Staff Pastors
Senior Pastor, Rick Addison
Rick's ministry journey began as a senior in high school when, after making a personal commitment to Jesus Christ, he became aware that God had a special purpose for his life – to serve as a pastor of a local church. After graduating from
Rick and Karon have been married since August 1974. For their entire ministry journey Karon has been a true partner in ministry serving in a variety of capacities in the various churches they have pastored. Rick and Karon have two sons, Eric and Jonathan, who are both married and each have one child.
Rick’s primary interests outside of the church are his two grandchildren, Ryan and Talia. In fact he has said many times that his two favorite people in the world are his two grandchildren and his favorite title is “Papa”. He is also a car buff and loves to cruise in his old Corvette or on his motorcycle. Rick and Karon have a get away place in
Rick’s life verse is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”
Assistant Pastor, John Bartz
John has been married to Donna for 18 yrs. They have two children ages 12 and 10. He received his BA in Religion from
Young Adult / High School Pastor, James Pendleton
After serving 10 years in youth ministry and in a Senior Pastor role, James joined The Grace Place staff in June 2006. He has a B.S. in Missions and Biblical Studies from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MO. James has a passion to see people living life in authentic community while being the Church that God intended us to be. His desire is that we learn being the Church goes beyond the four walls of a building. He currently leads our High School ministry and Sojourn Gathering. James and his wife Kirsten have two awesome children, Kaliegh and Caleb.
Middle School Pastor, Eric Addison
Eric and his wife Blanca's passion is reaching others for Christ, with Eric's focus primarily on Middle School students and helping them to develop their relationship with Jesus Christ. Eric has been involved in youth ministry for over six years in one capacity or another. Eric and Blanca met at Palm Beach Atlantic University where Eric did his undergraduate work, and Blanca earned a masters degree in elementary education. Eric and Blanca have a 3 year old son, Ryan.
Children's Pastor, Rob Wright
Rob has been the Children's Pastor since March 2005. Rob worked in childrens ministry as a teen, here in Stuart. After attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and receiving a B.S. in Business Administration, Rob served as an officer in the United States Air Force. Rob and his wife Jean returned to Stuart and worked in a local children's ministry for seven years as Director of the Bus Ministry, Children's Church, and as a deacon. Rob also held various positions at Scripps Treasure Coast Publishing Company, including IT Manager until Rob and Jean were called to full time ministry at The Grace Place.
Jean is an Elementary School teacher in Martin County, and Rob and Jean have two precious children, Daron and Maggie. Rob & Jean are passionate about children's lives being changed through God's love and saving grace. Rob and the entire children’s ministry team seek to provide a safe, fun and exciting environment for kids to learn God’s truths, witness his kindness and grow spiritually. Rob's life verse is Isaiah 40:31, "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."