When Arkansas native Dr. Ryan Blackwell assumed leadership of Lifeway Christian Resources this week, he brought with him a deep appreciation for the churches and people who helped shape his ministry journey.

Blackwell, 42, was unanimously elected as Lifeway's 11th president and CEO by trustees during a special-called meeting April 22 in Nashville and officially began serving in the role June 1. He comes to the position after serving since 2020 as executive pastor and teaching pastor at Cross Church in Springdale. His ministry journey has included church leadership in Arkansas, California and Oklahoma.

Reflecting on ministry experiences across multiple states, Blackwell said each assignment taught lessons that will help guide him in his new national leadership role.

"One of the greatest lessons I have learned is that Jesus' church is amazing in all its different forms and all play a part in reaching the world with the gospel," he said.

Blackwell said his years with First Baptist Church of San Francisco in California from 2010-2019 taught him patience, dependence on the Holy Spirit and the importance of faithfully loving people over the long term. His return to Arkansas in 2020 reinforced the value of healthy teams, clear mission focus, and adaptability during seasons of growth and change.

"Looking back, I can see how God used each ministry assignment to give me a deeper appreciation for churches of every size, style and setting," he said. "As I begin serving at Lifeway, I want to keep listening carefully to pastors and church leaders and make sure we are helping them fulfill the mission God has given them."

Blackwell said the values he learned among Arkansas Baptists will continue to influence his leadership as Lifeway serves churches across the nation and around the world.

“Arkansas has shaped so much of who I am. It’s where I first sensed a call to ministry, where I was given early opportunities to serve, preach, and lead, and where my family and I have experienced such meaningful relationships and spiritual growth,” Blackwell said. "Arkansas Baptists have a deep love for Scripture, missions, evangelism and the local church. Those priorities matter deeply to me as well. I will carry with me the values that were formed in Arkansas: a love for people, a commitment to biblical truth, and a desire to help local churches thrive." 

As he begins leading one of the Southern Baptist Convention's largest ministry organizations, Blackwell expressed gratitude for the support he has received from Arkansas Baptists over the years.

"Rachel and I are incredibly grateful for the people who have invested in us, prayed for us, encouraged us, and allowed us to serve alongside them," he said.

He also encouraged Arkansas Baptists to pray for Lifeway as it continues its mission of serving local churches through Bible studies, curriculum, Vacation Bible School resources, camps, books, events and digital ministry tools.

"This opportunity was not something I sought out or planned for myself," Blackwell said. "But I have been reminded that while we may make our plans, the Lord establishes our steps. I begin this role with a sense of humility, gratitude and expectation for what God will do in the days ahead."

Cutline: Ryan and Rachel Blackwell and their three children, Brady, Allie and Mae. (Photo provided by Lifeway)