Morningside Celebrates the Life of Pastor Rick Pinette

II Corinthians 1:3  Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is the Father who is full of mercy and all comfort.

Our Dear Partners and Friends,

It is with deeply saddened hearts that we must inform you that our loving friend, Pastor Rick Pinette, member of the Jim Bakker Show Morningside Band and Pastor of Morningside Church, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, while leading the congregation in worship.  This is a loss that deeply hits home.

Our thoughts go out to his family, his wife Cheryl and daughter Olivia. Please keep them both in your prayers as they find their way through the grief from losing both husband and father.  Pastor Rick adored his family, and spoke of them as the greatest blessings God could possibly have given to him.

Rick Pinette was a 6’6”, larger than life personality, big hearted encourager. Many people have spoken the same sentiment many times,  “He believed in me and helped me to believe in myself!”

This post, written to Rick on Facebook by one of his many friends, describes how many of us here at Morningside feel about him:

“Standing next to you I always felt kind of small and childlike, until you talked to me and made me feel big and important! You taught so many people about love, peace, joy, and understanding, the spiritual side of life – the Kingdom. You fed the homeless, you encouraged the weak, and you loved the unloved – and you did it unconditionally.”

As a musician, Pastor Rick was an amazingly gifted singer and songwriter. His songs had a way of reaching directly into your heart and were inspired by his own journey with the Lord.  Worship brought him a joy that would illuminate the whole room.  He said that any song could be made into a melody to worship Jesus and somehow he ALWAYS found a way to make that happen!

Rick Pinette was so in love with Jesus that he often said that when it was time for him to go to heaven he wanted to be at the pulpit, worshiping God with all of his might. This past Palm Sunday morning, as Pastor Rick, the congregation and worship team were singing “Blessed Assurance,” hands raised in praise and love for our Lord, the angels came to take Rick home to Jesus.

A celebration of the life of Rick Pinette will be held Friday, March 25th on Grace Street at Morningside. Viewing will begin at 3:00 pm and the memorial service at 4:00pm. Please come and join us.

For those unable to join us at Morningside, you can still celebrate Pastor Rick’s life by joining us via our Live Stream.

Morningside will truly miss this amazing man of God! And I will miss my friend. But let us rejoice together in knowing Pastor Rick Pinette, our wonderful and faithful friend is with Jesus!

Love,

Jim's Signature Mailchimp

Blessed Assurance

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! Oh what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation purchase of God, Born of His Spirit washed in His Blood.

This is my story this is my song, Praising my savior all the day long;
This is my story this is my song, Praising my savior all the day long;

Perfect submission, perfect delight, Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
Angels descending bring from above Echoes of mercy, whispers of love.

This is my story this is my song, Praising my savior all the day long;
This is my story this is my song, Praising my savior all the day long;

Perfect submission, all is at rest, I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with His goodness, lost in His love.

37 thoughts on “Morningside Celebrates the Life of Pastor Rick Pinette”

  1. I noticed Pastor Rick’s absence on the show today and I am saddened to learn of his passing.
    It is some comfort to know, that he was doing something he truly loved to do, but what a void his passing has left, for all who were blessed to meet him.
    I met Rick and Olivia, in a Walmart store in 2015, his words a prophetic message, that only a true man of God, could have delivered. My heart goes out to Olivia, as I know this must be a truly difficult time of grieving and loss. It was so obvious, how very close your relationship was and the measure of love and respect you had for your father. 2 Thess 3:16 Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. (KJV)

    The words of the Apostle Paul so describe Pastor Rick, as he was certainly BOLD in Christ, in life, up to his death and no doubt beyond. Philippians 1:20 King James Version…

    “According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death”.

  2. I did not know Rick personally,but I was blessed so many times hearing songs he wrote and the incredible encouragement that he freely gave through his sermons. My favorite was the mirror one. I cried with that, but God healed old wounds for me and for so many others. I have tears thinking that he is no longer at Morningside….but I rejoice that God took him home doing what he loved to do ..God honored that request…My heart goes out to Cheryl and Olivia.Rick was unique and much loved by so many..even though I never met him personally I loved him as well.God used Rick to bless me and many others.with the gift of music and encouragement. I am praying through tears forCheryl and Olivia ((hugs)

  3. I was very saddened to learn of Pastor Rick’s passing, but I feel encouraged to know that he went to be with the Lord doing what he wanted to do – and that was praising and worshiping the Lord. To hear him preach was very uplifting to me and I felt very blessed in spirit. My love, prayers and blessing go out to his family. May God comfort and bless them all.

  5. When I came to the EXPO last summer, went on a tour of the condo’s with Pastor Rick’s wife, Cheryl. Did not know that she was the Pastor’s wife. Had a wonder talk and walk. Then I found out that she was the wife of Pastor Rick. Sweet and Talented Man. Could make up a song on the spur of a moment! What a gift to the body of Christ. He will be sorely missed. Grace of the Lord to the Family in this time of sorrow. He was one of the good ones!

