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Meet Our Team

Our Pastoral Team


Pastor John Grohs- pjohn@immanuelrapids.com

Senior Administrative Pastor

It is indeed good to be here at Immanuel as I am Inspired by the generosity of our God who heaps grace upon grace on each of us. I came to Immanuel in March of 2007 and I have found this group of Christians warm, friendly, caring and a great family to be part of. Barb and I have been married almost 29 years. We have two grown children: Our son Kevin who is married to Carrisa--and we have three granddaughters--Cadyn, Oaklynn and Arbor; and our daughter Paula. Both families live in the Twin Cities area. Yes, I am a Vikings fan and a Twins fan--golf occassionally and I love the Lord Jesus! Please join us as I looking forward to working with you--Sharing; Growing and Serving in God's Kingdom here in our Community. I graduated from Concordia University at Seward NE in 1981 and from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis in 2001. I served Zion Lutheran, Albert Lea as a DCE for 4 years (Intern Yr and 3 DCE) and 7 years (1 Vicarage, 6 Pastor) at Christ Lutheran, Shakopee, MN.


I am pleased and honored to be called to serve at Immanuel! Growing up as a pastor's kid, taught me so much about caring for individuals and I felt early on in my life God leading me to do the same. It took me longer than most to get here, but finally in 2011 I realized my calling in life as I was ordained and installed as the Associate Pastor of Immanuel Lutheran. Along with my wife Robyn and our two boys Micah and Elijah we love the city we live in and the church family who has welcomed us in as one of their own. We feel blessed to be a part of the growing ministry taking place here Immanuel.

Hometown: Hard to pinpoint, but will go with Bellevue, NE.

Degrees: Bachelors of Science in Electronic Journalism with minor in Pschology from Northern Michigan University; Masters of Divinity, Concordia Seminary St. Louis, MO

Favorite Sports Teams: Nebraska Cornhuskers, Milwaukee Brewers and of course the Green Bay Packers.


Tara Barrett-tbarrett@immanuelrapids.com

Director of Christian Education

Tara graduated from Concordia University, St. Paul in 2008 and earned her DCE certification in 2010 through their colloquy program. She is originally from Wisconsin Rapids and is very happy to be back 'home' serving this community. She considers herself very blessed to be called to serve at Immanuel Lutheran Church and school. Tara has been married to Nick since August of 2009, and through her marriage is blessed with a wonderful son, PJ (who is already old enough to begin confirmation instruction! Crazy!).


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