E-Mail - 817-481-2559

Role at First Church: 
Associate Pastor - Evangelism and New Members 

Started on Staff: 
Rejoined the staff on January 1, 2007. Also served as Associate Pastor at First Church, Grapevine from 1996-2004.

Education/Background:
Cindy has a Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology and Religious Studies from Texas A&M University. She received a Masters of Divinity degree from TCU's Brite Divinity School in 1987 and was ordained that same year in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). In 1994, she received her Doctor of Ministry degree in Pastoral Counseling from TCU's Brite Divinity School. In addition, Cindy has completed three units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at Harris Methodist Ft. Worth in order to be credentialed and trained as a chaplain. Cindy has dual standing in both the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Methodist church, meaning she is qualified as an ordained clergyperson in both denominations.

Family: 
Married to Robin Ryan since 1985. Robin is an Area Superintendent in the Dallas ISD. Three children: a daughter, Daryl age 18 and two sons, Reed, age 15 and Graham, age 8. 

Favorite Scripture and why: 
Ephesians 3:20. The Message translation says, "God can do anything you know--far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! God does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, God's Spirit deeply and gently within us." I love this scripture because it reminds me of God's amazing, surprising way of working on us from the inside out. 

Favorite Movie: 
The Color Purple. This past spring I got to see The Color Purple on Broadway in New York City. It's such a great story about women, strength, community and God. I found myself singing, swaying, crying and laughing all at the same time. 

What I like best about my ministry: 
My passion is helping people connect to God. I'm happiest when I'm helping that happen whether it is through writing, preaching, teaching, pastoral care/chaplaincy or helping someone join our church and find an awesome place to serve. 

For fun I enjoy: 
Eating dark chocolate, drinking diet coke, reading, watching my kids' sporting activities, working out, going to Joe T Garcia's for Mexican food, spending time with my husband and laying on any beach, anytime for as long as anyone will let me!