Our leadership

A team that serves with love, vision and a shepherd’s heart.

Demo photo of the pastor

Senior Pastor & First Lady

Rev. Ruben Serrano & Pastor Nilsa Serrano

Pastor Ruben and First Lady Nilsa lead our church with love, vision, and a shepherd’s heart. They are dedicated to nurturing our spiritual growth, building a strong and caring community, and inspiring each person to live out their faith with boldness.

A life of faith and service

A calling to serve

Rev. Rubén Serrano is the Senior Pastor of Light of the World Assembly of God in Rochester, New York. His journey reflects years of preparation, perseverance and dedication to serving God and people. Beyond the positions he has held, his calling has been to proclaim the Gospel, teach the Scriptures and walk alongside families with a pastor’s heart.

His family: a partner in the calling

On December 17, 1994, he married his beloved wife, Nilsa Correa, in Añasco, Puerto Rico. Together they have built a family blessed with three daughters, Génesis, Paola and Anais, and the joy of being grandparents. Pastor Nilsa has been his partner in life and in ministry. Their walk together reminds us that behind pastoral service there is a family that shares efforts, prayers, joys and sacrifices.

Academic and professional background

From 1992 to 1993 he studied Computer Programming at the Instituto de Banca. In 1993 he graduated from the Puerto Rico Police Academy and later studied Criminal Justice at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla Campus. His desire to serve better in the Lord’s work also led him to prepare theologically: in 1997 he graduated from Colegios Bíblicos Internacionales. He is currently continuing his studies at Northeastern Seminary at Roberts Wesleyan University.

Ministry experience

Over the years he has served in many roles: Superintendent of Bible Schools; Bible Institute teacher; Youth Pastor from 1997 to 2000; Executive Treasurer and Executive Secretary at the Iglesia Pentecostal MI; Associate Pastor and Assistant Pastor; and evangelist and missionary for the Concilio Pentecostal MI in the Midwest Region. He also received pastoral credentials from that council. Each stage was part of a process of learning and service that strengthened his calling.

The call to Rochester

He arrived in Rochester, New York in 2012. In 2013 he began serving as Co-Pastor of Light of the World Assembly of God, and since 2016 he has served as Senior Pastor. His ministry has focused on preaching the Word, making disciples, caring for the congregation and preparing new generations to serve Christ.

Service to the church and to Christian education

Besides his work in the local church, he serves as Presbyter of the Northwest Section of the Hispanic Eastern District of the Assemblies of God, supporting pastors and congregations. He is also the Principal of the Bible Institute, Syracuse Branch, helping prepare students and future ministry leaders.

A legacy that continues

We celebrate the years of ministry of Rev. Rubén Serrano and God’s faithfulness at every stage of his life. We also honor Pastor Nilsa and their family, who are an essential part of this story. His desire remains to see lives transformed by the Gospel, families strengthened and new generations raised up for Christ. May the Lord continue to renew his strength and guide every step of his calling.

And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.

Jeremiah 3:15 (NKJV)

Our leadership team

People who serve the congregation with dedication and care.

  • Demo photo: Jose O’Farril

    Jose O’Farril

    Co-Pastor

    Pastor Jose serves with wisdom and compassion, leading our new members and elders. He offers spiritual guidance, supports our church leadership, and empowers our elders to serve the congregation with love and faithfulness.

  • Demo photo: Yolanda Gonzalez

    Yolanda Gonzalez

    Treasurer

    Yolanda manages our church’s finances with integrity, care, and faithfulness. Her dedication ensures that our resources are used wisely to support our mission and the continued growth of our ministry.

  • Demo photo: Zuleima Martinez

    Zuleima Martinez

    Administrative Secretary

    Known to all of us as “Zuly,” she provides essential administrative support with dedication and care. She keeps our church running smoothly and is a friendly, helpful presence to staff and members alike.

  • Demo photo: Luis Bruno

    Luis Bruno

    Men’s Ministry Leader

    Affectionately known as “Bruno,” he leads our men’s ministry with passion and purpose. He encourages men to grow in faith, character, and community, and his heart is to see every man walk boldly in his calling and be strengthened through brotherhood and discipleship.

  • Demo photo: Yaricel Beatriz

    Yaricel Beatriz

    Women’s Ministry Leader

    Yaricel leads our women’s ministry with grace and strength, creating a welcoming space where women can grow spiritually, build lasting friendships, and walk confidently in their God-given purpose. Her heart is to empower women through faith, fellowship, and discipleship.

  • Demo photo: Julissa Gonzalez

    Julissa Gonzalez

    Youth Leader

    Julissa leads our youth ministry with passion, creativity, and a deep love for the next generation. She is committed to helping young people grow in their faith, find belonging in community, and discover their purpose in Christ.

  • Demo photo: Will & Giovanna Morales

    Will & Giovanna Morales

    Young Adult Leaders

    Will and Giovanna lead our young adult ministry with warmth, creativity, and a deep care for those navigating life’s big decisions. They are devoted to building a community where young adults can ask honest questions, grow in their faith, and find the support to walk confidently in their calling.

  • Demo photo: Lupita O’Farril

    Lupita O’Farril

    Kids Ministry Leader

    Known to us as “Lupita,” she leads our Kids Ministry with joy, creativity, and a deep love for children. She is passionate about providing a fun, safe, and faith-filled environment where kids can learn about Jesus and build strong foundations for life.

  • Demo photo: Anais Serrano

    Anais Serrano

    Worship Leader

    Anais leads our Worship Ministry with a heart of devotion and a passion for God’s presence. Through music and praise, she helps create an atmosphere where people can encounter God and worship freely.

  • Demo photo: Alex Morales

    Alex Morales

    Music Director

    Alex directs our team of musicians with passion and skill, guiding rehearsals so that worship is heartfelt and uplifting. He nurtures musical talent and helps cultivate an atmosphere where we can worship God in spirit and in truth.

  • Demo photo: Olga Quintana

    Olga Quintana

    Ushers Leader

    Olga leads our Usher Team with warmth and hospitality, making sure every visitor and member feels valued and at home. Her heart is to create a friendly, inviting atmosphere where everyone is greeted with kindness and encouragement.

  • Demo photo: Jose Gonzalez

    Jose Gonzalez

    Security Team Leader

    Jose leads our Security Team with dedication and vigilance, providing a safe and secure environment for all members and visitors so everyone can worship and participate with peace of mind.

  • Demo photo: Emmanuel Pina

    Emmanuel Pina

    Media Team Leader

    Emmanuel leads our Media Ministry with technical expertise and creativity, ensuring smooth and engaging worship experiences. Through sound, visuals, and live streaming, he helps our church connect both in person and online.