Introducing Ryan Howell, Our New Lead Pastor
August 07, 2019, By: Jimmy Scruggs
Crossroads has announced that Ryan Howell, currently the Lead Pastor of Curtis Lake Church in Sandford, ME, has been selected as the new Lead Pastor. Ryan will assume the role in September 2019, the start of a new ministry season.
“I am honored and humbled to be called as Crossroads’ next Lead Pastor. Honestly, Wendy and I feel a bit like we have won the lottery! It is a privilege to serve a faith community that welcomes all people and holds the values of Jesus higher than any form of religion,” says Howell. “We are a church firmly rooted in God’s priorities for this world: justice, mercy, humility and love of neighbor. These priorities bring hope, transform lives and strengthen the common good for every citizen in our communities regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religion. I will continue to pour my life into these priorities through the mission of Crossroads in Northern Colorado and wherever else God leads our church.”
Howell succeeds Founding Pastor John Smith who stepped down from 23 years of leadership on January 1, 2019. Smith plans to continue to serve organizations and individuals through various leadership and speaking opportunities.
“I can think of no one better to lead Crossroads. Ryan’s experience as a lead pastor, communication gifts, love for Jesus and the Gospel and generous spirit make him the perfect choice to take us into the future,” said Smith.
John and Phyllis Smith plan to remain active members of Crossroads Church.
“Beyond serving as a local church pastor, Ryan Howell brings unique abilities as an influencer, having been the president of Vision New England,” said Katie Martinez, executive pastor. “I am excited to work with Ryan as Crossroads continues to invest in people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. In a day when culture is losing confidence in the church, Crossroads is uniquely positioned to engage more people and make a difference in the world. Ryan is the right leader for the next chapter.”
Prior to his roles leading Curtis Lake Church and Vision New England, Howell served with his wife, Wendy, in children’s ministry, student ministry and as an associate pastor. Ryan earned a Master’s degree in theological studies at Harvard Divinity School.