Joe Melendrez is one of America’s most exciting Catholic performers. He is a natural MC, a dynamic musical performer, an inspiring speaker, and an expert retreat leader.
Joe Melendrez has forged a unique path to becoming one of America’s most exciting Catholic performers. At age fifteen, Joe was featured on MTV and developed a love for performing. Later that year, on a Teen A.C.T.S. Retreat, Joe encountered the awesome love of God. It was then that he decided to dedicate his life to sharing the Good News. Joe shares the Gospel in many unique ways, from his development of a faith-based clothing line, God Swagg Apparel, his release of four major Catholic hip-hop albums, to sharing the winnings from a college Chipotle contest (a year of free burritos), as a means to evangelize to different people with each meal!
Joe’s BA in Religious studies from the University of Dayton has led him to become a Religion teacher and Youth Minister for over a decade. In addition to his work in Catholic education, Joe’s electric ministry of music and evangelization has taken him to Europe, Africa, Australia, Mexico, South America and all across the USA. Joe uses his skills to animate huge crowds of teens, and he continues to share these gifts at major youth rallies, conferences, and national events. Today, Joe Melendrez is a husband and father, as well as a natural MC, a dynamic musical performer, an inspiring speaker, and an expert retreat leader.
MINISTRY OFFERINGS
MUSICAL PERFORMER
A one-of-a-kind approach to sharing Christ through Hip Hop music. Joe's scripturally focused lyrics have the ability to inspire prayer, energize listeners, and draw them deeper into knowing and loving God.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
An engaging and dynamic witness of faith shared through music, ice breakers, testimony and prayer. Each keynote contains a powerful message designed to strengthen faith, uplift, and send forth.
WORKSHOP PRESENTER
An interactive presentation which includes community building activities, a faith focused message, and time for spiritual reflection. Joe also incorporates an effective use of audio and visual technology.
RETREAT LEADER
An energizing and enlightening retreat experience, which includes relevant and Christ centered themes and highly engaging activities. The framework of each retreat is built specifically around the needs of the community being served.
EVENT MC
As a past radio and TV host, Joe has the ability to emcee any major event. He cultivates an enjoyable, yet sacred environment while introducing talent. Joe also creates smooth transitions, which enhances the overall professionalism of your event.
TALK TOPICS
CHOSEN - God Chose You! How to discover and respond to His call on your life.
In the talk "CHOSEN” inspired by John 15:16, Joe explores the profound concept of being chosen. The talk guides the audience on a journey to understand their unique purpose and divine calling, offering practical steps to discern and embrace God's plan for their lives. By the end, listeners will feel empowered and inspired to respond to God's call with confidence and faith.
OVERCOME - Breakthrough your biggest tests and trials. How to overcome fear, worry, doubt and anxiety.
In the talk "OVERCOME” inspired by John 16:33, Joe addresses the common struggles of fear, worry, doubt, and anxiety. The discussion provides practical and spiritual strategies to help individuals conquer these challenges and find peace and strength in difficult times. By the end, participants will be equipped with tools to overcome their biggest obstacles and live with greater confidence and resilience.
LIVING HOPE - How to find unshakable hope in Christ in a world full of uncertainty.
In the talk “LIVING HOPE,” inspired by 1 Peter 1:3, Joe helps young people discover that Jesus is our Living Hope today. This message offers encouragement for those feeling lost, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their purpose. Through energizing music, relatable insight, and a call to real faith, students are invited to fix their focus on Jesus and embrace the unshakable hope He provides. Perfect for schools, retreats, or parish events, this talk inspires students to live boldly for Christ and share His hope with others.
BETTER TOGETHER - How to build an authentic Christian Community overflowing with spiritual support.
In the talk "BETTER TOGETHER” inspired by Acts 2:45-47, Joe emphasizes the importance of cultivating genuine relationships within a faith-based community. The discussion offers practical guidance on cultivating an environment where members can grow spiritually, support one another, and experience deep, meaningful connections. By the end, participants will be inspired and equipped to strengthen their faith communities with authenticity and love.
