Leadership

Pastors & Staff

Rev. Dr. David Rivera Jr    &
Rev. Dr. Jessica Rivera

Lead Pastors

David Rivera Jr has been in ministry since 2008. He was ordained as a Reverend in 2011 and served as the Director of Ministers for two years. He was then recognized as an Evangelist by Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal, M.I. Dr. David also served as an instructor for Mizpa Christian University between 2010 – 2013. In 2013, Pastor David served as the Program Director for Residential Shelter programs in California, Texas, and Florida where he and his team have reunified over 6,000 unaccompanied children with a sponsor in the United States.

Presently, Dr. David is the Founder and Executive Director of Loving Children (a home licensed by the Department of Children & Families for male teens who are diagnosed with mental health disabilities, victims of abuse, neglect, or abandonment). Since 2015, Dr. David and his wife have empowered and assisted, both spiritually and physically, over 800 young men. In 2016 Dr. David was elected as the Chairman for the Provider Task Force serving children in foster care for Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties. In November 2025 Dr. David and his wife were installed as the lead Pastors for Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal, M.I., now known as TAMPA CITY CHURCH in Tampa, FL.

Dr. David Rivera Jr and his wife, Jessica Rivera were recognized by the Tampa Bay Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for the Hispanic Prestige Award in 2020. Dr. David and his wife were also recognized by the Movimiento Internacional organization as Servants of the Year in 2021.

Dr. David is a native of Jersey City, NJ and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and in 2022 obtained his Doctorate Degree in Christian Counseling.

As a sought-after speaker, Dr. David trains and equips leaders across the nation, from church boards to nonprofit executives, on how to lead with courage, resolve conflict with clarity, and build cultures where people can flourish.
 
When he’s not writing or speaking, Dr. David enjoys music and sports and is known for his dynamic preaching style and relevant application of Scripture to everyday life. He and his wife Jessica, have been married since 1995. They have been blessed with three children and in August of 2018, became grandparents.

Yamilitza Charneco

Board Member - Secretary

My name is Yamilitza Charneco. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico and moved to Florida in 2016, where I began attending TCC and met my husband. I am very family-oriented and love spending time with my parents and siblings.
I’ve been married to my amazing husband, Jason Charneco, for nine years, and it has been such a blessing to serve God alongside him. I gave my life to the Lord at the age of 15 and have been serving Him ever since.
I hold an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies and a certification in Accounting, and I’ve worked in the legal field for the past eight years. I also serve as the Secretary of TCC.
Fun fact: I’m part of the Sublime Gracia praise dance team, I love Disney, and if you mention traveling, I’ll probably have the itinerary ready within two hours.

Stephanie Cotto

Board Member - Sub Secretary

Hello, my brothers and sisters! I’m Stephanie Cotto, NJ-born, Tampa-raised! I hold a Bachelor’s in Fashion Design and Merchandising and currently serve as a Supervisor for Patient Access in one of the busiest hospitals in Tampa Bay. God has blessed me with 5 Godchildren, a wonderful family, great friends, and an awesome church family. I’ve been part of TCC for 9 years and have served in Ministry for 6 of those. My favorite verse that centers me often is “Be still and know that I AM GOD.” Psalm 46:10.
Fun Fact: I plan to get my motorcycle license. Vrmm Vrmm!!

Elizabeth (Nina) Sarmiento

Board Member - Sub Treasurer

I have served as Sub-Treasurer for the past three years and have been a dedicated volunteer in the Security Department for eight years. Professionally, I work as a Relationship Banker at Truist Bank, where I enjoy helping clients build financial stability and reach their goals. I love traveling and experiencing new places and cultures.
Fun Fact: I’m the only left-handed one out of ten siblings!

Rev. Dr. Joseph Felix

Board Member - Vocal

I have been married to my beautiful wife Debbie for 17 years. We were ordained in May 2011 and served as associate pastors at Manantial de Vida church in Brooklyn, NY, until we relocated to Florida in 2017.
Though we’re AARP eligible (that's our secret), we love serving in ministry, teaching, and preaching, like the DURACELL battery bunny, we just keep going and going.

