A Shared Vision
(and a Shared Cigar)
John and Sue Rayls
Written by: Shari Martin
Dr. John and Sue Rayls’ story began over 50 years ago in a way few stories do today: on a blind date. Just four months after that blind date, they were married. And no, it wasn’t the newlyweds who shared a cigar. More about that later in the story.
The path that God led them down from the start of their marriage was not easy. He put a calling on their hearts to serve others. Along the way, John earned a PhD in Religion (Ecclesiology) and master’s degrees in theology and education. Sue earned two master’s degrees in education and library science along the way as well.
For many years, John served as an Anglican priest and church planter. He helped start and mentor new congregations all around the country.
Those of you who are, or have been, pastors’ wives understand there is often pressure that comes with being in that position. There’s criticism from those who may disagree with the pastor’s sermons, leadership style, or theology. Instead of addressing the pastor directly, they vent to the pastor’s wife. Sue remembers those times:
“Being a pastor’s wife, there were pressures people don’t always see. That’s why places of peace and rest matter so much.”
Earlier in their ministry, a friend gave them several gifts over many years that they would never forget. It was fully paid time away at a resort to rest and reconnect. John said, “It’s a gift we’ve never forgotten, and something we’ve always wanted to pass on to other young couples.” Sue added, “When we got away, I felt nature speaking to me, drawing my attention back to Him.”
John spent seven years as chaplain for the Indianapolis Colts, serving players, coaches, and staff during the many challenges that face an NFL football team.
Like so many who serve in ministry, John and Sue experienced firsthand the pressures that come when you focus your efforts on helping and counseling others. They were dealing with financial strain, long hours, and the need for more rest and quiet time.
After decades of service, John and Sue retired in 2017 and made their way to East Tennessee in 2018 based on a recommendation from a friend. They knew one couple in Crossville, TN who had moved there from their church in Texas.
Finally arriving in East Tennessee, they quickly found community through Bible studies and new friendships. John recalled, “It wasn’t long after that another unexpected connection began to form.”It started simply: with cigars. Through a local group and a neighbor connection, John met Oliver Dossmann, the founder and president of EdenRidge.
What began as casual conversation over cigars in a friend’s home soon grew into something more meaningful. They had a shared vision of helping provide a place of rest for missionaries and others who serve tirelessly to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to the lost.
“I had only known Oliver for about six months,” John said, “but that night, just sitting together, the conversation was affirming. Our shared vision was one that we wanted to explore.”
Not long after, John visited EdenRidge. John said, “What I found there was so different from other pastors’ retreat experiences. There was no pressure, no packed schedules, and no expectations. There was just a sense of calm.”
John added, “When I talked with Oliver about his clear vision for EdenRidge, everything made sense to me.”
Their shared vision led to a deeper connection. As John and Sue’s friendship with Oliver grew, so did their involvement with EdenRidge. Today, John serves on the EdenRidge board, helping steward the vision that God put on both his and Sue’s hearts so many decades ago.
You can learn more about Dr. John, his career, and his authored works at:
https://www.jbrayls.com/
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