Cris Rury

Cris Rury joined the Connect Team in June of 2022 and currently serves as our Executive pastor. Cris has served in ministry since 2000 as a middle school pastor, marriage/family pastor, campus pastor, and executive pastor at Compass Church in Salinas, California for 21 years prior to coming to Connect.

Cris has been involved in a lot of different areas of ministry. As a middle school pastor, Cris had a passion to see middle school students know Jesus for the first time and grow in their relationship with Him. When his kids got to the age of middle school Cris transitioned into marriage ministry where he led many marriage classes, couples retreats, weddings, and started a counseling ministry that is still thriving today. At that same time, the lead pastor asked Cris to also be the executive pastor. Cris oversaw 12 pastors and was a vital part of the church growth of the church. Cris also had the privilege of launching a brand new campus in Marina, California. The campus grew up to 100 adults in one year. When the lead pastor retired Cris felt God calling him to leave California and move cross country to North Carolina.

In his role, Cris is responsible for working with all of the staff members and preschool. Cris is also responsible for the finances of the church. Cris works closely with James to help guide the staff and the church according to Connects mission vision and values.  

Cris has been married to his wife Jacey since 1998. They have three children.

Cris is a graduate of Word of Life Bible Institute with an associate degree in Bible. Cris is also a graduate of Liberty University with a bachelor degree in Religion with an emphasis on youth ministry and a minor in Bible. Cris has completed leadership courses and ordination.  Cris has a desire to get his Master’s degree in the near future.