Pastor John S. Picarello Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Christian Fellowship

THE PASTOR

John is a nationally known speaker and has been preaching and teaching the Good News of Jesus Christ since 1978. He was licensed and ordained in January 1996 under the ministry of Bishop Joseph G. Mattera at Resurrection Church in Brooklyn N.Y. and in May of that same year he and his wife Elena founded House On The Rock Christian Fellowship located on Staten Island, New York. They have a desire to see all people experience the redeeming power of the Cross, and to be healed and transformed by the love of Jesus Christ through the ministry of the word of God. John and his wife Elena have four children and four grandchildren. He serves on the Board of Directors for Sound the Trumpet Ministries International, and is also a member of the Regional leadership Team of Christ Covenant Coalition Inc., in New York City. He is also an active member of the National Association of Evangelicals.  

THE FIREFIGHTER

John was a 22 year veteran of the NYC Fire Department and a survivor of the WTC tragedy. He began his career in 1986 with Engine Co. 278 in Brooklyn, New York. He has also served with Ladder Co. 109 and Battalion 40. He has also worked in Engine Co. 152 and was assigned to Battalion 21 in Staten Island, New York.

Since September 11th, 2001 John has had the opportunity to give his testimony to thousands across the country. John has spoken in College Universities, High Schools and has been the keynote speaker at numerous banquets honoring rescue workers throughout the country, also appearing on the 700 club, TBN and a host of radio stations. John has also spoken at Madison Square Garden in 2002 and the Billy Graham Crusade NYC in 2005.