Ross Anderson is a perfect fit to lead the mission of Utah Advance. After 30 years of ministry in Utah, he has been blessed with insight and influence that equips him to have an impact in this mission field.
Former Mormon
Born and raised in an active, multi-generation Latter-day Saint family, Ross understands LDS beliefs and culture and how to engage them.
Church Planter
Ross started a new congregation from scratch, so he knows the emotional, spiritual, financial, family, and ministry challenges that church planters face.
Veteran Utah Pastor
Having served as a pastor in Utah for over three decades, Ross understands the issues churches face in a strong religious culture. He knows first-hand the challenges people face in sharing their faith with Latter-day Saints and in leaving the LDS church. He currently serves part time as a teaching pastor, mentor, and member of the Vision Team at Alpine Church and as a contributing editor at pursueGOD.org.
Education
Ross has a Master’s degree, with a focus on cross-cultural ministry, from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He also earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Salt Lake Theological Seminary. The focus of his doctoral project was the transition of former Mormons into traditional Christian churches.
Author
Ross’ three published books have been well received: Understanding the Book of Mormon, Understanding Your Mormon Neighbor and Jesus Without Joseph: Following Christ after Leaving Mormonism. He has also contributed chapters and articles to several journals and books.
Church Plant Catalyst
Ross has studied church planting and played a large part in planting many churches in and around Utah. He has served as a regional church planting director and as part of the national church planting team for his denomination.
Testimony
Ross left Mormonism at age 18. Recognizing a spiritual need that was not met by works-oriented religion, at age 20 he had a defining moment of trusting in Jesus alone to be right with God. He was discipled as a Christ-follower in various college and church ministries.
A Church Planting Legacy
Ross has had a pivotal role in starting several new churches:
- Wasatch Church, Roy UT—1983
- Christ Community Church, Clearfield UT—2003
- Christ Community was instrumental in planting Refuge Church, Ogden UT—2009
- Lifeline Community, West Jordan UT—2005
- Genesis Project, Ogden UT—2007
- Genesis Project has planted 6 more churches in Utah, Montana, Louisiana, Florida, and Colorado.
- Mountain View Fellowship, Heber City UT—2008
- Water’s Edge, Stansbury Park UT—2009
- Alpine Church, Brigham City UT—2012