Dr. Rit Varriale is originally from Schenectady, New York. He became involved in the Baptist tradition while attending The Citadel. Upon graduation, Rit was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division.

In 1996, Rit entered the ministry and began his theological training receiving a M.Div. (Campbell University Divinity School), a Th.M. (Duke University Divinity School), and a D.Min. (Princeton Theological Seminary). From 1996-present he has served three congregations in North Carolina.