Ricky Ray

Dr. Ricky Ray is a Christian pastor, speaker, author, and church planter with decades of experience in evangelical ministry. As founder and president of The Crossing Ministries, Ray focuses on sharing messages of hope and encouragement within the Christian community. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in religion and theater from Union University, a Master of Divinity in New Testament studies from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, a Doctorate of Biblical Studies from Andersonville Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry in church growth, missions, and evangelism from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Ray has served in various ministry roles, including youth pastor, children's pastor, music minister, and senior pastor, across Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, and Arkansas. His pastoral leadership includes serving at Skyview Baptist Church, Fowlkes Baptist Church, First Baptist Church Hazard, and as lead church planter and pastor at Sylvan Hills Community Church. This range of experience provides Ray with insight into the challenges and opportunities facing contemporary churches.

As president of The Crossing Ministries, Ray oversees missions initiatives with more than 80 international partners. His work in global outreach includes leading mission trips to Colombia, conducting church ministry, street outreach, and home ministry, contributing to the organization's ongoing efforts in South America.

With over three decades of preaching experience, Ray is recognized for his Christ-centered approach to teaching and his ability to make complex biblical passages accessible. He is known as a church planter, speaker, and author, addressing topics such as spiritual growth, evangelism, and Christian leadership. Through his preaching, international missions, and published resources, Ray continues to contribute to the fields of church planting, Christian education, and global ministry.