Pastor Joel Hernández was born and raised in New York City, an upbringing that deeply shaped his heart for people and community. Prior to entering full-time ministry, he established a foundational background in Law Enforcement—a season of public service that instilled in him a profound commitment to protecting, serving, and guiding others through life's challenges.

Today, he serves as the Senior Pastor of Full Gospel Church of Island Park, a beautiful coastal community located just outside New York City on the South Shore of Long Island, NY. For nearly a decade, he has faithfully led the congregation with a gentle heart, a deep commitment to Spirit-empowered ministry, and a passion for fostering a welcoming environment grounded in truth and grace. With more than 25 years of faithful service, Pastor Joel brings a wealth of ministry experience, having served as a Youth Pastor, Associate Pastor, Church Elder, and Prison Ministry Worker.

Beyond the local Church, he carries a heart of service for the broader Body of Christ. As an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God, he serves as the Executive Presbyter at Large overseeing the entire State of New York for Intercultural Ministries, as well as an NYMN Chaplain. Passionate about equipping, encouraging, and raising up the next generation of faith leaders, Pastor Joel also serves as the Facilitator for the LEAD School of Ministry (LEADSOM) and has spent many years directing and teaching at both the Berean School of the Bible and the New York School of Ministry (NYSOM).

At the center of his ministry is a profound passion for Christ, followed closely by his devotion to family, authentic connection, and the life-changing, healing sanctuary found through the work of the Holy Spirit. He shares his life and heart in ministry with his wife, Lydia, to whom he has been happily married for 40 years. Together, they are blessed with two adult children and three wonderful grandchildren, and they feel a deep joy in nurturing a warm, welcoming, multicultural, and Christ-centered Church home where individuals can grow in their walk in Christ.

Rev. Veraliz Jordan is licensed with the Assemblies of God and she is a graduate of Southeastern Bible College. She serves as the Worship & Media Pastor at Full Gospel Church of Island Park, where she leads the congregation into heartfelt, Spirit‑filled worship and oversees the church’s media ministry. Her leadership reflects a deep love for God’s presence, a commitment to excellence in worship, and a passion for equipping others to use their gifts for the Kingdom. Pastor Veraliz is known for her joyful spirit, creative vision, and dedication to building a worship culture that honors Jesus and strengthens the church family. She ministers alongside her husband, Al‑Amir Jordan, as part of the church’s pastoral team.

Pastor Antoine Williamson‑Saunders serves as a youth ministry leader within the New York Ministry Network’s Youth Alive initiative, where he equips students and leaders across the state with a deep passion for evangelism, discipleship, and campus outreach. His ministry reflects a strong commitment to raising up the next generation of Spirit‑empowered leaders. Additionally, Pastor Antoine is an Army veteran and a medical chaplain. We are delighted to welcome Pastor Antoine as the newest member of the FGC ministerial team, along with his devoted wife, Peggy.