JJ MANNSCHRECK I lead pastor

JJ Mannschreck graduated from Calvin College where he met his wife Sara. Sara and JJ bring with them four boys (Liam, Amos, Ezra and Asher), and have recently welcomed their first daughter Magnolia. In addition to his family life - his passions in ministry include worship music, and finding simple answers to tricky questions about faith. He runs a blog over at thesimpleton.org, as well as his YouTube channel, podcast and various other social media outreaches.

email: jj@centergr.com

JACK ALKEMA | pastoral resident

Raised in Allendale, MI, Jack graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Christian Ministry and is currently working on a Masters in Practical Theology through the KERN program. He has a heart for seeing the grace and truth of Christ transform people’s lives. Jack likes to play any and all types of games with friends, read action-packed stories, and watch the best TV shows and movies.

email: jack@centergr.com

LAUREN MACDONALD | center kids intern

Lauren is originally from Spokane, Washington but started attending Center a few years ago while attending Grace Christian University and Cornerstone University seeking a BA in Elementary Education (graduating in 2024). Lauren has a heart for training up young hearts for the Lord. She likes to read, bake and dig into theology.

email: lauren@centergr.com