Our Team

Richard Pope is the Lead Pastor of Canvas Church, which he helped plant in 2021 with a vision to reach the lost, equip the found, and send the called. Under his leadership, Canvas has seen hundreds come to faith in Jesus and has helped plant churches throughout Maryland.

In addition to pastoring Canvas, Richard serves as a Church Planting Catalyst with the Send Network and as the Prayer and Mobilization Missionary for the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware—equipping churches, championing prayer, and caring for pastors across the region. He has preached to thousands around the country, sharing a message of hope and revival wherever God sends him.

But titles don’t tell the whole story. In 2021, Richard was diagnosed with terminal cancer. What was meant to be the end became a new beginning—God began shrinking the cancer and expanding Richard’s heart for ministry. His story was featured nationally on NAMB’s Terminal podcast and continues to shape the way he leads: with urgency, authenticity, and hope.

Richard is married to Payton, who serves with the BCM/D providing care for church planters’ wives and working on the communications team. They live in Salisbury with their beloved German Shepherd, Mearsha (yes, she’s the best dog ever).

Whether he’s preaching on Sundays, walking alongside a new believer, or writing poetry in the margins, Richard lives to pursue relationship, revival, and restoration.