holiness is not what we do for God, but what God does in us—freeing us from sin and forming us in love. Christians are called to think and live differently. Holy living means being freed from sin and living according to God’s Word.
7. Sacraments: What is your understanding of the Sacraments and their role in the life of the Church?
There are two sacraments: Holy Baptism and Holy Communion. Ordained by Jesus Christ, they are means of grace, as John Wesley taught. In them, God offers His unfailing grace, which we receive by faith. They are outward signs of inward grace, allowing us to experience God’s love in Christ. One of the most meaningful lessons in my ministry is the beauty of open communion. Holy Communion is the Lord’s Table, with room for everyone. Here we are reminded that we are one in Christ—one bread, one cup, one Lord. Holy Baptism proclaims our entrance into the community of faith by God’s grace, signifying new birth through water and the Spirit. I especially value infant baptism, as it proclaims that salvation is entirely by grace, not our works. It reflects God’s initiative and expresses His prevenient grace—reaching us even before we respond.
8. Scripture: What is your understanding of scripture’s inspiration, authority, truthfulness, and sufficiency?
I believe that “all Scripture is God-breathed… so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Scripture, both Old and New Testaments, is the primary foundation of our faith. Global Methodists affirm that it contains all things necessary for salvation and is received through the Holy Spirit as the true rule for faith and practice. Its authority comes from its divine authorship—it is the Word of God. We uphold the Bible as the primary rule for faith, morals, and service, against which all other authorities are measured. Its reliability is supported by history, archaeology, and the witness of believers throughout the centuries. Though translated into many languages, its message remains consistent, showing its trustworthiness. This is what we mean by “infallibly true.” From the early disciples to today, countless believers have remained faithful to Scripture, even at the cost of their lives.
9. Human Sexuality: What is your understanding of human sexuality expressed in terms of human flourishing?
Human sexuality is a noble and beautiful gift from God. God created human beings as male and female—an expression of the love of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God not only created two sexes—male and female—but also designed them to be attracted to one another and to love each other. In marriage, a man and a woman are united as one, reflecting the image of God expressed in love. One image of God meets another, they enter into covenant, and become one. The Bible calls this “a profound mystery.” Though the fullness of being made in God’s image is beyond our understanding, we are given glimpses of it. In my ministry, I see this when I hold a newborn child—a beautiful expression of God’s creative love. As John Wesley wrote, “Accordingly, [humankind] at [their] creation was full of 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?
Human beings are created in the image and likeness of God; therefore, every person has sacred worth. Scripture declares that each person is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” I believe human dignity begins at conception. God forms and knits us together in the womb. God is the author and giver of life. And that life is so sacred and precious. Every human life has inherent value, regardless of stage or condition. Human beings were created for an eternal, loving relationship with God. Yet because of sin, humanity became separated from Him. In His love, Jesus Christ came into the world, took upon Himself our sins, and died on the cross to save us. Through Him, our relationship with God is restored. Therefore, every person is a being of dignity—created in God’s image, embraced by His love, and redeemed through the grace of Jesus Christ.
11. Wesleyan/Methodist Contribution: What is the Wesleyan/Methodist contribution to the Church universal?
When John Wesley launched the Methodist movement in 18th-century England, a powerful revival brought many to salvation. Yet Wesley did not stop there—he was committed to making disciples. He developed intentional methods, especially class meetings, to help believers grow into mature followers of Christ. Many revivals have occurred in Christian history, but the Methodist revival was unique for its discipleship. George Whitefield recognized this, saying Wesley preserved the fruit of his ministry through class meetings, while he did not. These meetings became a model for small group ministry now used worldwide. I believe the Lord is raising up another Methodist revival through the Global Methodist movement. As in Wesley’s time, it will lead many to salvation. But we will not stop there—we will also recover effective discipleship methods, making a lasting contribution to the life and mission of the universal Church.
