Mercedes Ledesma
Mercedes Ledesma serves as the Pastor of Worship & Youth, leading both ministries with creativity, intentionality, and a deep love for God’s people. Through worship and discipleship, Mercedes seeks to cultivate spaces where individuals—young and old—feel free to encounter the presence of God and respond authentically to Him.
In worship ministry, Mercedes coordinates weekly worship teams, leads rehearsals, and guides the congregation in musical worship each Sunday. Music has always been a central part of her life, and she delights not only in leading worship through song, but also in exploring and incorporating diverse expressions of worship. Her heart is to see God’s children lifting His name through song, word, and deed, believing that sincere worship offered from the heart brings joy to the Lord.
Alongside worship, Mercedes leads youth ministry for middle and high school students. She prepares and teaches Sunday morning lessons, supports and walks alongside youth volunteers, and helps facilitate weekly student ministry gatherings throughout the school year. With more than sixteen years invested in youth ministry overall, Mercedes brings both experience and genuine enthusiasm to this role. Though she is newer to serving in youth ministry at Mac Free, her passion for students is evident in the relationships she builds and the care she shows.
Mercedes finds great joy in walking with teenagers through the realities of their lives—listening to their stories, learning from their perspectives, and watching their faith grow. She is continually inspired by their curiosity, wisdom, and heart for others. Recently, she has seen God at work as students invite friends and become more engaged, allowing their faith to shape their words and actions.
A passage that has deeply shaped Mercedes’ faith is Psalm 139, which reminds her that God’s presence surrounds us completely. Verse 16, in particular, speaks to her heart: “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” This truth—that God makes no mistakes and has a purpose for each life from the very beginning—fills her with gratitude and wonder.
Mercedes enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, walking in nature, kayaking, and returning to Michigan—her home state—for time by the lake and hiking. She treasures time with friends and family and brings a joyful, relational spirit into every space she serves. A fun and little-known fact: she once tried out for American Idol and twice for The Voice—but God, as always, had different and better plans.