Meet
Pastor Ryan
Apostle Ryan J. Fontenot, Sr. is a transformative leader dedicated to seeing lives changed through the power and love of Jesus Christ. He serves as the Lead Pastor of New Song Church & Ministries in Denver, Colorado. His journey began at the age of ten under the leadership of Pastor Harold J. Hicks at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. In December 2000, he was licensed to preach, where he initially served as a Sunday School teacher and Children's Minister. He quickly gained recognition as a sought-after Youth Minister, inspiring young people through preaching at youth conferences and revivals across Denver, Aurora, and throughout the United States.
In 2003, Pastor Ryan founded R.J.F. Ministries, motivated by a desire to bridge the generational gaps within churches. After nine years of dedicated service, he felt a divine call to the pastorate, and went on to establish Higher Anointing Christian Center, later renamed "The Rock" Church of Denver. His ordination through the International Pentecostal Holiness Churches (IPHC) marked a significant milestone, as his anointing gained recognition across diverse ethnicities and denominations.
Apostle Ryan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education and multiple certifications through the Evangelical Training Association, where he is credentialed as a certified instructor. His influence extends beyond the pulpit; he has been featured on Daystar Television Network, in the Denver Weekly News, and the Denver Post.
Apostle Ryan was affirmed and consecrated as an Apostle/Bishop on August 26, 2016, under Living Word Ministries International, led by Apostle John Brannon. Apostle Ryan is the founder and overseer of the Oasis Apostolic Network, an affiliate of Pilgrim Assemblies International (PAI), Inc. Apostle Ryan also serves in PAI’s Western Regional division.
In July 2021, Pastor R. Loren Sandford, the founding pastor of New Song Church and Ministries, considered Apostle Ryan as his successor. Following Pastor Sandford's sudden passing in the fall of 2021, Apostle Ryan was appointed Lead Pastor on January 30, 2022, by Founding Co-Pastor Beth Sandford and the church board. New Song Church & Ministries is a Spirit-filled, charismatic, intergenerational, and interracial community dedicated to demonstrating and exhibiting the kingdom of God in all relationships and ministries.
Above all his accomplishments, Apostle Ryan cherishes his family, which serves as the cornerstone of his life and ministry. On January 15, 2022, he married Lady Alanes T. Fontenot, affectionately known as Lady Lani, who actively supports her husband’s vision. Together, they are loving and devoted parents to six beautiful children.