He was born in Belleville , New Jersey , the last of eight children to Pedro and Eva Mercado on June 9, 1978. He grew up in both Belleville and Newark , New Jersey . He attended Bethel Christian Academy in Newark for grammar school and both the Belleville junior high and high school. He attended the Bethel Assembly of God church until junior high when he began to stray from the things of the Lord.

After highschool he explored several different options. He considered joining the service before he settled as a teacher at the Special Needs School in Belleville for four years. In January of 2000, he decided to come to a church service at Abundant Life Worship Center . There he gave his heart to the Lord, joining his entire family in serving God. He took part in water baptism in June of that same year.  

Now having graduated Discipleship Training, Teacher's Training, and currently a member of the Ministry Training Class, he has assumed the role of Director of Youth. He accepted this position in conjunction with the departure of Elder Manny Archilla, former youth pastor, to the missionary field of the Dominican Republic . Efrain now oversees both Soul Seekers (ages 10-13) and Soul Purpose (ages 13-24). He is assisted by his internship and stewardship classes which consist of 25 leaders in training. Monthly meetings are conducted in order to continue spiritual growth. With the help of his leaders, monthly calendar consists of Friday night youth services, regular outings, activities, retreats, outreaches, and much more.

Currently, Efrain is involved with Youth, sound ministry, Ministry Training, and is a Physical Education teacher at Abundant Life Academy. He is currently in his 5th year teaching here. He makes his home in Belleville , New Jersey .