ABEL LARA
Big Bear,CA
Summary
Seasoned Pastor with 29 years of experience in leading congregational worship. Proven ability to increase engagement by 30%, produce impactful music ministry programs, and guide teams towards excellence. Adept in event coordination, and focused on community enrichment.
As a Pastor offering 29 years of experience in pastoral care and spiritual leadership to growing church. Committed to creating thriving community and guiding individuals transformed by the gospel. Successful background in organizational leadership, ministry program development and mission-oriented strategic planning.
Overview
2
2
Languages
1
1
Certification
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Youth Guidance Director
Youth For Christ
Oxnard, CA
01.1993 - 11.1996
- Developed and implemented strategic programs to engage youth in community activities.
- Secured partnerships with local organizations to expand resources and opportunities for youth engagement.
Associate Pastor
Ventura United Methodist Church
Ventura, CA
01.1993 - 01.1996
- Supported senior pastor in developing impactful sermon series, resulting in increased attendance and spiritual growth.
- Led worship services, incorporating diverse theological perspectives to engage the congregation.
Lead Pastor
Filmore United Methodist Church
Fillmore, CA
01.1996 - 01.2001
- Led congregation in worship services, fostering community engagement and spiritual growth.
- Developed and implemented educational programs, enhancing member participation and theological understanding.
Pastor
Paramount United Methodist Church
Paramount, CA
02.2001 - 02.2006
- Led congregational worship services, fostering community engagement and spiritual growth.
- Provided pastoral care through counseling and support, addressing individual and family needs.
Lead Pastor
La Plaza United Methodist Church
Los Angeles, CA
02.2006 - 02.2013
- Developed partnerships with local organizations to increase community impact and expand outreach efforts.
- Led congregation in spiritual growth through engaging sermons and worship services.
Pastor
Norwalk United Methodist Church
Norwalk, CA
02.2013 - 06.2019
- Led congregational worship services, fostering community engagement and spiritual growth.
- Provided pastoral care through counseling and support, addressing individual and family needs.
Education
Master of Divinity -
Claremont School of Theology
Claremont, CA05-2002
Bachelor's in Biblical Studies -
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA05-1994
Associate Degree in Biblical Studies -
Latin America Bible College
La Puente, CA05-1990
Skills
- Leadership
- Worship Planning
- Public Speaking
- Event Coordination
- Creative Design
Certification
- Certified Ministerial Leadership
- Certification in Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Certificate in Pastoral Studies
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Pastor
Norwalk United Methodist Church
02.2013 - 06.2019
Lead Pastor
La Plaza United Methodist Church
02.2006 - 02.2013
Pastor
Paramount United Methodist Church
02.2001 - 02.2006
Lead Pastor
Filmore United Methodist Church
01.1996 - 01.2001
Youth Guidance Director
Youth For Christ
01.1993 - 11.1996
Associate Pastor
Ventura United Methodist Church
01.1993 - 01.1996
Master of Divinity -
Claremont School of Theology
Bachelor's in Biblical Studies -
Azusa Pacific University
Associate Degree in Biblical Studies -
Latin America Bible College