Alvarado, Texas, May 28, 2026 – The Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists’ Executive Committee members elected Ismael A. Castillo, Ph.D., as president of the Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Alvarado, Texas. The committee met on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the Southwestern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Burleson, Texas, to interview and elect the next Texas Conference president.
Castillo is a seasoned pastor, educator and administrator with nearly 30 years of experience in ministry leadership within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He recently served as vice president for Multicultural Ministries at the Southwestern Union Conference in Burleson, Texas, following five years as vice president for Hispanic Ministries & Spanish Evangelism in the Texas Conference.
Castillo brings extensive expertise in pastoral placement, evangelism strategy, conflict resolution and leadership development, with a strong emphasis on serving diverse, multicultural communities. He has a proven track record of strengthening church growth, supporting pastors and expanding ministry impact through both traditional and digital evangelism, including the development of Spanish-language media and social content.
His pastoral background includes serving as a senior pastor in Houston, a youth pastor in Keene, Texas, and leadership roles across multiple congregations and districts. He has also contributed as an educator, ministry trainer and media host, while actively participating in key conference committees and leadership development initiatives.
Castillo’s leadership philosophy centers on service, discipleship, education and relational leadership, with a focus on engaging families and young people in mission. He is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds advanced degrees in theology and education, including a Ph.D. in Curricular Administration.
“Dr. Castillo is a thoughtful and experienced leader whose commitment to service, mission and multicultural ministry has consistently strengthened the Seventh-day Adventist Church,” Elton DeMoraes, Southwestern Union Conference president and Texas Conference presidential search committee chair, shared. “His vision for communication, evangelism and unity will enhance the Texas Conference mission.” Please join me in welcoming Dr. Castillo as the next president of the Texas Conference. I know he will appreciate your prayers as he assumes this new role effective immediately.”
–Texas Conference Public Relations
