Pastor Eric Stricklin comes to St. Paul UCC after serving churches in Chicago, IL; Coloma, MI; and Canton, OH. He received a bachelor degree in Religious Studies and Christian Education from Defiance College and a Master of Divinity degree from Chicago Theological Seminary.
Pastor Eric loves preaching and teaching and has a deep love of theology and the bible. He sees himself as a serious theologian who doesn’t take himself seriously. He has a particular interest in intergenerational ministry and working to ensure that Christ followers of all ages feel they have an important role in the life and mission of the church. A key element of his ministry is to be out in the community, becoming a familiar and helpful face to all neighbors.
Pastor Eric is passionate about his work with young people. In his previous church, his ministry focused on youth and families. He is also a dedicated coach, having worked with high school football and middle school wrestling programs. He sees coaching as an extension of his ministry, allowing him to build relationships. Growing up in Portage, MI, Pastor Eric is excited to return home to Michigan. He and his wife Rita, an educator, enjoy attending sports events, reading and taking nature hikes with their rescue dog, Hank.