Our Founder
Bishop Raymond Rivera
Early Years
Born and raised in the vibrant cultural center of Puerto Rican life in New York, East Harlem, Bishop Raymond Rivera's transformative journey began at the age of fifteen. A chance encounter with the sound of music led him into a Pentecostal service, sparking a profound conversion that set the course for his rapid ascent into ministry.
Ministry and Growth
In the dynamic world of indigenous Pentecostalism, education took a back seat to hands-on experience. Bishop Rivera embraced the challenge, leading his first church from a humble 9 to an impressive 300 within six years. His unconventional path was marked by self-support, aligning with the ethos of the war on poverty era.
Duality of Mission
Bishop Rivera's life mirrored a paradoxical duality – organizing welfare during the day and preaching about heavenly promises at night. His commitment to both personal and structural transformation drove him to seek a theological framework that could encompass these seemingly divergent paths.
Denominational Engagement
Bishop Rivera's expertise in church growth and evangelism led to collaborations with the Reformed Church in America (RCA). His impactful consultancy eventually saw him pastoring a struggling Bronx church and forming a Hispanic Council for the RCA. This experience submerged him into the workings of denominational structures, providing a new perspective on mainstream America.
Educational Pursuits
Driven by the quest for wholeness, Bishop Rivera embarked on a unique educational journey at the New York Theological Center. Despite lacking a bachelor's degree, he persuaded authorities to allow him to study, showcasing the vibrancy of his Pentecostal community. This marked his initial exposure to the liberal theological spectrum.
Challenges of Social Gospel
Bishop Rivera remained steadfast in his commitment to combining Pentecostal piety with a social gospel. His ministry embraced both evangelization and social justice advocacy, navigating the complexities of American civil religion and its impact on the perception of the poor.
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LPAC and Holistic Ministries
In 1993, Bishop Rivera founded LPAC with the goal of fostering holistic ministries in Latino and other congregations. LPAC's Christ-centered and evangelical approach addresses social and economic issues, providing technical assistance to pastors and cultivating Latino leadership.
Our Philosophy
The core philosophy of LPAC centers on the belief that the local congregation, as the "body of Christ," is the instrument of change. This conviction stems from recognizing that the true assets are the Indigenous churches. LPAC, with a totally Latino ( change to- diversified) Board and personnel, empowers congregations while acknowledging the need for collaborative efforts through various programs and institutes.
Explore Our Legacy
Explore the rich legacy of Bishop Raymond Rivera and the ongoing impact of LPAC as it continues to empower communities and develop leaders committed to holistic ministry.