Fernando Torres

I have come to realise, having already lived on three different continents, two truths that together bring a special spice to existence: life in this world is brief and also a sacred gift. I grew up in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), where I was influenced and shaped by beautiful Christian environments: my family, friends, churches, and youth ministries.

Yes, I’m crazy about football (I’m told there is a Spanish soccer player named after me), I spend hours having a good barbecue (Brazilian bbq style with friends), I love live music, I can easily spend an entire day on a beach, and – with deep reverence – I love giving hugs.

Since we were 15 years old, Michelle and I have remained best friends and sweethearts. It’s been 24 years now, and I feel there’s still much more to know about this mystery called Michelle. (I really hope you, the reader of this bio, are bad at Maths). In 2008, not only did I marry my childhood sweetheart I was also ordained as a minister by the Presbyterian Church of Brazil. I am simply passionate and feel called to work with young people, an age group I have been working with throughout my ministerial and professional life. I love spirituality, mystical theology, and pastoral work. I take pleasure in dwelling and being inhabited by deep questions.

Over the years, I have been privileged to obtain three bachelor’s degrees: Social Sciences, Teaching (Sociology), and Theology. Five years ago, I moved to Melbourne, where I could do postgraduate studies in Theology (University of Divinity), and I am currently pursuing a Master of Counselling (QUT).

Since moving to Australia, our life has been even more blessed with our children, Thomas and Isabella, who were born in Melbourne and the Gold Coast, respectively.
I’m really excited to be involved in Activate as it is more than a job for me; it is a real calling. What a privilege!