Rev. David Lagos-Fonseca

Pastor, Barrington United Methodist Church

Yep, that’s me. I was born and raised in Chile, where I first heard God’s call to serve through the Methodist Church. I’m the eldest of eight siblings in a family shaped by a deep mix of military service on my father’s side and strong faith and church life on my mother’s. That grounding in both discipline and devotion has shaped much of who I am. My parents and siblings still live outside the U.S., and while I now call this country home, my heart carries the rhythms of both cultures. I speak Spanish (Castilian) fluently and English as my second language.

I’m married to my partner in life and ministry, Rev. Shirley Pulgar-Hughes, who currently serves as Pastor at Our Redeemer’s United Methodist Church. We’re blessed with a daughter, Carris, who fills our lives with pride and joy. Her journey continues to be one of the greatest gifts God has given us.

At the heart of my ministry is a deep love for people. I feel called to serve the Body of Christ across lines of ethnicity, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, belief, age, ability, and economic status. I believe every person carries within them God-given dignity and gifts. The church, to me, should reflect the rich, vibrant diversity of God’s creation, and I’m passionate about creating spaces where all feel seen, heard, and valued.

Justice, reconciliation, and peace aren’t just values I preach, they guide how I strive to live and lead. I believe discipleship is meant to be lived out in real ways, right in the rhythms of everyday life. I believe the local church should be a place where everyone is equipped to serve, to lead, and to grow, because we are all ministers in God’s kingdom.

I try to be a bridge-builder and encourager. I also have a deep passion for mission work, both local and global. To me, faith is never static. It’s meant to move, act, serve, and love in tangible ways.

When I’m not in the pulpit or immersed in ministry, you’ll probably find me outdoors. I’m a passionate bird watcher and bird photographer. I also enjoy biking on park and forest trails, digging in the garden, and baking homemade bread (which fills our home with comfort and good smells).

I’m always up for a game of ping pong or pickleball. I have a soft spot for nonfiction books that stretch both the mind and the spirit. I’m a dog lover through and through. Nothing lifts my spirits quite like being around furry companions.

And I’m not shy about dessert, whether it’s strawberry-rhubarb pie, brownies, cherries, or cake. Life’s too short, and as my mom taught me, dessert should come first.

I find God not only in music, which I love in all its variety, but also in silence. Silence and contemplation are part of my spiritual rhythm, grounding me and deepening my connection to God.

And finally, I am a shepherd at heart, patient, approachable and I am ready to serve with love. I believe that coffee, compassion, and community outreach can change the world, one cup, one hug, and one neighbor at a time.

I maintain an open-door policy. So, you are invited to join me for coffee or tea or lunch at any time. It’s my treat.