  6. My sympathies to Pastor Jim Bakker and his wife Lori on their loss of Pastor Rick Pinette. I was very much moved by Pastor Bakker’s service and tribute. It is apparent how much he loved Pastor Rick saying that he was one of his best friends, a brilliant genius and the best music man in the world. Pastor Bakker’s words for the widow were also very comforting — extending work opportunities to ensure that she will be able to remain at Morningside and hopefully realize the American dream of owning her own home. I was intrigued by the possibility of a DVD of Pastor Rick’s best moments — singing and preaching. Perhaps the sales of such a DVD would be helpful to his family.

  7. Cheryl, We just found out. We are praying for you and Olivia. We consider you family, let me know if Lenny and I can help you in any way. We love you all so much. God so honored Rick by taking him home during worship. What a legacy he leaves. Rick will always live in our thoughts. He changed all of our lives. We all love Jesus with more passion because of Rick. God so honors Rick in heaven. We can’t wait to see him again at the bridal supper of the lamb. May Jesus fill you with peace and comfort. He is your husband and all will be provided. You will have no needs. Amen. Love you so very much

  9. As an EXPO veteran, we are heartbroken for the loss of precious Pastor Rick. We so wanted to return to Morningside and see Pastor Rick again. What an absolutely anointed funeral service and home going celebration for him. How kind of the family to allow us “Morningside Family From Afar” to grieve with them and share each precious moment. How very thoughtful and “others-centered” to allow an open casket viewing. My psychologist friends say that we need to see our loved ones so we have closure. Yet we must remember how difficult that must have been for Ms. Cheryl and Olivia. I was so impressed with the Morningside Family, Ricky Bakker (so good to see him), Harmony & Caleb and the Band and Singers, and feel such care and love for Ms. Cheryl. What a brave and commanding lady; I will pray for her and her children as they walk through the grief. How wonderful for Pastor Jim to speak of providing for her and taking care of her. I cried through the whole service and hope Jim decides to air it again. Too, I was so happy to see Kevin Shorey again; such a kindred spirit with precious Pastor Rick. Again, sending love and condolences to Ms. Cheryl and all the precious Morningside Family. Wish we could be with you.

    Lynn and Ed Brady

  10. I was the “technical director” at Better Life Community Church, in Kissimmee, FL I was his armor bearer for a period of time, his maintenance guy and he is the reason I am still alive today, literally. He saved my marriages and there were many selfless hours talking and understanding my struggle, that is just one example of the love he shared. He was prophesied over by T.D. Jakes at a conference about the impact that he would have in this world. Obviously, that was true. When they moved to MO. I wished I had been more connected, but even so, he never forgot to wish me a happy birthday or holiday. I will miss him like a father, as many times he was one to me. Sing with your incredible animation in the Heavens, Pastor Rick! And it won’t suprise me to hear you in the thunder-storms!

  11. 🙁 🙁 CRYING AS I WRITE THIS ……Rick was our BEST FRIEND…..There are no words to express how brokenhearted we are to lose our BEST FRIEND and brother in Christ. He and Cheryl have been such a BIG part of our FAMILY in spiritual growth to us and our children Jonathan and Michael for the past 25 years. Dear Lord, help us all to wipe the tears of sadness and embrace his eternal life with you until we meet again. He will be FOREVER in our hearts until we meet in Heaven where we can continue our friendship that will always be cherished. Bless Cheryl and Olivia as they go through this time of sorrow. May his love and wisdom continue to be shared through those he made disciples of.
    LOVE ONE ANOTHER every moment and don’t wait to ask the Lord into your own Heart so that you will be able to have eternal life in Jesus and join Rick in HEAVEN.
    ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER,
    Karen, Kim, Jonathan, & Michael Bolten
    XOXO

  13. I did not know Rick personally but I heard him sing and create songs and diddys just out of the blue. He was so funny. These wonderful tributes about him are a testimony of his life and how he gave glory to his Lord. Now he is with his reward and savior.

  14. My heart is broken for this precious family. I knew Rick well as he and Cheryl spent almost a year sharing their lives with Greg and me in our home. Rick was a man who really cared about people and always made your feel good about yourself and others. He was a bible sharing man who loved Jesus so very much, that he gave his life to others everyday. And, what a talent…..oh my goodness!!! I will miss him so very much and I want to thank you, Rick, for your love and sharing you wonderful family with all of us. I love you Cheryl and Olivia. I remember one song that he wrote at our house, ” Turn to Me “

  15. When I hear about special people who have died and gone to heaven, I remember a line from the Wizard of Oz: :”It’s not how much a person loves, but how much he is loved by others.” Truly this is Rick… He has left so much for others to remember about him, and has touched many people in many ways… He indeed served his Godly purpose…. See you Rick, in Heaven!!!

