Want to get to know us better?  Click around … you’ll see what we’re all about.

Our mission plays out in many scenarios.  It’s as basic as feeding the homeless and as organized as running an art camp for kids.  It includes neighborhood barbecues and teacher appreciation nights for Alger Middle School.  The experience varies, but the motivation is constant:  we want to see our city transformed by the love of Jesus.

To learn about how we’re serving our neighborhood and city, click here.

Sundays — 11AM

The Branch is committed to knowing God better and loving others more.  We believe, wholeheartedly, that gathering together can be transformational.  Group worship offers an unique opportunity to live into the body of Christ.  Sunday morning isn’t everything, but it is a cherished experience at the Branch.

We worship with rhythm and flexibility.  We approach God with expectancy and questions.  Our community is authentic and interested.

We look for God through teaching, music, art, film, design and food.  We seek God in weekly communion, and we respond to God with our hands, our mouths, and our feet.  Our people love creativity.

Worshippers at the Branch are invited to participate.  However, there is always space to sit and watch.  Our style is relaxed and intentional.  Come in jeans or your favorite dress.  But, definitely drink coffee.

Interested in when and where?  Go ahead and click right here.

Our staff is made up of individuals who serve as point people for the rest of us.  They will lead, design, and dream – but not by themselves.    And, definitely not without coffee.  Meet them.

Andy Dragt
There is just no simple way to sum this guy up.  You name it, Andy’s done it.  Or, at least he’s googled it.

Andy is usually sitting in front of his Mac or squinting behind his camera.  He is often barefoot.  He knows the Grand Rapids bus lines as well as anyone.  Looking for a good, local restaurant in GR?  Ask Andy.

As a Branch co-pastor, Andy leads in areas of mission and culture.  He helps us ask “what should we be doing?” and “how do we engage those around us?”  On Sunday mornings, Andy might be preaching, running a video, or holding a baby.  He prefers not to sing into a microphone.  But, yes, he does love a good cup of coffee.

Andy has been married to his wife, Gina, for 12 years.  They have 2 daughters, Haeli and Maya.  When not serving the Branch, Andy is running his video and web design business.

Chris DeBlaay
Chris’ life is defined by the days of the week.  On Mondays, he is a stay-at-home-dad.  On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, he is a branch co-pastor.  On Thursdays, it’s back to stay-at-home-dad with a little Warehouse Guy thrown in.  Fridays are a hodgepodge: a little Branch, a little Wellness Coordinator, a little Warehouse Guy. With such a complex schedule, you might imagine Chris has the ability to create excellent Excel spreadsheets.  You wouldn’t be wrong.

As a Branch co-pastor, Chris leads in areas of community and transformation.  He helps us ask “with whom are you connected?” and “is Jesus more obvious in your life today than he was yesterday?”   On Sunday mornings, Chris might be preaching, playing his guitar, or teaching a kids’ class.

Chris has been married to his wife, Bethany, for 10 years. They have 4 children: Raya, Zeke, JP, and Ruby.  When not serving the Branch, Chris is … oh yeah, you already read that stuff.  What you don’t know?  He manages it all with a double-pump, white mocha in his hand.

Partners
If you find community at the Branch, we invite you to become a Partner.  Partners make a year long commitment to intentionally live out the Branch values together.  It’s that simple.  No dues to pay or vows to take.  No special outfits to wear or fancy perks to receive.  Partners simply decide to lock arms and love others in the way of Jesus.

Stewards
We identify a few individuals at the Branch as Stewards.  These leaders offer their time, discernment and skills to the Branch to care for its people and its resources.  The Stewards are always up for conversation about the Branch.  Contact any one of them if you have questions or a need.

People at the Branch love to be together.  Some like to join groups who follow a planned schedule and have a defined purpose.  Others gravitate to spontaneous gatherings which form out of shared hunger (“who wants to get pizza after church?”) or hobbies (“anybody want to go for a run?”).  Click on the links below to find out where you fit.

Meal Night

Small Groups

Serve

Coming in January….

Seeds: Birth – 24mos

Sprouts: 2year – 3year

Buds: 4 – 1st Grade

Twigs: 2nd – 5th Grade

Got questions before you come?  Wondering how you can help make an impact? E-mail charlie@thebranchonline.org

973 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids

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