Pastor Ryan Macdonald has dedicated his life to faith, service, and leadership. As the Lead Pastor of The City Church & St. Anthony’s in Batavia, NY, he serves his congregation with humility and passion. His journey began in a small town, setting up chairs for church services on his family’s lawn. Today, he leads a multi-campus church with a focus on outreach, discipleship, and building strong families.
A Calling from the Beginning
Ryan Macdonald grew up in Bergen, NY. His faith was evident from an early age. He remembers his first act of ministry: setting up chairs for outdoor services. “I was just a kid, but I loved being part of something bigger than myself,” he says.
That simple act of service grew into a lifelong mission. Ryan attended Fire Inversion High School, where he deepened his faith and learned the value of discipline. His experiences in school and church shaped the leader he would become.
Leading with Vision
For over 20 years, Pastor Ryan has been dedicated to ministry. He now leads The City Church & St. Anthony’s, a church known for its commitment to community service. His leadership style is rooted in humility and a desire to serve.
“My greatest goal is to follow Christ fully and help others do the same,” Ryan explains. “Being a pastor isn’t about a title—it’s about being available to the people.”
His congregation sees him not just as a leader but as a mentor and friend. He believes in hands-on ministry, often working alongside volunteers during church events and community outreach programs.
A Passion for Outreach
Community service is at the heart of The City Church. Ryan and his family volunteer at the church weekly. He believes that faith should be active. “Church isn’t just about Sundays,” he says. “It’s about how we live the rest of the week.”
Under his leadership, the church has expanded its outreach efforts. They provide support for families in need, host events for young people, and work with local organizations to make a lasting impact.
He is especially passionate about reaching the next generation. “Young people need guidance, encouragement, and a place where they feel seen and heard,” he says. “We want to be that place.”
Balancing Faith and Family
Ryan met his wife, Samantha, at The City Church. They have been married for 21 years and have two sons who also serve in the church. Faith is the foundation of their home.
“Our family is my first ministry,” Ryan says. “If I can’t be a good husband and father, how can I lead others?”
Balancing family life and church leadership isn’t always easy. But Ryan believes in prioritizing what matters most. “No matter how busy life gets, we make time for each other,” he says.
His sons have grown up watching their parents serve others. “We don’t just talk about faith — we live it,” Ryan says. “That’s what I hope my kids take with them.”
A Love for Real Estate and Learning
Outside of ministry, Ryan has a strong interest in real estate. He sees it as a way to help build stability for families. “A home isn’t just a place — it’s a foundation,” he explains.
He also believes in lifelong learning. “Faith grows when we keep learning and seeking,” he says. He continues to study and explore ways to deepen his understanding of the Bible and leadership.
Looking Ahead
Ryan’s vision for the future is simple: keep serving, keep growing, and keep reaching people. “God’s work never stops,” he says. “There is always more to do.”
He wants The City Church & St. Anthony’s to be a place where people find hope. “If one person feels encouraged, if one life is changed, then it’s all worth it,” he says.
For Pastor Ryan Macdonald, faith is not just a belief — it’s a way of life. And through his leadership, he hopes to inspire others to live with purpose, passion, and love.
