Staff and Leadership

Max and Marlys’ story began at Wheaton College, where Max earned both his Bachelor’s degree in Biology and his Master’s degree in Old Testament. From there, they launched into ministry together, serving several Evangelical Free Churches in the Midwest.

In 1999, Max stepped into a new role as Executive Director and Principal of Village Schools of the Bible in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. During his time there, he guided more than 2,000 adults through a cover to cover, college-credited, systematic study of the Bible in just 36 weeks — in addition to developing a variety of additional Bible courses to help students grow deeper in their faith.

Next came 12 meaningful years as Lead Pastor at Buffalo Covenant Church in Buffalo, Minnesota. After “retiring” in 2022 (retirement in name only!), Max and Marlys moved to Ankeny, Iowa, where Max continued serving by stepping in as an interim pastor for Evangelical Free Churches throughout Iowa as they searched for full-time leadership.

Family is a joy in Max and Marlys’ life. They are parents of three grown children who live in Ankeny and the Dallas, Texas area. Their family has grown to include seven grandchildren (five of whom are married!) and three very special great-grandchildren.

When it’s time to relax, you’ll usually find Max enjoying a few favorite pastimes:

Traveling – Always a joy! Max has visited five continents for both ministry and family adventures. His favorite destination? Israel — where he has led 14 tours.

 Reading – His ultimate way to unwind, finishing over 40 books a year. Favorite topics include history, Abraham Lincoln, and the Civil War.

Gardening – Loves Daylilies and has enjoyed at least 40 different varieties in his many gardens.

 Cheering on his teams – A loyal Cyclones fan (especially when they win!) and a Cubs fan since childhood.

Paul Iekel joined the Gracepoint staff in the summer of 2023, but he is no stranger to the church or the community.  Paul and his wife, Sheryl, have attended GracePoint since 2004; During that time he has been a teacher, coach, and handyman, and active in the life of the church in youth, worship, teaching, and evangelism.  Prior to attending GracePoint, Paul connected with church youth through Tentmaker’s Youth Ministry in part time and volunteer positions, and then was the youth director at Elim Mission (EFCA) in Cokato, MN. Paul believes that God wants to use us in whatever we are doing to be making a difference for Him.  God calls the people of His church to show His love to the world and community around us.  Paul’s passion is encouraging youth and adults to discover how God has uniquely equipped each of us to serve Him fully.

Paul and Sheryl have four adult children and two daughter-in-laws living as near as Nebraska and as far as Central Asia. They have three grandchildren (and more foster grandchildren) they enjoy watching grow up.

Favorite Streaming Series - “The Chosen”  - (I LOVE IT!)

Favorite Bible Verse - Acts 8:30-31

Favorite Foods - Ice Cream and BBQ

Activities - Camping, Trumpet, Track, XC Skiing, Biking, Animal Balloons. 

Cheering for - NY Giants, MN Twins, Iowa State, Nebraska, Syracuse