Michael Ragsdale's life is a beautiful blend of church and music. From a young age, he was drawn to both.

Discovering the Power of Faith and Music in Muskogee

Church and Family: A Lifelong Journey

Michael Ragsdale proudly shares that he's been going to church his entire life. His parents have a picture of him playing the drums at just 2 years old, standing up and making music. Growing up in Muskogee, he combined these two passions and still does to this day. His father, David Ragsdale, is a longtime pastor at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. His father's teachings about having a personal relationship with Christ stuck with him.However, he never thought he'd follow in his father's footsteps into preaching initially. His first love was music. In school, he was involved in various sports like football and basketball. He excelled in track, qualifying for state multiple times. But even with his love for sports, music remained a significant part of his life.

Nervous at the Pulpit but Finding Peace

Recalling his first time preaching at Deans Chapel, Michael Ragsdale felt a wave of nervousness. There were so many people, and he questioned his decision. But once he stood up to preach, all the anxiety disappeared. He believes that every time he preaches, he's nervous until he starts speaking, and that's when he feels the power of God take over. He also emphasizes the importance of praying and studying before each sermon.His father was excited when he told him he was going to be a preacher. It's a significant moment in Muskogee's history, as his father is the first pastor to have two sons who pastor in the same city. Michael has a different preaching style from his father and brother, being perhaps louder.

The Impact of Music on Others

Michael enjoys seeing how music makes him and others feel. It allows him to escape and forget about the troubles of the day. Sometimes, on a bad day, he goes to the church and plays the piano for an hour or so. He also likes seeing people engaged and connected through music. If he gets calls on a Sunday evening, he'll go and help another church.He has been with the group Instrumental for 10 years, playing throughout Oklahoma. The group started as a gospel band but now plays various genres. His favorite is gospel because of the deep meaning behind it.

Coaches and Basketball: Building a Team

In basketball, Ragsdale played point guard. He faced the challenge of having a different head coach every year in high school, but they still managed to stay a good team. His coaches and fellow players had a big impact on him, teaching him the importance of being a team and building men for the future. He now seeks to instill these values in his own children.

Life in Muskogee: Home and Community

Asked how he came to be an Okie from Muskogee, he simply says he was born and raised here. His mother and father are from Muskogee, and he's been here his whole life. He loves the small town feel, where he can get to know everyone. He enjoys fellowshipping with different churches and seeing people at football games.To make Muskogee a better place to live, he believes there should be more things to do together as a community. There aren't enough activities for kids, and they often have to go to Tulsa.When asked who he admires most in Muskogee, he mentions his father and brother. They have had a big impact on him as he starts his new journey as a pastor. The most memorable thing for him was having his installation as pastor and receiving a key to the city.In his spare time, he spends it with his family and friends. He goes to football games with his high school-aged children and supports their sports activities.In 25 words or less, he describes Muskogee as a great place that every city should strive to be like.