WIN THE DAY FOR JESUS - How to Beat Burnout, Re-Energize your mind and body to achieve your God-Given potential.
In the talk "WIN THE DAY FOR JESUS” inspired by Philippians 3:14, Joe addresses the issue of burnout and offers strategies to renew one's energy and focus. Participants will learn practical and spiritual techniques to revitalize their minds and bodies, enabling them to fulfill their divine purpose. By the end, listeners will be equipped with tools to overcome exhaustion and live each day with renewed vigor and purpose in Christ.
GET IN THE WORD - Learn how to read scripture and let God ’s Word take root in your life.
In the talk "GET IN THE WORD” inspired by John 8:31-32, Joe guides participants on effective ways to engage with the Bible. Practical methods and spiritual insights are shared to help individuals understand and internalize scripture, making it a transformative part of their daily lives. By the end, listeners will be inspired and equipped to deepen their relationship with God through His Holy Word.
MISSION DRIVEN - Learn how to make disciples everyday by sharing your faith in real and relatable ways.
In the talk "MISSION DRIVEN” inspired by Matthew 28:18-20, Joe provides practical strategies for daily evangelization. Participants will learn how to share their faith authentically and effectively in everyday interactions. By the end, listeners will feel empowered and equipped to disciple others regularly assisting in our mission to make disciples worldwide!
COME HOLY SPIRIT - Do greater things by the power of the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaim the Gospel.
In the talk "COME HOLY SPIRIT” inspired by John 14:12, Joe explores how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to actually do greater things and share the Gospel with confidence. Participants will learn to utilize the divine Holy Spirit power inside them to enhance their spiritual lives and witness. By the end, listeners will be inspired and equipped to boldly proclaim their faith and do greater things on the regular.
CREATED - You were made for greatness! Embrace your undeniable value and true identity in Christ.
In the talk “CREATED” inspired by Genesis 1:27, Joe highlights the inherent value and Christlike identity within each individual. Participants will discover how to consistently recognize and embrace their undeniable worth and purpose. By the end, listeners will feel empowered to live out their greatness with confidence and a clear sense of identity.
NOTABLE PERFORMANCES
2025 St. Thomas University - Miami, FL
2025 HIM Conference - Honolulu, HI
2025 LA Youth Day Archdiocese of Los Angeles – Los Angeles, CA
2025 Lifefest – Oshkosh, WI
2024 New York Catholic Youth Day – New York, NY
2024 Encuentro De Jovenes – Querétaro, Mexico
2024 Canada School Board Tour – Alberta, Canada
2023 National Catholic Youth Conference – Indianapolis, IN
2023 World Youth Day – Lisbon, Portugal
2023 Diocese of Lubbock Eucharistic Revival – Lubbock, TX
2022 The Fest - Diocese of Cleveland – Cleveland, OH
2022 Diocese of Sacramento - On Fire – Vallejo, CA
2022 Dallas Catholic Youth Conference – Dallas, TX
2022 God is Good Festival – Legnica, Poland
2021 Diocese of Reno Youth Conference – Reno, NV
2021 God is Good Festival – Rosenthal, Germany
2020 Together in Spirit - Digital Series – Crookston, MN
2019 Australian Catholic Youth Festival – Perth, Australia
2019 Abbey Fest – Paoli, PA
2019 World Youth Day – Panama City, Panama
2018 National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry – Tampa, FL
2018 NOAC - Boy Scouts of America Conference – Bloomington, IN
2018 Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference – Waco, TX
2017 Holy Fire – Chicago, IL
2017 Diocese of Milwaukee Hispanic Youth Rally – Milwaukee, WI
2017 Archdiocese of Atlanta Youth Rally – Atlanta, GA
2017 Synergy - Diocese of San Diego – San Diego, CA
2016 Idaho Catholic Youth Conference – Boise, ID
2016 Archdiocesan Youth Conference – Houston, TX
2015 Diocese of Jackson Youth Rally – Jackson, MS
2015 Diocese of Seattle Youth Rally – Seattle, WA
2014 Multifestival David – Torrelavega, Spain
2013 World Youth Day – Rio, Brazil
2013 Diocese of El Paso Celebration of Life Rally – El Paso, TX
2012 Diocese of Las Vegas Youth Rally – Las Vegas, NV
2012 Catholic Youth Outreach – Uganda, Africa
2011 Congresso De Jovenes (CCJ) – Los Angeles, CA
2011 Performance for Pope Benedict XVI - World Youth Day – Madrid, Spain
TESTIMONIALS
“I believe that Joe’s ministry in bringing the Gospel of Christ, the Church Tradition and Church teachings through music will make it more interesting for the young and the old alike.”
