Connect Church began in 2014 with a clear mission: to glorify Christ, make disciples, and serve our city. Since then, we’ve grown into a vibrant, multi-generational and multi-ethnic church in the heart of New Orleans.

As a diverse community of believers, we’re committed to planting churches, making disciples, and proclaiming the hope of Christ to a world in need. From serving our neighbors to gathering in community and worship, everything we do points people to Jesus and the life He offers.

Pastor Ryan Rice Sr. is a native of New Orleans. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Dillard University, where he studied Mass Communications, graduating Magna Cum Laude. After studying Mass Communications at Dillard University, Ryan proceeded to utilize his skills for communications by working in Corporate Communications, as well as Training and Development. Ryan excelled in his career and was named Employee of the Year in 2005.  After sensing a vocational call to ministry, Ryan served as a children's pastor at a large multi-campus church in Baton Rouge, La. In 2014, Ryan and his family moved back to New Orleans to plant Connect Church in the community of Algiers, where he grew up.  Currently, Ryan is pursuing an MA in Apologetics from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

Pastor Ryan has a passion for expository preaching and has served as a speaker at the 2017 Southern Baptist Pastor’s Conference. He has also been a speaker at both local and national events, at universities, and at seminaries.  He is on the speaking team of the National Refresh Conference hosted by Sherwood Baptist Church. He has led training for the Send Network and serves as the Send City Missionary with the North American Mission Board in New Orleans.

Ryan is married to his wife Seane' and they have four children: Ryan Jr., Brayden, Reagen, and Bailey. 

You can follow Pastor Ryan at ryanricesr.com