As we step into this exciting next chapter at Magnify, we invite you to join us for upcoming Connect Times with Steve Welch, our proposed new Senior Pastor, and Stu Quackenbush our new Lead Teaching Pastor. These gatherings are a chance to hear their hearts, learn more about their vision for Magnify, and ask questions as we seek God together for what’s ahead. We’d love for you to be part of the conversation as we move forward as one church family and look ahead to our Special Business Meeting on April 26.

Magnify Family Connect Times

April 12 – Northview
10:15am, Q&A in the Auditorium 

April 19 – Ensley
10:15am, Steve Welch Connect in the Worship Center

April 19 – Rockford
4:45-5:30pm, Q&A in the Auditorium

April 20 – Rockford
7pm, Men’s Ministry Connect

April 21 – Rockford
9:45am, Women’s Ministry Connect

April 22 – Rockford
6am, Men’s Ministry Connect 

April 26 – Rockford
6-6:45pm, Q&A in the Auditorium
7:15pm, Vote in the Auditorium

See more information about the Special Business Meeting on April 26 at the link below.

Link to Our Magnify Family Updates page

Get to Know Stu and Steve

Stu Quackenbush

Stu Quackenbush has deep roots in the Rockford community, where he was born and raised and continues to serve today. He and his wife, Ashley, have been married for 18 years and are raising four children: Carter, Kenzie, Emmy, and Maddie. 

Stu earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in 2008, studying History, English, and secondary education, and later completed his Master’s degree at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary.

Stu began serving in ministry in 2008 and has spent many years investing in the next generation, including time in college ministry and a decade leading high school students. In January 2024, he stepped into the role of Teaching Pastor, and in May 2024, he was appointed co-interim Lead Pastor alongside Steve Welch. Stu is deeply passionate about studying and teaching God’s Word and seeing lives transformed by the gospel. He has a strong love for the local church and values doing life together in authentic community with fellow believers. 

Outside of ministry, Stu absolutely loves spending time with his wife and kids, reading, coaching soccer, and occasionally trying to catch sharks.

Steve Welch

Steve Welch also grew up in Rockford and has dedicated his life to serving the local church. He and his wife, JoLynn, have been married for 35 years and have two daughters, Mackenzie and Shannon, as well as a son-in-law, David, and three grandsons: Judah, Jordan, and Hudson, who bring great joy to their family.

Steve graduated from Cornerstone University with a degree in Religion and minors in Philosophy and Greek, and later earned his Master of Divinity from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He began his ministry as a Youth Pastor at Algoma Baptist Church before joining Magnify Church (formerly Blythefield) in 1995. Over more than two decades, he has faithfully served in student and young adult ministries, including launching the “1829” ministry for college students, young professionals, and young families.

Since May 2024, Steve has been serving as co-interim Lead Pastor alongside Stu Quackenbush. He is passionate about helping people know and love Jesus Christ, grow in their faith, and actively use their God-given gifts within the church. He also has a strong heart for the next generation, desiring to see them encounter God through His Word and His creation.

In his free time, Steve enjoys being with his family, especially his grandsons, as well as outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. He also enjoys hands-on projects that bring people together and create meaningful connections.