Apostle Sam Wagner is the Senior Pastor and Founder of New Foundation Church International in Charlotte, North Carolina—a thriving, non-denominational ministry he established with his wife, Dr. Rico Wagner, in January 2010. With a dynamic call to lead, build, and reform culture for the Kingdom of God, Apostle Wagner carries a unique passion for motivating people toward real and lasting change. His leadership is marked by bold vision, strategic insight, and a heart to see individuals discover identity, purpose, and spiritual maturity.

 

Apostle Wagner ministers with a candid, fiery, fun, and prophetic style that resonates across generations and backgrounds. God has used his voice to carry the Gospel across the United States and around the world, leading countless lives to transformation through the power of Jesus Christ.

 

His ministry influence extends into media and film. Apostle Wagner appeared in the DeadRaiser documentary, a film rooted in Matthew 10:8, exploring the power of resurrection in modern times. In 2015, he served as a co-host on Project Afterlife, a docu-series that aired on the Destination America Network, which examined near-death experiences and miracles of restoration.

 

Before stepping into full-time ministry, Apostle Wagner built a strong foundation of service and discipline. He served in the United States Marine Corps, and as a North Carolina State Highway Patrol Sergeant, where he served with honor before retiring in 2011.

 

Apostle Wagner is a devoted husband and family man. He has been married to his wife, Dr. Rico Wagner, for 29 years. Together they have five children—Samyah, Stephon, Tyler, Ian, and Shiann—and one grandson, Ace, who brings joy and legacy to their home.

 

Through preaching, leadership, mentorship, and community impact, Apostle Sam Wagner remains committed to building strong believers on a strong foundation—Jesus Christ.

Dr. Rico Wagner, affectionately known as Lady, is a global voice and international speaker, accomplished author, and transformational leader. She serves alongside her husband, Apostle Sammie L. Wagner Jr., at New Foundation Church International, where her passion for faith and family is at the heart of her ministry.

Dr. Rico’s greatest accomplishment is her family—her four children: Samyah, Stephon, Tyler, and Ian. Family additions include her daughter-in-love Shiann and her beloved grandson, Ace.

As the Founder of Desert Rose Women’s Ministry, with over 980 women strong Dr. Rico has empowered hundreds of women to rise into purpose, leadership, and spiritual maturity. Her message is bold, practical, and prophetic—equipping women to become better spiritually, relationally, and professionally.

Dr. Rico’s ministry impact extends beyond the United States. Dr. Rico Wagner has ministered internationally in Portugal, Canada, Paris, London, and the Bahamas, carrying a global message of faith, resilience, leadership, and restoration to women and leaders around the world. She is recognized as an anointed and uncompromising teacher of the Word of God whose voice transcends borders and cultures.

Outside of ministry, Dr. Rico Wagner is a serial entrepreneur, she owns 2 locations of Heritage Home Care Agency Inc. In Charlotte and Greensboro NC, and RW Consulting.

Dr. Rico Wagner is a Native of Charlotte NC. She holds a BS, Executive MBA and a PhD in Organizational Management and Health Administration.  Dr. Rico is also a Certified John Maxwell Trainer and Coach.

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Dr. Rico Wagner Signature Quote:
“No matter what season we face, the manifestation of what we are believing for shows
itself in response to our faith.”