Hello, I’m Rafael Lara, but you can call me Macho.

Growing up as a Pastor's Kid, my life has been deeply rooted in church and community. My early years were filled with music and worship; I began learning music at age 2 and by 5, I was performing with my family's ministry. By 10, I was part of my church’s worship team, and at 17, I began leading worship. However, I always felt a broader calling beyond music.

At 23, I pursued my passion through formal education at Nyack College, earning a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry, where I also met my wife, Erica. I continued my studies with an MA in Christian Studies from Crown College and an MPS in Church Development from Alliance Theological Seminary.

Over the past 15 years, I’ve embraced various roles that have allowed me to grow beyond music. I’ve had the joy of preaching, teaching worship courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, and participating in church planting and redevelopment. Mentoring and discipleship have been particularly fulfilling as I guide others through their faith journeys.

Currently, I work as a Technology Instructor at Year Up, a nonprofit dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap for young adults. Alongside my wife, I am also planting a new church called The Table NYC in our Sunnyside, Queens neighborhood, where we live with our children, Eliana and Elias.