Ricky Chelette

Executive DIrector of Living Hope Ministries
817-276-6486
Visit the Living Hope Website

What year did you start working at First Baptist? 
1998  

Tell us how you came to know Christ: 
Alone, one night at the side of my bed I asked Christ to take control of my out-of-control life and rescue me from my own self-destructive self.  I heard of Christ through the faithful witness of some dear friends when I was a senior in High School.

What’s your favorite thing about your job? 
I get to see the Gospel transform the lives and hearts of men, women, and families around the world.  

What’s your favorite Bible verse currently? 
1 Cor. 6:9:10-11  

What do you feel like God is teaching you lately? 
That He is really BIG!  Much bigger than I can even put my mind around. He really is in control and causing all things to ultimately bring Him glory and honor. This truth allows me to feel much less anxiety about life and serve with more freedom.

What are your hobbies? 
I love to cook, paint, draw, sing, write, teach, fish, travel, spend time with my wife and dogs

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up and why? 
An Attorney, because I thought they made lots of money and I wanted to help people.  

Tell us a bit about your family? 
I am the oldest of four children. I have a brother who is 3 ½ years younger than me, another brother who is 15 years younger and a sister who is 18 years younger than me, all from the same mom and dad.  We grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana as a kid.  Two of my siblings, Brigitte and Troy, also attend FBCA.

What’s your favorite meal and who would be attending?
Well I LOVE FOOD, so saying I have a favorite is difficult. I can tell you it would NOT be Mexican, as I don’t really like Mexican food or Tex-Mex.  Probably something from a five star place in New Orleans  

Tell us a little known fact about yourself: 
I a really enjoy fishing and the outdoors (not really sure why folks are surprised at this, but they are). I also worked for years in construction and help build the house my parents live in.  As a teen I raised bromeliads and competed in numerous shows, winning many awards.  

Why should someone get involved at First Baptist Church Arlington? 
This is an amazing church that is incredibly healthy!  There is something here for everyone from birth until you see Jesus face to face.  We are not a place that merely talks about faith, we put feet to that faith and offer ministries for almost any need a person or family might need. FBCA is a full service church with people who are willing to invest deeply in God’s Kingdom through the lives of individuals. It is Biblically solid, socially conscious, and Christ-focused.  It is a wonderful and amazing place to do ministry and join with others on your pursuit of Christ-likeness.  I can’t think of being anywhere else!