Our Staff
Ryan Porche
Spiritual Formation Minister
Ryan grew up in Abilene, TX where he was a part of the Highland Church and graduated from Abilene High in 2000. He graduated from Abilene Christian University in 2004 after studying Ministry and Music.
Ryan served the Highland Church of Christ in Memphis, TN as the Worship & Young Adults Minister. In 2007, he married Claudia, a speech-therapist from Searcy, AR. Later that year, they joined another young family to start a network of house churches in Uptown, Dallas, TX. This network, called Storyline Christian Community, still seeks to help people discover their own place within the greater story of God.
Beginning in 2011, Ryan served as the Worship & Spiritual Formation Minister for the Northwest Church in Seattle, WA. In 2012, he completed his certification as a Christian Life Coach. In 2015, Ryan joined the Southwest Church leadership as the Small Groups Minister.
Ryan and Claudia have two boys: Kaden and Elijah.
Ryan's Q&A...
What is an interesting fact about you?
There was one occasion when I dunked a basketball on a 10’ goal. Do not ask me to do it again.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy hiking, bike riding, swimming and water sports, movies, music, computers, cars, military aircraft, and eating. I’m best at eating.
Favorite Bible verse?
1 Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Mac or PC?
I’m a Mac guy. I watch the Apple Keynotes, and I read Macworld magazine. You could say I’m a nerd. I prefer Power User.
If you could share just one of Jesus' teachings with someone
what would it be?
The Story of the Prodigal Son, from Luke 15. I believe this story tells us so much about the nature of God and the nature of humans.
What do you love about Southwest?
I love how the Southwest Church is committed to making disciples through genuine relationships.