A product of the North Georgia Appalachians, Ronnie claims he barely survived the fire-and-brimstone instruction of his hard shell Baptist-reared childhood. Yet, recognizing God’s sense of humor, Ronnie has spent his adulthood in Christian ministry, preaching in and protesting against, loving and leaving, running away from and returning to the church. The faith he is trying to keep isn't in organized religion, however. It is in Jesus.

In addition to the pastorate, Ronnie has been a hospital chaplain, a leader in social justice ministries, and a nationally syndicated columnist. His weekly column “Keeping the Faith” is in 70 North American outlets with a circulation of more than six million readers.

He is the author of multiple books including Leaving Religion, Following Jesus and The Jesus Tribe. Visit Ronnie’s website at www.ronniemcbrayer.me.