Ferdinand V Melendres

Empowering Immigrants Ferdinand V Melendres

In building a philosophical foundation for his book, Dr. Melendres properly merged the current reality of ethnic migration with the mandate stated in the Great Commission. This is an important starting point for developing a doctrinally sound strategy for leadership development that recognizes the practical challenges brought about by the uniqueness of cross-cultural ministry. The strategy that he wrote in this book reflects a good grasp of synthesizing for every pastor's personal calling and giftedness with the mandate of the church community, be it local or global. The implications are clearly adaptable for the existing local churches as well as the ongoing efforts to plant missional churches around the world. Furthermore, it is important to take into consideration how he emphasized the role of small groups and mentoring as vital avenues for developing leaders. By presenting his congregation in New York as a working model, it is certain that many local as well as immigrant churches will benefit from it. Dr. Melendres has done a great job by providing this work for the benefit of the body of Christ. His work is an impressive testament to his commitment to biblical scholarship and practical Christian ministry. Dr. Ed S. Miciano, Assistant Professor of Biblical Theology, Patten University: Oakland, California. He is also the Senior Pastor and District Overseer of Word International Ministries, Northern California District. Dr. Ferdinand V. Melendres is the Senior Pastor of Word International Ministries, New York, USA. He is the author of My Country's Godly Heritage, and speaker in various conferences about mission, leadership development, and bible engagement in many countries. He pioneered the ministries of Word International Ministries in Israel, New York, and Massachusetts. He studied in the Philippines, Israel, and finished his doctorate degree at New York Theological Seminary, New York. Empowering Immigrants received the highest award of "The Excellence in Ministry Award" at NYTS on 2014.