Nicole Unice
Pastor for Church Planting
“We live in an increasingly lonely and disconnected world, which means the freedom and grace of Jesus and the power and love of community is needed more than ever. Dave and I both believe in the transformative power of new expressions of faith to reach people far from God and ignite new opportunities for mission right here in our city. We are so excited about this new season together with Third!” — Nicole
Nicole began her role on October 5, 2026, and will join our staff for two years while she learns the culture of Third and prepares to plant the new congregation. Over the next two years, she will occasionally preach, teach Sunday classes, and work alongside our ministry team and lay leaders.
In the third year, Nicole will be sent by Third along with a core community to launch a new church plant. This church plant directly advances our 2025 Strategic Plan, which you can explore in more depth here.
Briefly describe your primary responsibilities/duties at Third (aim for 30 words or less!)
I’m discerning with the Third congregation a new church plant in the metro Richmond area, and then developing and leading this new expression of faith in Richmond.
What is your favorite book(s)?
Whatever I’m currently reading! But some of my favorites:
The Great Divorce by CS Lewis
Living in Christ’s Presence by Dallas Willard
Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Mark of the Lion Series by Francine Rivers
What is your favorite thing about Richmond or to do in Richmond?
Grab some friends and run/walk/bike through the city, discovering new bakeries/breweries/trails along the way.
Share a bit more about you personally, feel free to mention your family or what you like to do for fun.
My husband Dave and I have three almost-adult kids that we’ve loved raising in Richmond. I’m an army brat and appreciate how the nomadic lifestyle and diversity of my childhood experiences has shaped how I see the importance of community and place as an adult. Dave and I particularly love to fill our home with people and have just added a new puppy to the mix.
Tell us about “Why Third?” How do you see God moving at Third? Or, why are you excited to be a part of the Third Church?
Third Church has an incredible legacy here in Richmond of fostering new expressions of faith throughout the city. It’s a great joy to listen, learn, and grow with this community and then participate with what God is already doing in Richmond with a new church!