  16. I just read that Pastor Rick passed on to be with the Lord Sunday. I was actually on the phone with a Morningside customer service person ordering some product when I saw the news. I burst into tears and could hardly fill my order. Pastor Rick was the kindest, most fun loving, selfless man one could meet. He reminded me of precious Kevin Shorey in spirit and humour, all love and all Jesus. When we came to the EXPOS, Pastor Rick was humble, always giving honour to Pastor Jim & Lori and all his peers. His joy was infectious; no matter how tired he was, he never failed to reflect and speak the positive and serve as many as he could. I am so glad he is with Jesus, but so sad he is not with us any more. What a hard soldier to replace. Our love and prayers are with his family, Jim and Lori and all the family and staff. Love Always,

  17. I used to see Rick and his band Oak and then the Rick Pinette band on a regular basis back home in Maine. Saddened to hear of his passing. I had no idea he was living here in Missouri so close to me. Great musical talent. Prayers for his family.

  19. Rick and Cheryl changed my life. Took me in when I was a lost pregnant teen. I lost touch with them over the years, but think of them both very often. I drove by were we lived in Windham yesterday. Oh how I miss them! I’m truly heartbroken to hear of Ricks passing!!

  20. God Bless him. I remember hearing him do his re-enactments of Rod Stewart on the show and his great vocals. What a great talent he was and he will be missed. My love goes out to his family and friends at Morningside.

  21. I miss the Morningside Family and I know that they all are saddened as I am by Pastor Rick’s passing yet rejoicing he is with the King of the Universe receiving his reward of faithfulness! I loved his voice and music and attitude. I know he was beyond happy fulfilling his job there as Pastor and that he went to his reward happy. That is a blessing of God. I am sure the Lord will have him play and sing for Him. His God given talents were well used here and God will surely use them there in heaven. My prayers are with his beautiful wife and daughter.

  22. Hello – I’m from Lewiston, Maine, one of Rick’s many music venues where he was known as one of Maine’s rock artists. I am a faithful believer of the Lord. Knowing how Rick went from such a pull of possibilities in the world of rock music – where he could have been famous, to casting himself aside to give the true King the throne is such an incredible example for those who knew him as a “rock star.” He traded “rock star” for “the ROCK of Salvation!” What a testimony!!! God bless his family who will be reunited with him.

  23. My wife and family have know Rick since he first came to the Lord. We were part of his worship team at our church until he moved to Florida. Twice while on vacation from Maine, we visited with Rick & Cheryl, spending time both at their home and at Disney World. Guidance for Cheryl. the Emerys

  24. I was blessed to meet Pastor Rick and Cheryl last September when we came to Morning side to worship with them at a church service. He welcomed us to come up front to sit. He asked our names and took my name “Cheri” and sang “Cheri Baby” What a wonderful warm man of God! His wife Cheryl was just as sweet. My prayers are with his family.

  25. I just to send my condolence from my family to Pastor Rick’s family and to Morningside. I may not have met him personally but as I read the testimony of the person who posted on facebook I was moved with not only the love but the respect in which the spoke of Brother Rick. May God be with his family during this difficult time. Jeff (P.J.) Zaidel

  26. Dear Jim and Lori, It is like God is taking home His people, I guess the reasons alot of us are still here,it He just isn’t through with us YET!!! I loved seeing Rick on the show! Yes he will be missed physically, and those left behind do the suffering! And yet Beautiful in His sight is the death of His saints! Brother Rick is now worshiping with the HEAVENLY HOST,and His angels!! I love you and Lori,and all God’s people! Love In Christ,brother Jeremiah J. Larkin. P.S. Dont we all want to die while praising or praying to our Savior,like brother Rick was!!

  29. I am so sorry 🙁 Please know we are praying for his wife and family .Also, Jim ,Lori ,and family ,for all of you at Morningside . <3 Wish we could be there . This is such a shock to all of us . He will be missed ..

  31. Rest in Peace! I love you, Rick! You will be deeply missed! Thank you so much for making me feel loved when I came to Morningside <3 I will be praying for your beautiful wife and daughter and all those who will miss your smile and happy greeting.

  33. My heart is so grieved to learn this. I wondered why they cut away from the service on Roku Sunday but had no idea it was because of this. His absence will leave such a void but who he was and what he shared will live with in us the rest of our lives. My heart and prayers go out to his family and all of Morningside…….

  37. This is so sad. I enjoyed his music so much. I’m a musican myself so I do understand just how much he will be missed. Not only his abilities but such talent. Bless each of you who knew him and his precious family.

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