12. Global Methodist Church: What is your vision for the GMC?
I have a dream for the Global Methodist Church: that for the next 500 years it will remain not merely an institution, but a Spirit-led movement. This movement is one of renewal and revival, spreading scriptural holiness through the restoration of God’s truth by the power of the Holy Spirit. At its core, it seeks a biblical and authentic church—where the Lordship of Jesus Christ is honored and the authority of Scripture is proclaimed, defended, and lived. Its true driving force is the Holy Spirit, not human effort. As Zechariah 4:6 declares, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit.” How will this movement continue? Through prayer. As Watchman Nee said, “Prayer lays the rails upon which the purposes of God travel.” This is my calling: to help lay those rails, so that this movement moves forward on God’s path, with prayer at its very heart.
13. Evangelism: What is evangelism and how have you practiced it effectively in your ministry?
Jesus Christ commissions His disciples to go, preach the Gospel, make disciples, and be His witnesses. The first step of disciple-making is evangelism—sharing the Good News with those who do not yet believe. I have a deep passion for prayer evangelism. Through ministry, I have found it both effective and accessible. Most people respond positively to the question, “May I pray for you?” It is rare for someone to refuse, making prayer a natural way to engage others. Prayer evangelism begins by addressing physical needs—such as finances, relationships, or illness. As we pray, it opens the door to speak about their spiritual need: salvation. In this way, prayer becomes both a connection point and a pathway to the Gospel. Evangelism is not merely a church program, but a calling for every believer—a natural expression of a life transformed by Christ.
14. Discipleship: What is a disciple, and how have you effectively made disciples in your ministry?
The word “disciple” means a learner or apprentice. In the Jewish context, the term talmid describes more than a student—it is one who follows the rabbi closely, learns his teaching, imitates his life, and becomes like him in character and behavior. In Acts 11, disciples were first called “Christians,” meaning “little Christ,” showing that a disciple is one who follows and lives like Christ. I make disciples by following Jesus’s model. Jesus modeled disciple-making by investing deeply in three—Peter, James, and John. Following His example, in my ministry I intentionally make three disciples rather than reach many without depth. We must ask ourselves: Do I have my own Peter, James, and John? If I don't have them, then I am not making disciples. Furthermore, if I am not making disciples, then I am not truly a disciple of Jesus Christ. Why? Because a disciple makes disciples.
15. Local Engagement: How have you led congregations to engage their local contexts with the gospel?
From years of experience, I believe prayer evangelism is one of the most effective and accessible ways to share the Gospel. Most people respond positively to the question, “May I pray for you?” It is rare for someone to refuse, making prayer a natural and non-threatening way to approach others. Prayer evangelism begins by addressing their physical needs—such as finances, relationships, or physical healing. As we pray, hearts are opened, and we can gently share their spiritual need for salvation through Jesus Christ. In my previous ministry, I trained members to go out in pairs to the seaside boardwalk, offering prayer and sharing the Gospel. We witnessed God at work—people experienced healing, and others came to faith in Christ. Evangelism is not merely a church program, but a calling for every believer—a natural expression of a life transformed by the Gospel.
16. Unreached People Groups: How do you understand the mission of the GMC in relation to unreached and unengaged people groups?
Disciple-making is a core element of the Global Methodist Church. Its mission is “to make disciples of Jesus Christ and spread scriptural holiness across the globe.” As of 2025, the world’s population exceeds 8 billion, yet according to the World Mission Report, approximately 40% of the world’s population has little or no access to the Gospel. This calls for renewed urgency in the mission of disciple-making. Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers.” A true disciple shares Christ’s heart for the lost and carries a burden for those who do not know Him. Therefore, Global Methodist churches in the world should establish clear and intentional disciple-making pathways that produce faithful disciples who can be sent out to multiply churches in those unreached people groups.
17. Global Missions: What is the local church’s role in global missions? How will you equip local churches for that role?
I believe that the ultimate goal of missions is to establish churches in the mission field. One of the core elements of the Global Methodist Church movement is church planting and multiplication. Rather than following the traditional model of church planting—where an annual conference selects a location, sends a pastor, and provides full financial support to establish a new church—the Global Methodist Church has adopted a model in which local churches give birth to new churches through disciple-making. The key to the multiplication of existing churches is disciple-making. Church planting happens by multiplying disciple-making communities. Therefore, the strategy is to help, train, equip, and resource local churches so they can make disciples and multiply churches through those disciples. We need to support local churches in establishing clear and intentional disciple-making pathways that produce faithful disciples who can be sent out to multiply churches.
