Gather and Grow- Synod 2026 Overview

Gather and Grow- Synod 2026 Overview

Pastor Brandon shared an update on Synod 2026. He provided information about what was decided at Synod, along with some of his thoughts and reflections.

Gather and Grow - Family Promise

Listen to Kelsy Vining, Director of Advancement at Family Promise of West Michigan, who shared about their services for families facing housing crises, current community needs, and updates on their recent expansion efforts, including emergency shelter and housing initiatives. It was a meaningful opportunity to learn how we can better support families in our community.

Gather and Grow - Pastor Brandon's Sabbatical Plans

In this episode, Pastor Brandon shares about the sabbatical he will be taking in the spring and summer of 2027, recently approved by the Ivanrest Council. He explains what a sabbatical is, why pastors take them, and how this time away is intended to bring renewal and refreshment for continued ministry at Ivanrest. Pastor Brandon also talks about what he hopes to do during that season—including the CrossFit journey he often mentions. If you’ve ever wondered what a pastoral sabbatical looks like or what Pastor Brandon has planned, this conversation offers a closer look.

Gather and Grow - Immigration through a Biblical Worldview

Jake Tornga, April Palmbos’ coworker, shared with us about his work with The International Association forRefugees (IAFR). IAFR is a Christian mission organization dedicated to helping people survive and recover from war and persecution in their home countries. Since their founding in 2009, immigration policies affecting refugees and asylum seekers have changed dramatically—both globally and in the United States. These changes continue to unfold in real time, directly impacting the lives of they people they serve every day. Take a listen to learn more.

Gather and Grow - How to Read the Bible - Part 2

Ever wondered how to read the Bible—or even what it really is? Listen to the third session of our special three-part Gather & Grow series with Pastor Brandon on our podcast. As we prepare for a year of reading and engaging with Scripture together as a church, this episode explores what the Bible is, how to understand its big story, and how to read it well.