Rev. Edwin Rivera

Board Member - Vocal

For over 30 years, I have walked faithfully as a devoted husband, loving father, and now proud grandfather but above all, I am a servant of the Lord first.  
I currently serve as a Professor at MIZPA Christian University, pouring biblical wisdom in theology and spiritual guidance into the next generation. I've also committed many years to enhancing the church experience, working diligently behind the scenes to ensure excellence in worship and help create an atmosphere where people can encounter God.
Fun Fact: He enjoys riding his Harley, playing dominoes with his family and working with the church sound.

P.s. Don’t let the serious face fool you… He’s full of humor and fun to be with. 

Rev. Maria Ramos

Board Member - Vocal

I gave my life to the Lord on December 12, 1979, at 8:30 pm, and I have never been separated from my Lord during these 46 years.
I am passionate about learning more and more from the Lord every day, evangelizing, teaching his word, helping others, and serving God in spirit and in truth. To love and testify that I have been called the daughter of God.
Fun Fact: Being newly converted and without extensive knowledge, I began to evangelize and told this person that Paul walked on the waters, but since that person knew less than I did, he believed me. Then I understood that it was not Paul but Peter. I hope I can find him one day and set the record straight.  :-)

Daniel Estrada

Board Member - Vocal

I have been married for 30 years and am the father of two daughters. With more than 15 years of ministry experience, I currently serve as a professor at Mizpa Christian University, a role I have held for the past 8 years. My journey combines ministry and teaching to develop future leaders.
Fun Fact: Outside of my work, I enjoy cooking as a creative and relaxing outlet.

Rev. Aishka Jimenez

Board Member - Vocal

I've been happily married to Luis Jiménez, the love of my life, for 19 years. Although I grew up religious, I strayed for 15 years; I reconciled with Jesus at 33 and haven't looked back since.
I'm a financial consultant with 20 years of experience in the stock market, passionate about helping people build stability and a legacy.
Fun Fact: Before advising on investments, I was a flight attendant for American Airlines, which sparked my love of travel that I now share with my husband. 🥰

Rev. Will & Yessie Mendez

Youth & Young Adult Pastors

Pastors Will and Yessie Mendez are passionate about seeing the next generation encounter Jesus, discover their identity in Christ, and boldly live out their faith. With over 15 years of ministry experience and serving as pastors since 2022, they are committed to building authentic community and equipping youth and young adults to thrive spiritually and practically in everyday life.
Through biblical teaching, mentorship, and meaningful connection, their heart is to raise up leaders who will impact their schools, workplaces, and families for the Kingdom of God.
Fun fact: When they’re not in ministry, they love spontaneous coffee/chai tea dates at Disney world.

Tashia Nicole Zeno

Worship Team - Director

Loving mom of three with a mission to teach the next generation how to live for Christ without compromise.  I have a deep passion for Worship and Ministries of Mercy. For 25 years, I attended church on and off, but over the last two years, I’ve truly encountered God in a life-changing way, and I’m never going back to who I used to be.
Fun Fact: I am a master of being Bougie on a Budget!

Dennis Murillo

Worship Team - Director

My name is Dennis Murillo, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. I’m a proud husband and father to two beautiful girls who inspire me every day. I fell in love with music — especially the drums — at just 10 years old, and that passion has never stopped growing. My journey led me to Boys Harbor Music Conservatory of Harlem and later to Nyack College School of Music, where I deepened both my craft and calling. What began as a love for rhythm has become something far greater — God has transformed that gift into true worship. Today, music isn’t just what I do; it’s how I serve, how I express my faith, and how I pour into others. Worship and serving the Lord are not only my passion — they are my purpose
Fun Fact: Big sports fan, love cars, and board games. Game nights are as serious as the Super Bowl.  I'm very competitive.