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?
Over the past two years, we have walked together as one global body, overcoming challenges and building unity and shared purpose. This sense of camaraderie, I love this word, —a bond formed through sacrifice—will sustain us in the future. The Global Methodist Church was established at great cost. To uphold the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the authority of Scripture, many endured hardship, opposition, and even threats to their lives. Because of this, we must not compromise what we have faithfully preserved simply for the sake of being “ecumenical.” At the same time, I affirm building relationships with other Christian denominations where there is genuine agreement in doctrine and theology. Where such agreement is lacking, partnerships should be approached with discernment, not merely for appearance However, this position does not justify hatred or exclusion. We are called to hold together both theological integrity and Christian charity.
19. Bishop's Work: What is your understanding of the work of a bishop?
According to the Book of Doctrine and Discipline, bishops are entrusted with guarding the faith, order, liturgy, doctrine, and discipline of the Church. In the Global Methodist Church, Conference Superintendents carry primary responsibility for administrative leadership within their annual conferences, while bishops are called to focus more deeply on spiritual leadership. Therefore, I believe that the primary challenge of global superintendency for bishops lies not in administration, but in spiritual responsibility. The most essential quality of a leader is spiritual depth. I firmly believe that those who follow a leader rarely grow beyond the leader’s own spiritual maturity. If a leader does not grow spiritually, neither will those under their care. Spiritual leadership is grounded in two practices: prayer and the ministry of the Word. These are foundational, not secondary. Therefore, bishops must devote themselves fully to prayer and the Word, leading the Church with deep spiritual vitality.
20. Your Qualifications: What qualifies you for the office of bishop?
Based on the Book of Doctrines and Discipline, I believe I meet the qualifications for the office of bishop. I believe this is evidenced by the fact that the Northeast Conference delegates unanimously nominated me as an episcopal candidate. However, I know I still have much to learn. The office of bishop is not something to pursue for personal desire; it is God’s calling and appointment. If the Lord opens that door, I am willing to step forward in obedience. This is not about my preferences, but about yielding to God’s will. I lay down my own will and ask that His will be done in my life. When I discern God’s call, I cannot resist it because I have experienced His goodness so deeply. This calling is not about elevating myself, but offering my life for God’s purposes, with a heart open to learning and serving with humility.
21. Assembly of Bishops: What do you see as the role of the Assembly of Bishops?
The primary role of the Assembly of Bishops is to serve as spiritual shepherds of the denomination, working together in unity. As the spiritual shepherds of the Church, the Assembly of Bishops is called to “speak pastorally to the church and from the church to the world.” In this way, the Assembly provides spiritual leadership for the Global Methodist Church. As spiritual leaders, the bishops are responsible for teaching the Word, upholding sound doctrine, and fostering unity among the more than 7,000 local churches around the world. In addition, the Assembly of Bishops must equip and encourage pastors to grow in prayer and in the ministry of the Word. By doing so, they help pastors become faithful spiritual leaders who are likewise devoted to prayer and the Word. Through this shared commitment, the whole Church is strengthened in its life, unity, and mission.
22. Fellow Bishops: How do you envision working together with fellow bishops?
As a bishop of the Global Methodist Church, I will commit to praying for my fellow bishops and supporting them as we serve together as one team in fulfilling the calling and mission entrusted to us by the Lord Jesus Christ. That is why I believe that building trust and strong relationships among the bishops is essential. We must remember that bishops are not meant to function as individuals, but as a unified body. If we are not united among ourselves as spiritual leaders, I don’t think we as bishops can lead more than 7,000 churches around the world toward greater unity. Therefore, I believe that it is vital that bishops support, encourage, and strengthen one another. In doing so, we will grow together as faithful and effective spiritual leaders for the Global Methodist Church.
