In this truly heart stirring episode, Pastor Mel candidly shares his testimony about rejection from his parents, hurt from a church leader, and many family sufferings along the way.
Where is God in our pain and suffering?
Do the tears in our pain and suffering blind us from the goodness of God?
When do we know when it is time to seek professional psychological help?
Pastor Mel’s faith journey started early in life. He gravitated towards the church as a child, after his parents divorced. As a teenager, at the age of 16, he served as a youth director. He became an associate pastor by the age 19.
In 2000, Pastor Mel relocated to Orlando, Florida, where he was instrumental in planting six churches and campuses. Recently, he served as the Lead Pastor of River City Church in St. Charles, Illinois, where he led with vision, compassion, and a heart for service.
Pastor Mel has more than 25 years of ministerial experience. He is a dynamic speaker, seasoned trainer, recording artist, author, and servant leader with a passion for empowering others. Specializing in ministerial leadership and family and marriage dynamics, Pastor Mel is committed to helping individuals, couples, and teams grow into stronger leaders, pastors, parents, and spouses.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Ministerial Leadership with a Minor in Pastoral Leadership from Southeastern University, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching and Leading from Asbury Theological Seminary. With this strong academic foundation, Pastor Mel integrates deep theological insight with practical leadership strategies across all areas of ministry and life.
Pastor Mel specializes in multicultural and cross-cultural ministry, equipping churches and leaders to navigate cultural complexity with wisdom and grace. Whether through preaching, teaching, coaching, or conference speaking, his message is marked by authenticity, clarity, and a deep love for the Church.
Pastor Mel’s commitment to family is at the heart of his ministry. A devoted husband to Jeanette, a proud father of four children, and a grandfather to his precious granddaughter, his family continues to inspire and motivate him. Their love and support drive his passion for creating spaces where others can encounter God’s transformative love and grace.
Pastor Mel is the author of the book, Seeing God Through The Tears: A Journey of Faith Through Grief and Suffering.
Thank you, Pastor Mel.
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Mel Oquendo (@meloquendo) • Instagram photos and videos
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Suggested Reading:
E. M. Bounds on Prayer (National Bestseller) by
