Pastor Ryan Macdonald didn’t start on a stage. He started on a lawn—specifically, the side lawn of his childhood home in Bergen, New York. As a young boy, he helped set up folding chairs for outdoor church services. It was simple work. But for Ryan, it was the beginning of something bigger.
“Even then, I felt like I was doing something that mattered. I wasn’t preaching—I was helping people find a place to sit and hear the word of God. That felt important to me.”
Today, Ryan Macdonald is the Lead Pastor of The City Church and St. Anthony’s, a multi-campus church located in Batavia, New York. But his journey from lawn helper to church leader wasn’t overnight. It was a steady walk, not a sprint. Along the way, he stayed grounded in the same mission he started with—serving others.
Where Is Pastor Ryan Macdonald From?
Ryan was born on November 4, 1983, in Bergen, a small town in upstate New York. He graduated from Fire Inversion High School and stayed rooted in the local area. “I’ve always believed you can make the biggest difference right where you are,” he says.
That belief shaped his entire career. Instead of moving away to chase a platform, Ryan poured his energy into his local community. Over the last 25 years, The City Church has grown under his leadership—one relationship, one conversation at a time.
How Did Ryan Macdonald Become a Pastor?
Ryan’s ministry journey started with small acts of service. Setting up chairs. Helping clean. Learning from the leaders around him. He didn’t always see himself leading a church.
“At first, I just wanted to be useful. I didn’t imagine I’d be the one preaching. But the more I studied, the more I prayed, the more I felt this calling.”
He took on different roles in the church over time. Eventually, he stepped into leadership. It wasn’t about ambition. It was about responsibility.
“The role didn’t come with a title right away. It came with a burden to care for people. And when you feel that burden, you lean into it.”
What Does Pastor Ryan Do at The City Church?
As Lead Pastor, Ryan guides all aspects of The City Church’s ministry. He leads Sunday and Thursday services, teaches Bible principles, and supports the church’s community outreach. The church has two campuses and offers programs for children, youth, and adults.
One of his favorite parts of the job is teaching.
“I love helping people connect with scripture in a way that feels real. Not just words from a book, but something that speaks to where they are.”
He works closely with his wife, Samantha, who leads the BIG Kids ministry. Together, they’ve created a space where families feel supported and kids are taught with care. Their two sons also volunteer regularly, making it a family effort.
The City Church is known for its welcoming atmosphere, children’s programs, and weekly worship services. Programs like JAM (Jesus And Me) and BIG Kids use the Orange Curriculum to help kids learn about God’s love in a fun, age-appropriate way.
But Ryan doesn’t measure the church’s success by attendance.
“What matters is whether people are growing. Are they kinder? Are they more generous? Are they becoming more like Christ?”
That mindset keeps the church focused on its purpose: helping people live out their faith every day.
What Does Pastor Ryan Believe?
Ryan describes himself first and foremost as “a disciplined follower and student of Jesus Christ.” His goal is to become more like Christ in every area of his life.
“That’s the journey—being conformed into the image and likeness of Jesus. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being faithful.”
He avoids buzzwords and keeps things simple. His sermons are practical. His language is clear. And his approach to leadership is consistent: serve first, speak second.
People who know Ryan often describe him as authentic, humble, and steady. He’s not flashy. He doesn’t seek attention. Instead, he focuses on building real relationships and staying available.
He also credits his team.
“No one leads alone. The people I serve with—they’re the reason we can do what we do. They’re gifted. They’re committed. And they care deeply.”
That team includes pastors, directors, and volunteers who handle everything from teaching to music to technical support. It’s a collaborative effort, guided by a shared mission.
What’s Next for Pastor Ryan and The City Church?
While Ryan doesn’t make predictions, he’s clear about the church’s direction.
“We’ll keep serving this city. We’ll keep teaching the word. And we’ll keep making room for people—wherever they are on their journey.”
It’s a simple plan. But one that’s already shaped thousands of lives across Western New York.
If you’re looking for a church that values faith, family, and community—or a pastor who leads by example—you’ll find both in Batavia. Just look for the guy who used to set up the chairs.
“The heart of what I do hasn’t changed. I just have a microphone now.”
Interview with Pastor Ryan Macdonald
You’ve said your ministry started by setting up chairs. What did that experience teach you?
It taught me that every role matters. I wasn’t preaching or leading—I was just making sure people had a place to sit. But even that felt like service. It showed me that ministry begins with being available and willing to help.
Did you always want to become a pastor?
No, not at all. I wanted to be helpful, but I didn’t picture myself leading. Over time, I just kept saying “yes” to the next thing God put in front of me. Eventually, that path led to becoming a pastor. It wasn’t planned—it was a process.
What’s one of the most meaningful parts of being a pastor?
Seeing growth in people. Not numbers, not attendance—real change. When someone becomes more patient, more generous, or more grounded in their faith, that’s the win. It’s quiet, but it’s powerful.
You and your wife Samantha both serve at the church. How does that impact your family?
We serve as a family. Samantha leads our BIG Kids ministry, and our two sons are involved too. Church isn’t something we attend—it’s part of our life together. It keeps us connected in a shared purpose.
How do you prepare to teach each week?
I read. I pray. I ask God what people need to hear, not just what I want to say. I try to bring clarity, not complexity. My goal is to make the Bible understandable and applicable.
What advice would you give to someone unsure about faith or church?
Start where you are. Don’t worry about having it all figured out. Show up, ask questions, listen. God meets people in honest moments, not perfect ones.
