I am married to Letha. We have one daughter, Jessica who is married to Josh Hanson. They had their first child, Sophia on April 22, 2011 and their second, Judah, on November 4, 2013! I serve as State Administrative Bishop for the Church of God in Illinois. Contact me at rickwhitter@gmail.com. Grace and Peace to you!
a few ideas from rick whitter
Thoughts on Life and Leading 
Hi Rick,
I tell you, you are so right that there is nothing like a church family, we have not experienced that since we have left you all. Boy d we sure miss that sense of community and family.
Elena Reed
Rick, I would like to talk to you about the four steps you indicate are helpful for church revitalization. Would you be willing to exchange emails and or phone numbers? Here is my email address: dhboady@gmail.com. Would love to have a chat. I am working on a dissertation for Talbot with regards to church revitalization. Thanks so much.
Hi Duane,
My apologies for such a tardy reply. You may no longer be in need of a discussion but if so, I am available. My email is rickwhitter@gmail.com. Feel free to connect. I would love to be of service.
Grace and peace,
Rick
5 years ago my husband and another pastor felt called to plant a church. It has grown to almost 500. In those 5 years, we have been so stretched that it has challenged our marriage and relationship several times. We are strong but we do get weary, it seems like there is always something to handle (usually people) that cause so many problems. Is there any mentoring or something you can suggest to help people learn to effectivley solve conflicts? They both have a youth ministry background so this has proved challenging to face every decision without experience. Thank you
Hi Tiffany,
Thanks for taking the time to send a note. I admire church planters and recognize how tough it can be. I would suggest that you guys have some type of oversight; someone with more experience that you trust and can look to for counsel and advice. This may be available through a denomination or a larger church in the area. There are some great church planting groups that provide good support as well. I like the Association of Related Churches (ARC). Co-leading is especially tricky and, honestly, is rarely successful. I actually did the co-leader things about 20 years ago. It is possible but you guys have to be totally committed to the unique processes. I hope and pray that everything works out because we desperately need healthy church plants. I hope this helps, let me know if you need anything more. I would be happy to connect personally and, depending on where you guys are, I could even potentially come in for a consult.
Grace and peace to you!
Rick Whitter