23. Conference Superintendents: How do you envision working together with and supervising conference superintendents?
One of the distinctive strengths of the Global Methodist Church is the shared leadership between bishops and conference superintendents, working together in mutual cooperation. Bishops carry limited responsibility for the temporal affairs of the annual conferences, while conference superintendents oversee the day-to-day administrative and operational leadership of their annual conferences. This shared leadership structure allows each role to function according to its calling. Within this relationship, bishops are called to mentor and coach conference superintendents, offering spiritual guidance and support. Bishops are tasked with a mutual relationship of accountability with conference superintendents, and bishops work to empower conference superintendents in their role. As a bishop, I will honor and uphold the authority of conference superintendents. I will not undercut their leadership and authority. The role of a bishop is not rooted in power authority, but in spiritual authority—serving, guiding, and strengthening others for the sake of the Church.
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?
This situation arises at every level of the Church. At times, laity or clergy may bypass established leadership and bring concerns directly to higher authority. If someone approaches me in person as bishop, I will listen carefully and respectfully. However, I will explain that I must share their concern with their presiding elder and/or conference superintendent. I will not undercut the authority of those entrusted with direct oversight. If they are unwilling, I will respectfully decline to proceed. If concerns come by email, I will acknowledge them and include the appropriate leaders to ensure transparency and accountability. My role as a bishop is to direct concerns through proper channels and entrust conference leadership to pursue resolution. I remain available to support and guide as needed. However, in matters involving complaints, I will follow the procedures outlined in The Book of Doctrine and Discipline.
25. Laity Leadership: How do you envision incorporating laity into the leadership of the church and into your leadership team?
I consider the laity to be my co-laborers in the work of the Kingdom of God. Laity brings different gifts and graces, rich life and corporate experiences, and wisdom that complement and strengthen pastoral leadership. Laity and clergy working together creates amazing spiritual synergy in the church. I always try to prayerfully, lovingly and humbly incorporate with laity. I love training lay leaders to serve in various worship roles, such as worship service liturgist, congregational prayer leader, and Scripture reader. And I really enjoy leading Sunday worship services with them. It brings me great joy to see laypeople grow in their faith, develop the gifts given to them by the Holy Spirit, and step into the ministries to which the Lord has called them. I give thanks to God for the privilege of partnering with them in building His Kingdom—both within the local church and in the wider community.
26. GMC Challenges: What do you see as the top three challenges facing the GMC today? How would you address them?
The greatest challenge is ensuring the Global Methodist Church remains a Spirit-led movement, not merely an institution, for generations. This depends on prayer. Scripture and history show that when prayer declines, spiritual power diminishes—and movements lose vitality. Therefore, I am deeply committed to keeping the fire of prayer alive in the Global Methodist Church so that prayer remains at the very center of our movement. A second challenge is connecting over 7,000 local churches across diverse cultures and nations. Through years of experience, I have learned that prayer is inherently connectional. It transcends culture, language, and geography. I would promote regular prayer gatherings in every conference and advocate for a Global Prayer Summit to unite the Church. A third challenge is cross-cultural and cross-racial appointments. Barriers remain, especially for diverse and female pastors. We must intentionally develop cross-cultural training for leaders and congregations to build a truly global Church.
27. Devotional Life: How would you characterize your devotional life?
My day begins early in the morning with Scripture reading and prayer. I am blessed to learn from a dedicated Bible teacher named Samuel Lee. Although he is a layperson, his knowledge of Scripture and his spiritual insight are truly remarkable. Each morning, he sends me a Torah portion along with a teaching. I begin my day by reading the assigned Bible portion and meditating on it deeply. Afterward, I spend time in prayer, listening for the Lord’s voice and seeking His guidance for the day ahead. Typically, I dedicate about one to one and a half hours each morning to be with the Lord before beginning the rest of my day. In this time, I go deeper in the Word and grow in a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.
28. Theological Resources: What are the top five authors or theological resources to which you turn for research and learning and why?
First, Rev. John Wesley is my foremost theological influence, especially his teachings on prevenient and sanctifying grace, which shape both my theology and faith. I often use his Explanatory Notes Upon the New Testament in sermon preparation. Second, Rev. E. M. Bounds has deeply influenced my understanding of prayer, helping me grasp its power and necessity. I often draw from his insights and share his teachings with the congregation. Third, Dr. Richard Booker helped open my understanding of Scripture and Jesus from a Jewish perspective. His teachings have enriched my biblical interpretation. Fourth, Dr. Terry Teykl has strengthened my prayer life, teaching me to pray with greater intention and faithfulness, which I now pass on to others. Finally, Mr. Samuel Lee, though a layperson, provides daily spiritual nourishment through his deep scriptural insight. His teachings have greatly strengthened the depth and quality of my preaching.
