My mission
To walk alongside others with love.
I want to help people know Jesus and grow in faith. Through ministry and writing, I create spaces to listen honestly and discover how to live God’s love in everyday life.
About me
I’m Joe. I’m glad you’re here.
I’m Joe M. Mercado-Rivera, a Puerto Rican author and Methodist pastor. I write and share my faith from the questions that stay with me, too.
I have needed to heal, begin again, and learn to walk with God one step at a time. Much of what you’ll find here grows out of that journey.
A little of my story ↓
My vision
A faith we live out.
I dream of communities where people can ask questions, find care, and recognize their dignity. I believe in a church that makes disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, and in stories that help us see one another with greater compassion.
A little of my story
The calling has been shaping me, too.
I grew up in the Methodist Church of Puerto Rico. At 18, an Encuentro in Jayuya deeply shaped my faith and calling. At 23, I began serving as a pastor.
Along that journey, I have also known doubt and the need to begin again. I have learned to depend on God’s grace and listen more closely to those around me. That experience shapes the way I pastor and write.
What I hope to share with you
May you find something of your story in my pages.
My novels explore love and the decisions that change us. In my reflections and conversations, I return to questions of faith. My hope is that something you read or hear here helps you feel accompanied and look at your life with hope.
Thank you for making room for my stories. I’m glad we can meet here.