Captain Alexander Vargas

A pastor often becomes like family to the people they serve. They walk alongside people during some of the most challenging moments of life. As stated in Essentials of Emotional and Spiritual Care (The Salvation Army, 2013), “Our actions, our words, our listening, our spiritual presence, and our touch become the channel through which God’s presence is manifested in interpersonal relationships.” This beautifully captures the essence of the ministry of presence.

During the events of September 11, 2001, I was working in a high school in the Bronx, New York. Many students and teachers had family members who worked at the World Trade Center. As the parent coordinator, I served as a bridge between parents, teachers, and students. My responsibilities included helping families navigate the educational system, but I also became a source of emotional support during a time of uncertainty and grief.

As a pastor, I’ve faced numerous crises affecting both the people I shepherd and the community I serve. These situations have included homicides, natural deaths, fires, family breakdowns, deportations, depression, illness, and extreme poverty. Through each of these experiences, I’ve learned that a pastor must first be called by God, properly prepared, equipped for ministry, and deeply committed to loving and caring for souls. At the same time, ministry has brought many moments of joy, fulfillment, and hope. Witnessing lives transformed, families restored, and faith strengthened has been among the greatest blessings of serving as a pastor. These experiences remind me that God continues to work powerfully through His people and His church. Being a pastor is both an honor and a privilege. It is a sacred calling to be a messenger of the Kingdom of God.

Looking back, I recognize that there were many differences between my professional role as a parent coordinator and my role as a pastor. However, at the heart of both was the same calling: to be present for people in their time of need. Pastors must learn to listen carefully, offer wise guidance, and recognize the limits of their expertise. Whether serving as a congregational pastor or responding to a community crisis, the ministry of presence remains essential. Through listening, compassion, encouragement, and faithful support, pastors become instruments through whom God’s love and presence are experienced by others.