TOGETHER TOWARD TOMORROW
As Pastor Rick prepares to step into retirement, we joyfully anticipate the next chapter God has prepared for Violet Baptist Church. As we look toward the future, our VBC family is entering a season of prayer, discernment and action in the search for our next senior pastor.
Our ministries, worship services and mission continue as normal as we trust God to lead us into the next season.
Throughout the process, you can find updates from the pulpit committee on this page.
This page will be updated regularly throughout the search process. Questions? Check here first!
Who are we seeking?
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Character
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We’re looking for someone who loves Jesus deeply, lives with integrity and leads from a place of humility and faithfulness to the Gospel. (1 Tim 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-9)
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Culture
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Our hope is to find a leader who champions the doctrine, and values of VBC's Baptist identity: someone who honors where we’ve been while guiding where we’re going.
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Chemistry
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We’re seeking a leader, along with his family, who connects naturally with our church family and enjoys being part of a close-knit church community.
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Competency
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We’re also looking for someone with the calling, education, gifts and experience to lead well. He is someone who can preach the Word clearly and passionately, shepherd wisely and guide Violet Baptist Church confidently and with a clear direction.
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Process and timeline
| Month/stage | What's happening |
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January
Pre-Search Phase
Orientation & Prayer Launch
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The committee gets organized and invites the church to join in prayer for God’s guidance throughout the search. We invite you to fill out our member survey. Take the survey here (it's open until Feb. 1!). |
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February
Pre-Search Phase
Gather Church Input, Finalize Position Profile
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We'll review survey results from the congregation, then finalize a clear profile and evaluation criteria for potential candidates. |
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February-March
Search Phase
Application Window
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We receive and identify potential candidates from a variety of trusted sources and begin compiling names for careful consideration. |
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March-April
Search Phase
Initial Evaluations
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The committee reviews candidate materials thoughtfully and consistently, narrowing the list to those who best align with our church’s needs and calling. |
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April-May
Interview Phase
Interviews
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We begin conversations with selected candidates, asking questions, learning about their ministry experience, and discerning fit with our church’s mission and values. |
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June
Interview Phase
Discernment
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After interviews, the committee spends focused time praying, reflecting, and discussing to reach unity about the candidate we believe God is leading us toward. |
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July
Post-Interview Phase
Due Diligence, Invite Candidate in View of a Call
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We confirm key information through references and background checks and, if affirmed, invite the candidate to engage with the church. |
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August
Post-Interview Phase
Recommendation & Vote
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The committee shares a final recommendation with the congregation, holds a vote, and if affirmed, extends an official call and offer to the candidate. |
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Sept-Oct
Transition Phase
Transition Planning
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The candidate works closely with Pastor Rick and key leaders to plan a smooth transition, getting to know our church, aligning on priorities and preparing for a healthy start in the new role. |
Resources
Meet the committee
Pulpit Committee
If you see us around, say hello! We'd love to answer any questions you have.
Fred Staunton Committee Chair
I am a retired engineer who spent my career in the utility industry. I have been an active member of Violet Baptist Church since 2003, serving in Men’s Ministry, Worship Ministry, and VioletGroup leadership. I am married to Tami and have three adult children and six grandchildren. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve my church family in this season.
Kara Bottoms Committee Vice Chair
I’m a Christ-follower, wife, mom, and business owner. My husband, Nick, and I have two kids—Sadie (3) and Silas (1). Violet has been our home church as a couple since 2018, and Nick’s home church since 2004. We serve regularly in VioletKids and stay actively involved in our VioletGroup. Professionally, I own and manage a creative agency serving healthcare and B2B clients. Our agency has supported the church with several recent projects, including graphics for the Resource Hub and the Disaster Relief trailer. I’m also a member of Convene, a national community of Christian business leaders who meet in peer advisory groups, and a mentor through the Baton Exchange.
Jinnie Hill Committee Secretary
I live in Pataskala, Ohio with my husband, Rich, our two children, Richard and Kayla, and our pets—Rascal the dog and Tigger the cat. Family and church are central to my life. I serve as a team parent, regularly volunteer with Violet Kids on Sunday mornings, and support VBC women’s events and various kids’ activities throughout the year. Whether I’m cheering on my children or serving others, I’m fully invested in the people I love. Professionally, I’ve been with JPMorgan Chase since November 2006. I began as an Assistant Manager and now serve as a Controls Manager supporting customer data platforms across the firm.
Jon Camp
I serve as the Men’s Ministry Leader at Violet and am also a member of the Finance Team. I have lived in Pickerington since 2019 and am married to Kristen. We have two children—Andrew (4) and Grace (1). I am a graduate of the University of Tennessee and hold a Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, as well as an MBA from Wright State University. Professionally, I work as a Health and Benefits Consultant. In my free time, I enjoy watching Tennessee Vols sports, reading, and drinking coffee.
Sidney Carter
I’m an Onboard and Support Specialist I at U.S. Bank Trust Company National Association. I love being a member of Violet Baptist Church, and I enjoy serving on both the Praise Team and the Welcome Team.
Lee Espartero
I have been a member of Violet since 2015. I currently serve with the Deacon Ministry and in VioletKids, and from time to time I also volunteer at special events. I’m originally from California and moved to Pickerington in 2006. I have been married to my lovely wife, Riza, for 25 years, and we have three children in college: Andrew, Rylee, and Zetta. I currently work for the Air Force Research Lab as a Financial Specialist.
Mark Painter
I currently serve as Chairman of the Deacon Group. I have taught several VioletGroups and have been a member here for the past 12 years. I also co-lead our Tuesday night prayer meetings. I love the people of Violet—both members and guests—and I hope to serve on the Pulpit Committee because I believe this work is vital to the future of our church.
Eric Pennington
I have been a faithful member of Violet Baptist Church for over twenty years, serving in various ministry roles with a special focus on mental health and well-being. I’ve led VioletGroups, coached ministry leaders, and am passionate about helping others grow emotionally and spiritually. Professionally, I serve as the Managing Partner of Spirit of EQ, guiding our mission to cultivate emotional intelligence in leaders and teams. I am a certified practitioner in emotional intelligence and neuroscience-based tools, bringing more than fifteen years of entrepreneurial and leadership experience in both small and large organizations.
Brad Thibaut
I retired from Fifth Third Bank after a 42-year career in credit. I have been a member of Violet Baptist Church since 2003 and have previously served in roles including Upward, children’s ministry, and small group leadership. I currently serve on the Disaster Relief team, the Chanku Waste Ranch Board of Directors, and as Treasurer of Violet Baptist Church.
Questions for the committee? Get in touch!
Questions can be directed to pulpitcommittee@violetchurch.com.