Our Team

Manuel Islas was born and raised with a rich heritage of faith—shaped by his mother’s ministry roots in Puerto Rico and the vibrant Mexican traditions of his father. This beautiful blend of cultures inspires the way he leads, bringing together Latino spirituality, heartfelt worship, and creative expression in his ministry.

From a young age, Manuel sensed God’s call on his life. At just eight years old, he began serving as a teacher, and later reaffirmed that calling as he pursued theological studies at the Caribbean Theological University. Early on, he developed a passion for Christian education and pastoral care, nurturing both leadership and deep spiritual disciplines.

As a young adult, he continued his ministry within the Methodist Church in Puerto Rico, while also earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Ana G. Méndez University. Today, Manuel lives in New Jersey and serves as a candidate for ordained ministry in the United Methodist Church of Greater New Jersey. He is also completing his Master of Divinity at Drew University (Class of 2025).

For six years, he served as pastor of an urban ministry at Iglesia Nuevo Nacimiento (“New Birth”) in Paterson, NJ, where he walked alongside a diverse community in faith and transformation.

He is currently serving at the United Methodist Church of the Rockaways (UMCR), a multicultural and reconciling church. There, he works alongside a passionate leadership team to reach people with God’s grace and to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

With over 30 years of experience as a leader and servant, Manuel has been actively involved in many ministries and community efforts. He is passionate about worship, the creative arts, preaching, and teaching—always seeking to inspire others to draw closer to God.

At the heart of his ministry is a deep commitment to faith, justice, inclusivity, and transformation—within the church and beyond—so that together, we may reflect God’s love in the world.