In the early 90s, Ramirez worked as a Youth Civic Leader in San Francisco City Hall, developing public policies for children and youth. He was part of a citywide youth leadership programs that provided ideas on youth issues, and worked with city gangs to stop youth violence. He also worked with “RAP” (Real Alternatives Program) a multi-service program for at-risk students working with the educational and recreational programs that served the Mission District; providing youth counseling, orientation, and working with high numbers of young drug addicts.

While working with San Francisco youth, he was able to help his best friend find peace in Christ after a cousin’s murder. “It was the best thing I’d ever done,” he remembers. “I realized that everything I was doing for young people was worthless if I didn’t help them meet Jesus.”

For this reason, he continued with his undergrad education completing a BA in Theology and accepted the call to the gospel ministry in 1996. He has served in four different states as academy chaplain, youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and departmental director in the areas of family life, camp ministries, health and temperance, national servicemen organization and youth ministries. During his last assignment Pastor Elden has directed the North American Division (NAD) Office of Volunteer Ministries since 2013. Now he has graciously accepted the invitation to serve as President of the Montana Conference.

Pastor Elden’s wife Jenny is a registered nurse, with a passion for serving those who are hurting, not only physically but also spiritually. They have been blessed with two daughters Elennie and Jasmine. His favorite scripture is Joshua 1:5, “No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you."