Rick Walston

Rick Walston is an Adjunct Associate Professor of Ministry at Hope International University, with a career spanning over four decades in church ministry and academic leadership. He currently serves as Senior Minister at Marion Church of Christ (2010-present) and Adjunct Professor of Christian Ministry at Crossroads College (2011-present).

• Hope International University (Adjunct Associate Professor of Ministry)
• Crossroads College (Past Adjunct Professor and Vice President of Academics)
• Multiple pastoral leadership roles across Ohio, Massachusetts, and Illinois

His educational background includes a Doctor of Ministry from Ashland Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care & Counseling from Lincoln Christian Seminary, and a Bachelor’s degree in Church Growth & World Mission from Lincoln Christian College.

Academic interests focus on practical ministry applications, including preaching, pastoral counseling, leadership development, and New Testament studies. His work emphasizes bridging theological education with real-world church effectiveness and family dynamics.

Publications and presentations reflect on-the-ground ministry practices, such as his D.Min. project designing a parent training program and delivering workshops at churches/conventions across the U.S. on church growth, parenting, and leadership.

Key affiliations include membership in Delta Epsilon Chi Honor Society and service on the Council on Accreditation for biblical higher education.

His professional practice combines pastoral roles with academic administration, including teaching courses like Ethics & Boundaries, Pastoral Counseling, and Family Crisis Management, alongside mission trips to Guinea Bissau and Zimbabwe.