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Breath of Life’s Pastor Debleaire Snell to Open 2024 ASI Inter‑America Convention in Panama

Posted on Jul 13 2025

Panama City, Panama — July 2024 — Pastor Debleaire K. Snell, director of Breath of Life Ministries and Senior Pastor of Oakwood University Church, will deliver the opening keynote at the upcoming ASI Inter‑America Convention, set for August 14–17 at the Hotel Riu in Panama City. This year’s theme, “Empowered to Serve,” underscores the blending of spiritual purpose and professional impact among Adventist business leaders.

Snell brings more than 20 years of pastoral and broadcasting experience to this event. He earned his Bachelor’s in Theology from Oakwood University and his Master of Divinity from Andrews University Seminary. His ministerial journey spans leadership roles in Mississippi, Kentucky, and notably Huntsville, Alabama, where he led the First SDA Church. During his tenure, the congregation experienced hundreds of baptisms and launched a successful television ministry.

In 2021, Snell was appointed Speaker/Director of Breath of Life Television Ministries, a storied urban evangelism outreach, while continuing as Senior Pastor at Oakwood University Church. He is also an adjunct professor and author of several books, including New Normals, Almost Home, and Making Christianity Great Again. Together with his wife Gianna, they are raising three children.

At the convention, Snell will challenge delegates to make prayerful, Spirit-led choices in their businesses and daily lives. He will emphasize the importance of spiritual sensitivity over mere strategy. In previous messages, he has said that the greatest leadership gift is “being able to hear the Word of God when He talks.”

ASI Inter‑America President Rohan Riley praised Snell’s invitation, stating:

“We are very excited to motivate, inspire and equip chapter members for even greater service.”

The four-day convention will attract over 300 Adventist professionals from across the region. Alongside Pastor Snell, key presenters include ASI Inter‑America President Pastor Elie Henry and global business strategist Johann De Dier. The schedule includes keynote sessions, leadership workshops, networking events, and cultural activities—all designed to help professionals integrate faith into their workplace impact.