By Brian Zanzonico
Sanchez, new pastor of the Wesley Methodist Church in Franklin Square, believes in God, who is often looked to for motivation and inspiration.
Sanchez believes in what he calls "blended worship," which melds traditional hymns with contemporary gospel at a service. As at home with a guitar as he is leading a service, "blended worship" is one of several ways Sanchez, who's been the spiritual leader at Wesley Methodist for two months, is hoping to marry tradition with modern needs.
New York Annual Conference
The United Methodist Church
"I love the community," he said. "The people are so nice
also pastor of queens hispanic church
one of his dreams was to come back to NY to become a minister and pursue his doctorate degree
"I prayed for the opportunity," he said. "Then the Conference of NY called. The door opened and I went right through it. I finally got an opportunity."
married to Ivette Candelario and has two children - Jelixa (13) and Abdie (8)
Born in BKLYN
moved to Newark as an infant, and in 1982 moved to Puerto Rico, returning in 2006.
Having a fellowship meetng on Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. He hopes to have two ministries under the same church, English and Hispanic, and become the pastor of both.
Catholics are big in FS, but there aren't many Protestant/Evangelist churches
He's been approached by many Hispanics you see the name on the church and want to come in.
he has new appointment status
he's a pastor 75percent of the time, and in the near future that may be full time.
"I've seen so much growth in the Hispanic community around us," he said. "People love to worship in their own way. I want to to have a place here in Franklin Square, a place where they can worship in their own language."
blended worship, with traditional hymns and contemporary gospel
In the future, he hopes to have a full band perform at services.
"They haven't had this experience yet"
past pastor Kim is in the catskills
Heavenly Brew (2nd and 4th Friday evening of the month, with music, coffee, plays, concerts, open to the community.
"It would be hypocritical of me to forget where I came from and forget the needs of the Hispanic community we have here," he said. "Most work where most people don't want to. They leave their relationship with God and get depressed. They live without hope and I think the only thing thatb helps is to have something to hang onto. An extended family. the church."
Church of Friendly People
The United Methodist Church is what we call a "Connectional church," he said.
looks at needs of each church and its availabilityand pastors make the assignment
"It needs the approval of both conferences and an agreement with the church.
500 Methodist Chruches in the New York Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
In June, the conference met with all clergy for four days. One June 10, 74 new appointments were made in the Long Island East District of the NYAC, which includes churches stretching from Franklin Square to Riverhead.
