From 'Rico Suave' to Pastor: Gerardo Mejia's Remarkable Transformation
Former music sensation Gerardo Mejia, famous for his hit song 'Rico Suave', has traded in his pop star persona for a life of faith. Now, he serves as a pastor in Ashland, Kentucky, spreading his Hispanic heritage and Christian message.
Mejia's journey to Ashland began about 10 years ago when he and his wife, Kathy Eicher, moved to the area to save their family. They started the House of Grace Church in an old warehouse along Greenup Avenue in downtown Ashland. Today, they lead the Living Bridges Church, which Associate Pastor Ron Rucker describes as welcoming and accepting of Mejia's Hispanic heritage.
Mejia's transformation from 'Rico Suave' to pastor is remarkable. Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, he moved to Los Angeles in 1976 and rose to fame as an award-winning break dancer, actor, and music sensation in the United States. Despite his success, Mejia decided to leave his 'Rico Suave' persona behind and focus on Christianity.
Gerardo Mejia, now content with doing God's work, continues to share his Hispanic heritage in Ashland, Kentucky. He hopes to see the community embrace Spanish and create a more diverse cultural landscape in eastern Kentucky.
