Co-Founder and President

Carlos is a husband and father to 6 children. He graduated with an MTS from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute in Washington D.C. and has completed the Encounter School of Ministry two-year program.

Carlos worked in diocesan marriage and family life ministry for 12 years before starting Mercy Tree Adventures. His experience in working and volunteering with RCIA, Alpha, NFP, marriage preparation/ enrichment as well as men’s and women’s ministries work together to influence his efforts in evangelization.

Co-Founder and Secretary

Elena is a wife and mother to 6 children. She has a graduate degree in Theology with a focus in Sacred Scripture from the Augustine Institute in Denver, CO and is finishing her certification with the Encounter School of Ministry.

Elena has volunteered and worked professionally within the Catholic Church for over 15 years. Whether it be in youth, young adult, marriage, or women’s ministry, Elena loves sharing the Scriptures and helping people experience the living God.

MTA Treasurer

Brad resides in Illinois with his wife and 5 children. He graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in Business Administration and has worked for numerous organizations in a variety of administrative and leadership capacities. He is currently employed as a staff accountant for his local diocese. Brad has a strong devotion to the Rosary and has supported ministries including Pre Cana wedding preparation and Legion of Valor, a men’s fraternity organization. Brad is very passionate about revival of the domestic church and is most excited to see MTA minister to families and help them grow in faith and virtue.

Board Member

Fr. Michael Trummer was ordained a diocesan priest to the Diocese of Springfield in IL in 2020. He is currently parochial vicar at St. Boniface Church in Edwardsville, as well as assistant chaplain at Fr. McGivney Catholic High School. He has a heart and desire for evangelization and renewal in the Church. He loves Carlos and Elena’s boldness and creativity in staring MTA. “We should do everything possible to facilitate encounters with Christ, and I believe the Holy Spirit is using the Tejedas to draw people closer to Jesus and His creation!

Board Member

Sarah is a member of the Mission Advancement team for the Evangelical Catholic. She has studied Theology and Catechetics at the undergraduate and graduate levels at Franciscan University of Steubenville. She is passionate about helping others encounter Jesus and equipping lay people to be missionary disciples in their day-to-day lives. Sarah enjoys time with friends and family, traveling, and hiking.