29. Failures: Describe one time you failed; what did you learn from that failure?
During the disaffiliation process at my former church, I experienced deep betrayal. A trusted lay elder worked with the district superintendent to remove me, and people I had discipled walked away—even those who had once testified to God’s work. This season brought intense frustration, depression, and anger I struggled to control. When I chose to join the Global Methodist Church in April 2023, I lost my salary and parsonage, leaving me uncertain how to provide for my family. I felt like a failure and questioned my calling. During that time, I traveled to Israel and prayed at Mt. Eremos, where Jesus often withdrew. There, the Lord met me and renewed His call. I realized I could not find peace doing anything else. Though scars remain, I am no longer defined by pain. The joy and grace of the Lord have become greater, restoring and making me whole again.
30. Leadership Style: How would you describe your leadership style?
My leadership style is, first and foremost, relationship-based servant leadership. I treat people not as objects to accomplish tasks, but as individuals created in the image of God. I do not lead by imposing my will. Instead, I lead by serving—walking alongside others with support, encouragement, and guidance. Though this may not produce immediate results, it builds strong and lasting relationships. I trust that God is at work in people in His time. I also practice shared leadership rooted in teamwork. I do not rely on authority, position, or control, but lead through patience, encouragement, and empowerment. I avoid micromanaging, creating space for others to grow and lead. Rather than placing myself at the center, I seek to create space for others to grow, lead, and flourish. Above all, my desire is not for personal recognition, but that Jesus Christ alone would receive the glory.
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.
Last August, my conference superintendent called about a new role: Conference Missional Strategist. At the time, I was deeply fulfilled as an associate pastor at Mariners Bethel GMC, especially in prayer ministry. I was teaching on prayer, restructuring the prayer ministry, training prayer leaders, and establishing a prayer “war room,” something I had long envisioned. Over two years, the prayer ministry grew and helped shape the church into a house of prayer. Leaving the church was an extremely difficult. I felt deep sorrow for the prayer leaders who had walked with me. I prayed for two months, seeking the Lord’s will, but sensed no clear answer. Clarity came through my wife. When I shared the situation, she responded with joy, saying the role aligned with what God was doing in my life. In that moment, I sensed the Lord leading me to serve at the conference level.
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.
Last year, I traveled to Korea with 40 pastors and lay leaders from the Global Methodist Church to learn the spirituality of Korean church. During that time, one of the leaders on the organizing team broke a commitment that we had all agreed upon. As a result, the Korean host church experienced significant harm. After the conference concluded and we returned to the United States, the organizing team convened to address the situation. During that meeting, I spoke directly with the leader involved and addressed the matter with honesty. The leader acknowledged the wrongdoing, took full responsibility, and sent a formal letter of apology to the host church. He also stepped down from his leadership role. By God’s grace, the relationship with the host church has been restored. With a newly restructured leadership team in place, we are now prayerfully preparing for another conference to be held this year.
33. Teaching: What experience do you have in a teaching role? How has your teaching style evolved during your ministry?
For the past 19 years, since 2007, I have served as a pastor, faithfully teaching congregations the Bible and prayer. I am also deeply committed to training future pastors and equipping current leaders in ministry. At United Theological Seminary, I lead a Doctor of Ministry focus group, offering academic guidance and spiritual support. I also facilitate M.Div. student engagement, oversee contextual education, and provide mentorship. I believe that the spiritual growth of those who follow rarely exceeds the leader’s own spiritual depth. If a spiritual leader does not grow, those under their care will not grow either. I believe that true spirituality is rooted in prayer and the Word. I am committed to devoting myself to both. Yet my goal is not only to teach, but to multiply leaders—raising up those who will, in turn, teach others and help form a movement grounded in Scripture and prayer.

