Pastor’s Corner: Ginny Ahrens

Ginny Ahrens serves as the Pastor of Staff and Congregational Development at First Covenant Church in Grand Rapids, MI. Her role is multifaceted and impactful; she orchestrates staff development and meetings, manages adult Bible study groups, oversees around 20 ministry teams, delivers sermons 6-8 times each year, and is an integral part of the Care Team. Beyond her pastoral duties, Ginny brings a unique blend of personal experience and heartfelt compassion to her ministry. Ginny’s life is a tapestry woven (she loves to cross-stitch!) with threads of faith, resilience, and a mother’s love.

Growing up in Williams Bay, WI as the only girl among seven brothers, Ginny learned early on how to advocate for herself. Despite being raised in a faith-filled home where her spirit was nurtured, she faced challenges due to gender biases prevalent in her church community. Undeterred by these obstacles, she pursued a degree in Biblical Studies and stepped into her calling alongside her husband Dave as they began their shared ministry journey. Dave’s first call was to a Covenant church in Bemidji, MN. This is where their Covenant journey began.

Their family story has not been without challenges; their firstborn daughter Rachel was diagnosed with Kabuki syndrome and Autism when Ginny was just 27 years old. The road ahead was undoubtedly rough at times but filled with blessings that enriched their lives. Seven years later, Hannah joined the family—a vibrant, joyful addition who took on many responsibilities amid life’s complexities.

While being a full-time mother, Ginny first pursued her Ministry License, then attended seminary at North Park Theological Seminary and became ordained with the Covenant Church. In 2020, during a world-wide pandemic, they moved to Grand Rapids, MI to work at First Covenant and have been there ever since. Her preaching schedule allows for unique opportunities to share insights from both scripture and personal experiences.

Through it all, Ginny has remained rooted in love—love for God, love for her family (which now includes a son-in-law – Adam – married to Hannah), and love for those she serves within the church community. Rachel’s transformative journey through a special education college has empowered her to live independently using her culinary art skills for employment while forging meaningful relationships; similarly, Hannah thrives professionally at Calvin University with loving support from her husband Adam. They are also involved in worship ministry at Thornapple Covenant Church, where Hannah serves as music coordinator.

As we learn from Ginny’s story—a narrative marked by perseverance and grace—we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on many lives through faithfulness and service. Her path illustrates that our struggles often lead us closer to God and closer together as a community under God’s guidance; it is this spirit that enriches First Covenant Church today under Ginny’s compassionate leadership.