Born and raised in New York, Rev. Hiram Rios grew up deeply rooted in an Assemblies of God Latino Pentecostal church. His upbringing in this vibrant spiritual community laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to faith and service.
For 34 years, Rev. Rios dedicated himself to the Prosthetic/Orthotic field. His career in this specialized area reflects his deep-seated commitment to helping others, particularly those facing physical challenges.
The tragic loss of his youngest son, Daniel Jeremiah (DJ), in 2022, marked a turning point in Rev. Rios's life. This profound personal loss propelled him to re-enter the workforce with a renewed sense of purpose. He joined VITAS, an organization dedicated to providing compassionate hospice and palliative care. Here, he supported patients and their families in navigating the challenges of terminal illness, drawing on his own experiences of grief and healing. In 2024, Rev. Rios embarked on a new chapter as the Director of Community Partnerships for the Conecta program under Urban Strategies. His role focuses on aiding immigrants in the South Florida area, showcasing his commitment to community service and social justice. He also volunteers in the Spiritual Care Department of Memorial Hospital.
In 2023, along with his wife, he founded the Daniel J. Rios Memorial Fund to honor the memory of his son to support organizations that support special needs children and/or their families.
Rev. Rios has been a stalwart in co-vocational ministry for over 34 years, balancing his professional endeavors with his spiritual calling. His pastoral ministry, spanning more than 15 years, has been characterized by compassionate leadership and a deep understanding of the human experience. Currently, Rev. Rios is also part of La Mesa Academy of Emory University, taking part in a graduate theological studies program.
From January 2019 to December 2022, Rev. Rios produced and hosted the West Pines Comedy Room. This monthly community-wide comedy show, held every fourth Thursday, brought joy and laughter to many, highlighting his unique approach to community building and outreach.
At The Passion Center, Rev. Rios continues his journey of service. He is involved in various initiatives aimed at enriching the community, guided by his faith, resilience, and unwavering spirit of giving.
Rev. Hiram Rios's life and work are testaments to the power of faith, hope, and laughter in the face of adversity. His multifaceted career, marked by compassion and community service, continues to inspire and uplift those around him. As he moves forward with his endeavors at The Passion Center, his impact on the community and beyond remains profound and enduring. He resides in Miramar, Florida with his wife, Rev. Dr. Liz Rios, older son Samuel, and two his two Boxers, Macho and Milo.