Our Story
A journey of faith, family, and God’s calling.
PASTORAL FAMILY
Live the Transforming Power of Jesus
Pastor Heber Lopez
Senior Pastor
The story of our pastor and his family begins in Holguín, Cuba, where they were both born and raised in Adventist homes. While she lived in the city of Holguín, he grew up in the nearby town of Velasco. From a young age, their lives were shaped by the spiritual influence of their parents and the faith community around them.
Their love story began early: they met as children through church and the Pathfinder Club. At 14, he wrote her a letter, even though she had a boyfriend at the time. But as only God can orchestrate, their paths crossed again when they were 18, and they have been together ever since. Today, they celebrate 29 years of marriage.
They have two sons, Heber Jr. and Haziel, both born in Puerto Rico, who are now 20 and 16 years old. As a family, they have served together in ministry. Meylin has led in music, Pathfinders, and children’s ministry. Heber Jr. has been active in Pathfinders and production ministry, while Haziel has contributed especially with the drums in Pathfinders.
The call to ministry was clear from childhood, and when they began dating, they already knew that this would be their shared path. Both studied theology in Cuba. Meylin continued her studies in secretarial work, and the pastor is completing his second master’s degree in divinity and pastoral ministry.
Their pastoral journey began in 1999 in Manzanillo, Cuba, continuing in 2002 in San Andrés, Potrerillo, and Buenaventura, Cuba. In 2003, God led them to serve in Factor, Bajadero, and Islote, Puerto Rico. Later, in 2007, they ministered in New Song, Dorado, Toa Baja, and Río Lajas, Puerto Rico. In 2011, they followed their pastoral calling to Deltona and DeLand, Florida. In 2017, they served in West Palm Beach and Greenacres, Florida. Finally, in 2025, under God’s divine guidance, they arrived at our church, Revive, in Miami, where they continue to serve with dedication and gratitude, recognizing that every step has been miraculously led by God.
What they enjoy most about serving at Revive is the family atmosphere, the music, the ministries, the leaders, and even the challenges that help everyone grow. They envision a future where the church is even more engaged with the community, with an active discipleship program, two Sabbath services, and expanding leadership.
Outside of ministry, they enjoy photography, going for walks, and spending time with people. Their spiritual renewal happens daily, but they emphasize the importance of the weekly church experience to reconnect with God and with one another. Their guiding principles are faithfulness, respect, and planning, along with a daily desire to bring out the best in every leader.
To those who feel called to ministry, they offer this advice: don’t look to the sides—if God calls you, keep moving forward. Though the road is not easy, ministry offers a unique and lasting satisfaction. Their inspiring verse is Joshua 1:9:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”