He and his wife Leisa met and married in 1984 and ministered for years as Youth Pastors and Youth Evangelists traveling around the country leading conferences, camps, and outreaches. As worship leaders, they were able to pour into lives around the world with songs of intimacy and freedom that reflected their passion for Worship and Evangelism.

After serving as Senior Associates and Worship Leaders at New Life Christian Fellowship in Jacksonville, Florida, Rusty and Leisa moved to Huntsville, Alabama in 1999 to plant a multi-cultural church called The Rock Family Worship Center. Beginning with 13 people in their living room, The Rock Family Worship Center began to reach out into the community with love and compassion. Today, The Rock has grown to five campuses that reach thousands each weekend. The Nelsons’ reach has expanded both locally and globally—with over 100 ministries based within the church for evangelism and outreach. They also serve as overseers of a ministerial alliance (R3) as well as serve on numerous ministry boards across the country.