Pastor Eric Purser accepted the call to serve as a minister of the gospel through music at Ringgold First Baptist in 2017. Born and raised in Macon, GA, he developed his love of music in church, school, and community choirs and instrumental groups. Upon completing his Bachelor of Music in music education at the University of Georgia, where he marched with the Redcoat Band for 4 years, Eric pursued a band teaching career. He worked with elementary and middle school bands in Fort Valley (GA), Folkston (GA), and Jackson (GA) and earned his Master of Music degree from Columbus State University. While in Jackson, Eric discovered his calling to lead music in church while attending Towaliga Baptist Church, where he was later ordained for ministry. After two years of musical leadership at Towaliga, Eric accepted a as Associate Minister of Music at First Baptist Church of Blairsville, GA, where he served for seven years. During these years, Eric earned his Master of Theological Studies degree from Midwestern Baptist Seminary. Eric enjoys spending time with his wife Laura, who is a pianist and a music teacher at Oakwood Christian School, and their sons Ethan and Evan. He enjoys being outdoors camping, kayaking, hiking, biking or otherwise playing with the family, and watching UGA sports and all Atlanta area professional sports teams.