Bio

Pastor Ray Vernon is a strategic ministry operator, gifted communicator, and executive leader with a proven ability to scale systems and shepherd teams. As Executive Pastor and Chief of Staff at The Word Church—one of the fastest-growing churches in Northeast Ohio—he oversees cross-campus operations, organizational strategy, and ministry execution under the leadership of his father, Dr. R.A. Vernon.

From an early age, Pastor Ray embraced the call to ministry, as a teenager he launched The Outsiders, a youth ministry that attracted more than 400 students weekly, and organizing major gatherings like the L.I.T. (Leaders In Training) Conference, which drew nearly 2,000 attendees. His leadership extended into college, where he co-founded The Melting Pot, which became Ashland University’s largest student-led ministry.

Today, Pastor Ray leads with a unique blend of executive presence and generational relatability. He leads The Young Followers, one of the fastest-growing young adult ministries in the region. Pastor Ray is a sought-after speaker whose insight and authenticity have made him a trusted voice for both emerging leaders and seasoned pastors. His ability to connect across generations continues to draw invitations nationwide.

In addition to his church leadership, Pastor Ray is the founder and CEO of VARR, LLC—a digital media platform curating authentic Gospel-centered content—and VARR Studios, a creative storytelling company dedicated to helping ministries and brands bring their stories to life.

A Cleveland native, Pastor Ray holds a degree in Religion with a minor in Business from Ashland University and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Ashland Seminary. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He and his wife Anasja are the proud parents of two children, R.A. Vernon III and Morae Vernon. Whether from the pulpit, the boardroom, or the studio, Pastor Ray brings clarity, energy, and innovation to every space he leads.