Dr. Rick Cantrell is a decorated U.S. Army Colonel who faithfully served his country as a military chaplain for over two decades before retiring in March 2023. He was ordained by the International Ministerial Fellowship on September 10, 2000, and holds numerous degrees including: a Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity from Emory University, Chandler School of Theology, a Master of Strategic Studies from the War College, a Master of Arts in Counseling from Webster University, and a Bachelor's in Bible from Southeastern University.

 

In addition to his extensive military career, Pastor Rick has also served the local church in various pastoral roles over the course of his ministry. 

 

After already joining The First Baptist Church of Cocoa in 2025 as a member, Pastor Rick was voted in by the church body to serve as the Associate Pastor of Young Adults in January 2026. Pastor Rick gladly volunteers his time in discipling and equipping our young adults. 

 

Pastor Rick has been married to his wife, Robin, since 1987 and together they have two children, Savannah and Eliza, and two grandchildren, Ansel and Honor.