Israel Linares, Associate Apopa Campus Pastor

Israel, the youngest of 3 brothers, was born on May 20, 1977, in San Salvador to a Catholic family. Life got tough real fast as he lost his father at age 3 due to the civil war. His family fled to Nicaragua for 11 years. Finally, it had become safe to return to El Salvador.

At 19, Israel, whose life was disorderly and full of vices, was invited to a CAM Christian church by a friend. The pastor was speaking on 2 Timothy 2:22. God touched his heart that day and he gave his life to the Lord. After years at this church, in 2013, the Lord led Israel and his family to Vida Nueva, Miralvalle Campus. He had been looking for a church that preached the Bible in an expository manner and had a clear, well-defined vision. He immediately began the discipleship process, first receiving CRECE and then becoming a student in the Leadership Bible Training Institute. It was during that time that the Lord called Israel into full time service. Previously, Israel had earned Biblical and Ministerial studies degrees from the Salvadoran Bible Institute and had experience pastoring a small congregation from 2010-2011.

In 2019, an opportunity presented itself to join the missionary pastor at Vida Nueva in Managua Nicaragua. After exploring, visiting, serving, and seeking the Lord and his home pastors, the Lord confirmed that direction for him. In January 2020, Israel was commissioned to join the pastoral team in Managua. He and his family faithfully served there for 3 years. Unfortunate and adverse circumstances required that they return to El Salvador. Then in February of 2024, the pastors of Vida Nueva offered Israel the opportunity to be a part of the pastoral team at the Apopa campus, alongside Cesar Monico. To this day Israel serves as the Associate Campus Pastor at the Apopa Campus.

Israel is married to Rosa Nelys, together than have two children, Lesly Emily, b. 2006 and Nehemias Israel, b. 2011. Israel and his family live for the cause of Christ. Israel’s life verse is John 17:3, “And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”