Ryan first felt called to ministry after graduating from Carleton University in 1994 with a BA in Political Science and English Literature. He spent the next 17 years with Athletes in Action, the last five of which he served as the Canadian National Director. He brought his passion for seeing people impacted by the grace of Jesus to Sequoia in 2008, when he came on staff as an associate pastor, before receiving the lead pastor role in 2010. Growing up in a small town near Woodstock, Ontario, Ryan played competitive hockey and later went on to play varsity hockey at Carleton. Today he continues to spend plenty of time in rinks as a devoted hockey Dad, but he now finds his competitive outlet through obstacle course racing, recently competing in the Spartan World Championships. He also enjoys working with his hands on carpentry projects and has been known to occasionally show his artistic side with a paintbrush and canvas.

Ryan is a life long learner and he completed his Masters degree at Wheaton College in 2009. His authenticity as well as his natural leadership and teaching ability enable him to lead Sequoia with purpose and integrity. A committed family man, Ryan loves to pour his spare time into his wife, Vanessa and their two children, Rebekah and Joshua.

What he loves most about Sequoia…”I love watching people and families transformed by the grace of Jesus, where they begin to live out their redemptive potential in a way that leaves a legacy of impact for Christ.”