Pastor Marino Mendez is a force of nature when it comes to sharing the gospel—bold, unwavering, and relentless in his mission. He doesn’t just preach; he builds. What began as a simple calling has grown into a movement, transforming entire communities. Where others see hardship, Marino sees opportunity—raising up schools, churches, libraries, daycares, and technical training centers to meet both spiritual and practical needs.

Under his leadership, a once-empty space now holds a four-story school, a thriving church of 250 believers, and a growing network of disciples committed to advancing the Kingdom. Yet, his greatest legacy is not in the buildings but in the people he has discipled—mentoring and equipping the next generation, many from his own family and community, to continue the work of ministry.

Ellen Abramson has walked alongside Pastor Marino since 1989, witnessing firsthand how his faith and determination have reshaped lives and communities. Since ASON International’s founding in 1997, this ministry has been supported and strengthened, allowing his vision to expand and take root in even more places.

The mission is clear:

• Establish and strengthen the church in Los Guaricanos, raising up trained leaders and embedding the church within the community through initiatives like a bakery, a technical school for children, a cooking school for adults, and a Christian education program from preschool through 12th grade.

• Provide housing for families in substandard conditions, ensuring a foundation for both spiritual and physical well-being.

• Plant and develop churches in rural outlying areas, equipping them with the resources to minister holistically—spiritually, educationally, and vocationally—through technical schools and community development programs.

Through faith, action, and steadfast partnership, their work continues to bring hope where it is needed most.