Stephanie Barona

Photography - Director

Hi, I’m Stephy! I was born and raised in Quito, Ecuador, and at 18 I moved away from home to pursue a degree in Criminology/Criminal Justice. Looking back, I can clearly see God’s hand in that decision. I now work with survivors and victims of Human Trafficking, and I truly believe God placed me here to pour out His love, compassion, and justice into this community.
I’ve been singing on the worship team with my grandma since I was little. Worship has always been part of my heart and calling. When I moved to Florida, God also sparked a new passion in me: photography. I fell in love with capturing moments that last forever and telling stories through a lens. However, no matter what I do, my goal is to always love and show kindness to others.
Fun fact: When I’m not singing or behind the camera, you’ll most likely find me at the gym!

Yury Hidalgo

Men's Ministry - Director

The Lord blessed me with my wife, Claudia, the queen of my life, and we've been married since 2010. I also have three princesses and a champion—my beloved children, my family, my blessing.
I surrendered my life to the Lord in 2013 in this church, and since then, everything has changed. I feel so grateful to God for all He has done and continues to do.
Fun Fact: I'm passionate about people and making them laugh, although sometimes I don't quite manage it.

Barbara Oliver

Education / Connect Groups - Director

Originally from Puerto Rico, I have been joyfully married for 20 years to my wonderful husband, Rev. Rafael Oliver. We are blessed with two incredible sons, 16 years apart, who are truly my greatest joy and accomplishment.
Twenty-one years ago, I gave my life to Jesus — the most transformative decision I have ever made. Since that day, my heart has been devoted to serving Him and helping others grow in their faith.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and previously worked in cancer research. I also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Theology, as teaching and studying the Word of God is one of my deepest passions.
Fun Fact: As a family, we own a Karate Academy, which we consider our personal ministry — a place where we build character, discipline, leadership, and faith in the lives of others.

Beatriz Torres

Outreach (Pan Del Cielo) - Director

My name is Beatriz Torres I am a mother of four children and blessed with four beautiful grandchildren. In 2008, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, and it has been the best decision I have ever made. Since that day, my life has been transformed. I serve as a Chaplain for IDPMI and Trayendo Esperanza, and I am also an ordained chaplain with Trayendo Esperanza. I graduated from Mizpa with a Doctorate in Counseling. My passion is to continue serving the Lord, helping others build a personal relationship with Him, and reaching out to the community to share the Gospel and let people know that God loves them. I have learned more about God’s Word and His unconditional love. Every day we continue learning something new and growing deeper in our relationship with Him. My mission is to let people know that God loves them, that there is hope, and that, through Jesus Christ, there is salvation and no judgment. I will continue serving, loving, and sharing His truth wherever He sends me.
Fun Fact: I love spending time with my family and going to the beach and bike riding and going on vacations!

Steven Rodriguez

Production Ministry - Director

I am blessed to be married to Ashely, who is serving as the 2026 Women’s Ministry President. We have two children, Naomi and Evan, and we truly cherish our time serving together as a family.
Ministry Journey: I have been a member of our church since 2013. My path began on the Security Team, which eventually led to a transition into the Media Department, where I currently serve. It has been a privilege to see the church grow from these different perspectives over the years.
Work Profession: Professionally, I have worked in the insurance industry for over seven years, specializing in Medicare, Health, and Life plans. I find great fulfillment in helping individuals and families navigate their coverage options.
Fun Fact: I’m an avid photography enthusiast! Whether I'm capturing family milestones or exploring local landscapes, I usually have my camera ready to find the perfect shot.

Jason Charneco

Trayendo Esperanza Ministers  - Director

Jason Charneco has faithfully served in ministry for over 20 years, much of that time in leadership. He currently serves as the Director of Ministers at Trayendo Esperanza. Jason and his wife, Yamilitza, have been married for nine years and previously served together as Youth Pastors for five years. Yamilitza serves as a Chaplain, and Jason is an ordained Reverend. Professionally, Jason has been part of Centene Corporation for over 12 years. Jason enjoys spending time with his family and riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.