Leadership & Staff
Lead Pastor: Gregg Jennings
Gregg grew up in the Show-Me State which explains the St. Louis Cardinal support group at Common Ground. After graduating from Ozark Christian College, Gregg moved to Northern Virginia where he worked for New Life Christian Church for three years before moving to Boston to study theology. While in New England, Gregg studied at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, earning degrees in Religion and in Global Missions. He moved back to Virginia in 2009 to become the lead pastor here at Common Ground. Gregg loves music and movies, a great book and exploring the depths of friendship and worship.
Contact Gregg here at gregg@commongroundva.com
Worship & Outreach Pastor: Melissa Southall
Melissa graduated from the University of Mary Washington, joined the Common Ground staff in June of 2014, and was ordained in 2021. She has a passion for leading worship and for serving in the beautiful city of FXBG. She married her high school sweetheart, has a beautiful daughter, and one pup. Melissa loves few things more than a good cup of coffee, plants, and getting outside with her family. At CG, Melissa oversees the areas of Worship, Outreach, & Hospitality.
Contact Melissa here at melissa@commongroundva.com
Director of Ministry Operations: Emily Rittler
Emily and her husband Caleb moved to the Fredericksburg area in August 2015 after graduating from Virginia Tech. After a few years in the surrounding area, they moved to Downtown Fredericksburg in 2021 and found their church home at Common Ground. Emily is mom to two awesome boys, loves spending time being active outside, and learning new things. She serves on our CG Staff as our Director of Ministry Operations, combining her ministry background with organizational gifting to help execute our vision for Common Ground and our members.
Contact Emily here!
CG Kids & Student Coordinators:
Sara Flathers & Andrew Burlingame
Sara has been part of the Common Ground Staff since the Spring of 2024 and serves faithfully in the area of our CG Kids! She has a heart to see our children and leaders grow and thrive, and she works hard so that our children and families can flourish here at Common Ground!
Andrew is our newest staff member, joining the team in Fall 2025. He has loved and led in our Student ministry over the last few years, and we are thankful to have him leading our middle and high school age students!