*Not pictured are the hundreds of church members who make excellent ministry happen each week. But, for what it's worth (and we think they're worth a lot!), this our staff ...
our team
Neal VanNatta
Lead pastor
Neal was born and raised in Florida. After high school he attended the University of Central Florida, earning a Bachelor of Science in Social Science Education. Neal met his wife, Laura, at UCF where they were married in 2004. Upon graduation, he studied at Southeastern Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina, where he received a Master of Divinity with emphasis in Biblical Languages. After seminary, Neal served as a Youth Pastor at two churches in Georgia and Florida. And, in 2017, Ridgecrest called Neal to be our Lead Pastor. Neal and Laura have four sons, Joshua, Gideon, Caleb, and Micah.
Aaron decker
MUSIC & CONNECTIONS MINISTER
Aaron Decker serves as the Worship and Connections Minister at Ridgecrest Baptist Church. After 16 years of ministry experience at a church in southwest Missouri, he was called to Ridgecrest in 2024. Aaron is passionate about leading worship centered on Christ and fostering spiritual growth. He holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Missouri Southern State University. Aaron is proficient in vocals, guitar, piano, bass, and drums. He is devoted to developing and empowering worship teams. His commitment to discipleship drives him to lead others in their faith journey and create a vibrant community of believers. In ministry, Aaron is supported by his wife Joanna and their three boys, Joseph, Jaxon, and Jonas, as they endeavor to faithfully follow God’s call and serve the church family at Ridgecrest.
JENNIFER SMITH
ADMINISTRATION & CHILDREN’S DIRECTOR
Jennifer Smith and her son, Holden, became members of Ridgecrest in 2013. Since then, Jennifer has been a dedicated volunteer, contributing to various aspects of the children's ministry and other church activities. Her devotion to God and commitment to serving her community inspired her to pursue an Associate of Divinity Degree at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, with studies beginning in January 2023. In 2024, Ridgecrest officially called Jennifer to serve as the Administration and Children's Director.
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER
MONICA SMITH
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custodian
Traci Shives
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