Dr. Ricardo Brambila (’24) earned his Doctor of Ministry Degree from B.H. Carroll Seminary. Dr. Brambila currently serves as Senior Vice President of Field Operations for Bethany Christian Services and as Lead Pastor of Primera Iglesia Bautista Dallas. For nearly three decades, his vocation has centered on serving children, families, churches, and communities through ministry and nonprofit leadership. He and his wife, Janeth, are blessed with three children, Laura, Eli, and Caleb. His family is a constant source of encouragement and remains at the heart of his calling to serve others.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to combine my faith, leadership experience, and commitment to strengthening families in both my professional and pastoral roles.
My decision to enroll at B. H. Carroll was prompted by a meaningful conversation with Dr. Albert Reyes, President and CEO of Buckner International, who encouraged me to continue developing as a Christian leader. His guidance, combined with the unconditional support of my wife, Janeth, gave me the confidence to take this important step. Ultimately, I believed I was responding to the call of my Savior to deepen my theological understanding, strengthen my ministry, and become better equipped to serve the Church, my community, and vulnerable children and families.
Dr. Karl Fickling and Dr. Gene Wilkes had a lasting impact on my leadership and ministry formation. Dr. Wilkes’ book, Jesus on Leadership, was especially influential during my early years of ministry, providing practical and biblical principles for servant leadership. Their teaching helped shape my understanding that Christian leadership is not primarily about position or authority but about humility, service, character, and faithful investment in the lives of others.
When I reflect on my time at B. H. Carroll, I remember beginning my doctoral journey during one of the most uncertain seasons of my life and ministry. Our church had recently lost its building to a tornado, and the COVID-19 pandemic was beginning in 2020. Many people told me it was not the ideal time to pursue a doctoral degree, but I strongly sensed that the Lord was leading me to move forward. I came to understand that there would never be a perfect time—only an opportunity to trust God, remain faithful to His calling, and take the next step in obedience.
My time at B. H. Carroll broadened my worldview and strengthened my critical-thinking, theological-reflection, and leadership skills. The program challenged me to examine complex issues through both biblical and practical perspectives and to integrate faith, scholarship, and professional practice thoughtfully. It also equipped me to lead with greater wisdom, cultural awareness, humility, and confidence in both ministry and nonprofit executive leadership."