Responsible for leadership and oversight of all Children’s Ministries, infant through 5th Grade, which includes Sunday morning Faith Factory, AWANA, Tutoring Club, Anchored (3rd-5th Grade), and other events. All of this accomplished alongside parents, whenever possible, as he knows they are the primary spiritual teachers in their children’s lives. |
Ryan Renner, Pastor of Children’s Ministries
Pastor Ryan Renner was born and raised in Burlington, Iowa. He was blessed to grow up in a Christian home and repented and believed in Christ as His Lord and Savior around the age of 9 years old. At age 16, God used a difficult season of mental health to strengthen his convictions and draw him much closer to Jesus. While attending Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL, God set Him on the path to work with kids in full-time ministry and he graduated with a B.A. in Children’s Ministries and in Biblical Studies in 2017. Nothing excites Ryan more than sharing the Gospel with kids and helping develop them into disciples of Jesus Christ.
Ryan has a deep desire to see Children’s Ministry implemented in a way that keeps God’s Word and Jesus Christ at the center and seeks real heart change in a child’s life that goes beyond mere “head knowledge.” He loves to use object lessons, games, drama, crafts, and other fun activities, but realizes these are all just tools used to reach the ultimate goal of shepherding and making disciples. Understanding there is a spiritual battle being waged for the hearts and minds of all believers, Ryan knows this includes children, and believes ministry to them is at the foundation of the Church body.
Ryan has been married to his incredible wife, Eliza for a year now and they love being able to serve together in the Children's Ministries. Ryan's parents and sister live in Iowa, while his brother Ian and his in-laws live in Rockford as well. He loves to sing, act, and play board games. He loves being with people! Ryan lives daily by 2 Cor. 12:7-10 understanding Christ’s “grace is sufficient” and that His “power is made perfect in weakness.”
Phone: 815 874-6806 Ext. 216