Dear HUMC Family,
I write to you with deep joy and humility as I step into this new season of ministry with you. My name is Rev. Dr. Josh Lopez-Reyes, and it is truly an honor to be joining your beloved community.
Over the past couple of decades, my journey in faith and leadership has taken many forms—from serving at Westwood UMC and on staff with the California-Pacific Conference, to co-founding the Echo Park Immigration Center (EPIC), where we’ve built spiritual and social spaces of belonging with immigrant families. Each of these experiences has shaped not just how I lead, but how I listen, learn, and walk alongside others.
I was raised in an immigrant family and community here in California, and from an early age, I came to understand ministry as a shared commitment that is about building beloved community. I’ve been blessed by a village of mentors and supporters who’ve helped me pursue theological education, earning a BA in Theology, an MA in Transformational Urban Leadership, an M.Div., and most recently, a Doctor of Ministry in Church Transformation.
But more than titles or degrees, I come to HUMC offering my full self—my faith, my questions, my story, and my steadfast belief in justice, compassion, and spiritual growth.
A few fun facts about me:
I’m trilingual (Spanish, Portuguese, and English), which reflects my multicultural roots and passion for building bridges across communities.
I come from a family of storytellers and activists and have always believed that faith must move us toward love in action.
My wife and life partner, Grecia, and I are joyfully preparing to welcome our first child into the world.
And—I’m a total foodie. So if you ever want to grab a meal or need restaurant recommendations in our beautiful city, I’m your person!
I’m inspired by HUMC’s long legacy of welcome, inclusivity, and public witness. I see your community as a place where the Gospel is lived out boldly, and I’m excited to join you as we continue this witness under the leadership of Rev. Hannah and your many amazing clergy and lay leaders.
Together, I hope we’ll pray, protest, break bread, cry, laugh, and live into the fullness of life in Christ. Please know that I’m eager to get to know you—whether in worship, over coffee, or through a casual conversation after church.
With gratitude and great hope,
Rev. Dr. Josh Lopez-Reyes