Merle is a revivalist, teacher and minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He carries a deep revelation of the father heart of God with a distinctive background in leadership and international ministry. Merle’s messages emphasize a passionate pursuit of God.

He is currently serving as the international director of DOVE International, a worldwide network of churches and ministries, after completing a succession process to succeed the founding leaders, Larry & LaVerne Kreider in April of 2024. Merle is also the lead pastor of Newport Church in Pennsylvania. 

He is the co author of the book, Encountering the Supernatural, and author of a new release, Great Grace, both of which include the central themes of living a naturally supernatural life by the power of the Holy Spirit. These books inspire believers to pursue deeper intimacy with God and to manifest His love and power in their daily lives.

As a trainer of leaders, Merle draws from stories of his own experiences in leadership formation as he applies the Word of God. The journey of faith he describes is not theory but lived encounters. His messages are characterized by a broad relational and international perspective, challenging the listener to faithfulness to the Lordship of Jesus Christ today.