Who's Who 2012 - Ron Watts

The Rev. Ron Watts, senior and founding pastor at LaCroix Church in Cape Girardeau, has been with the congregation since it started in 1988. Since then, he's led the church to serve not only in Cape Girardeau, but around the world. Locally, the church financially supports or volunteers with the Salvation Army, Safe House for Women, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, area food banks, The Bridge -- an outreach center in South Cape -- and more. This year, LaCroix is planning missions to Haiti, Guatemala, Paris and Africa. The church also partners with churches and ministries in Russia, Mozambique and Mexico. In addition to his work with the church, Watts is active in the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce. He's married to Linda and they have four children: Stephanie, Anthony, David and Ryan.

__What do you love about your work?__

I love being part of something that is significant; that is making an eternal difference in people's lives and is helping people in varied and practical ways. There is no more significant movement on the planet than the church of Jesus Christ! It's the hope of the world and God's primary instrument for redeeming this hurting, broken world. That I get to be a part of it is simply amazing.

__How is your career field changing?__

These are days of dramatic change; helping the church keep up and even try to stay ahead of the curve is a great challenge. What worked yesterday probably won't work today. Whether it's how we communicate the message of Christianity, the way people get involved with organizations, the way we worship or the way we interact with culture, we are facing a tidal wave of change.

__What inspires you?__

When people come to know the hope that is found in Jesus Christ, publicly confess him and live out their faith in bold and dramatic service to the world.

__What's the secret to your success?__

That I'm surrounded by a lot of gifted people who are willing to serve and give tirelessly of themselves.