Find us on FacebookThe Rev. Matthew Ricks
I have served as the Senior Minister of Bethany Christian Church since June 2008. However, I do not feel like a stranger at Bethany. I attended this church and became a member here before going to seminary. So, whether you are a visitor or long-time member of this church, I can identify with your decision to come to Bethany. There are so many wonderful people at Bethany and that is the main reason I joined this church so many years ago. That is why I chose to return as the church's Minister.
I grew up in Roanoke and attended Roanoke College. After finishing college, I moved to Richmond to go to Union Theological Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education (Union-PSCE). I graduated in 2004. Since going to seminary I have spent time working in Youth Ministry at Colonial Place Christian Church in Richmond and Park Street Christian Church in Charlottesville. I served as a Pastoral Care volunteer at the Hermitage Nursing Home from 2001 - 2004 and made some wonderful friends there. I also worked as a State Park Chaplain in Mifflinburg, PA for the Pennsylvania Council of Churches. From 2004 to 2008, I served as the Associate Minister at Louisa Christian Church where I worked primarily in Youth Ministry.
I love serving in the church and getting to meet so many people. I have a passion for helping the church find God's calling and helping people grow in their faith. If you ever want to just talk about religion and faith, I am always interested!
Personally, I have been married to my wife, Lisa, since 2006. Our daughter, Macey, was born in November 2008. When I am not working, I like to run, read, and paint. We have a dog, Paisley, and cat, Piper.
Feel free to email me at pastor@bccroanoke.org or call (540-366-0968). I work in the church office most mornings of the week (I am off on Wednesday and most of Saturday). However, if you have an emergency, please give me a call at home (540-354-2881). Feel free to stop by anytime to chat. You might want to call first to make sure I am not visiting or at a meeting. I look forward to seeing you!
You can also keep up with the church and learn more about me by reading my journal here.