Rev. Riz J Carranza (Pastor, St. Peter Claver Church, Simi Valley, CA)
“We have been blessed to work with Joe and plan to work with him in the near future. He is a man of faith, virtue, and has an incredible evangelical spirit that radiates from his positive, unique and authentic ministry.”
Bob Noel (Formation of Discipleship, Diocese of Crookston, MN)
“Joe has a gift for connecting youth with Jesus! His passionate witness made a lasting impression on our parish’s Confirmation candidates.”
Fr. Jeffery Dufresne (Pastor, St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, Indianapolis, IN)
“Mr. Melendrez is a person of Good Moral Character and reputation in the Catholic Community. His dedication and ability to connect with today’s youth is inspirational!”
Most Rev. Joseph V. Brennan, D.D., V.G. (Bishop of the Latin Church, Diocese of Fresno, CA)
“As our keynote presenter at New York Catholic Youth Days, he had our youth fully engaged as he can authentically preach the Gospel in a culturally relevant way, meeting the needs of our diverse communities present.”
Christina Davis (Director of Youth Ministry, Archdiocese of St. Louis, MO)
“Joe’s extensive religious studies and knowledge accompanied by his musical talent and skill give him the ability to relate, engage and communicate to the Youth, and Young Adults with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I have nothing but a deep respect for Joe’s love of Christ and silliness to strive for excellence in anything he sets his mind to.”
Fr. Rob Galea (Director of Icon Ministry, Diocese of Sandhurst, Victoria, Australia)
“The ministry of Joe Melendrez is energetic, gracious and awakens in young people a newfound confidence in the tenderness of God. He gives youth real access to the "Joy of the Gospel" through his music, talks, and retreats. Any Church community will be many-times blessed by his ground-breaking approach to evangelization.”
Rev. Gregory J Boyle, S.J. (Founder and Executive Director, Homeboy Industries, Los Angeles, CA)
“Joe’s Catholic-Christian Hip-Hop style had my young audience of many cultures, dancing, singing, laughing and praising. Further, Joe has a ‘likeability’ that cannot be understated.”
Kevin Driscoll (Coordinator of Office for Youth & Young Adults Diocese of Gary, IN)
“He is well regarded in his field and has my full confidence in his work. I know of no reason why Joe Melendrez should not be welcomed into your Diocese. I am confident his presentations will be well received.”
Most Reverend José H. Gomez (Archbishop of Los Angeles, CA)
“Each student that attended our retreat lead by Joe Melendrez, walked away with a renewed excitement, a new way to be a role model to their peers.”
Kristi Lucero (Director of Youth Ministry Sacred Heart Church, Farmington, NM)
“His integration of the prayers of the rosary, as well as his personal witnessing, creates an almost non-identified, to date, genre a music which has a great future.”
Reverend Carlos B. Velázquez (Rector of San Fernando Cathedral San Antonio, TX)
“Joe is an authentic example of a true disciple of Christ and he naturally connects with people, especially with youth. I highly recommend him to any faith community who wants to be on fire for God- he will inspire you and much more!”
Tanya Velazquez (Central Catholic High school Theology Chair, Modesto, CA)
“When we’re doing events, we want young people to lose their inhibitions and enter into the event. Many people can do that well with young people. But Joe is able to do that while leading young people in an invocation of the Holy Spirit. It is a rare gift to have young people shouting God’s name in praise at the beginning of an event. This is why I want to bring him into any event I’m involved with.”
Robert Feduccia (Vice-President of EQSaints, Nashville, TN)
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