BEN STILWELL-HERNANDEZ

Senior Pastor

Hometown:  Jackson, Tennessee

Family Info:  Husband to Keila (since 2003), Father to Jeshua (11) and Isabella (5). Keila and I met while I was a volunteer missionary in Puerto Rico. She is an Occupational Therapist who loves Jesus more than she loves me (that is a good thing!). Our family is one that revolves around service to Jesus and trusting Jesus for everything.

When did you join the staff of Aldersgate? July 1, 2020

What did you do before joining Aldersgate? I have served local churches in ministry since 2002. Having served in Puerto Rico, Tennessee, & Florida. Most recently, I served as Senior Pastor to Homestead First United Methodist Church in Homestead, Florida. I have degrees from Lambuth University (B.S. Religion) and Evangelical Seminary of Puerto Rico (M.Div.). I am currently studying for my Doctors in Ministry at Asbury Theological Seminary.

What do you do for fun? I am a private pilot and enjoy flying airplanes – single engine – land. I want to learn how to fly remote controlled airplanes too. I also enjoy SCUBA diving and catching fish, notice I didn’t say fishing. My dad LOVES to fish, I enjoy catching. I enjoy taking my son to sporting events as he loves it!

Favorite books?  Christian: Dangerous Prayers – Craig Groeschel Secular: Start With Why – Simon Sinek In the Bible: tie between Romans and John

Who has influenced you the most in ministry/life?  My parents taught me faith, real faith. They never gave up and have a faith in God that inspires me to this day. They taught me perseverance, devotion, and service above self. I have been blessed to have several mentors in my life who have helped me in different seasons of my life. Some of those are: Adam Hamilton, Mike Slaughter, Jorge Acevedo, & Dick Wills. Each are giants in my life of faith, each have left an indelible mark on me as a person and a pastor.