08/13/2026
New Student Minister unlocked 👀
God Is at Work: Welcoming the Pacheco Family
There are moments in the life of a church when it becomes especially clear that God is at work. The arrival of Fernando Pacheco as Snyder Memorial’s new Student Minister is one of those moments.
Fernando officially begins his ministry at Snyder this Sunday, August 16, and I am excited to welcome Fernando, Brittany, Judah, and Ava to our church family.
I first met Fernando several months ago through Vince Garcia. From our first conversation, I was impressed by his character, humility, love for Christ, and genuine passion for students. As the search process continued, that impression only deepened. Fernando brings a unique combination of spiritual maturity, theological preparation, leadership experience, and a genuine heart for people.
Fernando holds a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership, with an emphasis in Pastoral Care and Counseling, from Talbot School of Theology. He has experience in church planting, evangelism, discipleship, and student ministry. Before entering vocational ministry, Fernando served honorably for eight years in the United States Marine Corps. He has also ministered to teenagers and families connected to Fort Bragg and currently serves as chaplain for the Fayetteville Woodpeckers.
His ministry has taken him beyond our community as well, with mission experience in India, China, Uganda, and Nicaragua. These experiences have helped shape his passion for the Great Commission and his desire to help students become lifelong followers of Jesus.
Throughout the search process, our Student Minister Search Committee, Personnel Committee, ministerial staff, and deacon body gained tremendous confidence that God was leading Fernando to Snyder.
This Sunday, Fernando will be the subject of our God at Work message and interview. We will hear more of his story, learn about his calling, and get to know the heart of the man God has brought to Snyder to lead our students.
At the conclusion of each service, Fernando, Brittany and their kids will be in the Gathering Hall so that everyone can introduce themselves and personally welcome the Pacheco family. Please take a few minutes to stop by and let them know how glad we are to have them at Snyder.
You are also encouraged to bring a handwritten note and/or gift card as a welcome and encouragement to the Pacheco family. A simple expression of kindness can mean so much as they begin this new chapter of ministry.
I am grateful for the way God has led the Pacheco family to Snyder, and I am eager to see what He will do through their ministry among our students and throughout our church family.
God is at work. And this Sunday, we get to celebrate it together.
Looking forward,
Blake
