From left, Charles, Ryan, Mikayla, Matt and Jake in Orlando.

MEET The Ciche Family

Ryan Ciche began attending Vineyard about 10 years ago with his four children: twins Matt and Jake (15), Mikayla (13) and Charles (11). The children’s program and sermons drew them in, and Ryan says he and his family continue to appreciate the bible teachings and messages.

Throughout the year, the family is busy with activities. Matt participates in swimming and tennis. Jake is active in Boy Scouts and track, spending much of his free time in the weight room. Mikayla takes part in cross country, soccer, cheerleading, volleyball and track. Charles participates in soccer and downhill skiing. The family also has two beloved golden retrievers, Summer (3) and Sunny (2), who are half-sisters.

Each summer, the Ciches like to take a family trip. In 2022, they drove down to Virgina Beach, near Norfolk, where Ryan was stationed for about five years when he was in the Navy. They all brought their roller skates and rode down the boardwalk, just as Ryan used to do when he lived there. In 2023, they did a week in Wisconsin Dells. This year, they flew to Orlando to spend time at Universal Studios and Daytona Beach. While they were at the water park one day, a heavy rain drove most of the other families away, but the Ciches stayed. They hung out in the lazy river and enjoyed having the park mostly to themselves.

Later this summer, Ryan, Matt and Jake competed in their first triathlon relay in Waupaca. Matt kicked off the race with a half-mile swim; Ryan biked 20 miles; and Jake wrapped it up with a 5K run. All of their training paid off, and the team finished better than they expected!

In the midst of their busy schedules, Ryan said being there for one other and having quality family time centered in Christ is key. Ryan was raised in a Christian home and aims to continue that tradition with his own children by not only attending services but also discussing Jesus and faith with them at home. This summer, Matt and Jake got baptized at Vineyard’s Church in the park service. Ryan said he felt very proud and knew that Matt and Jake were happy to take that step in their faith.

- written by Krista Maxwell

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Reach out to Cherie or send an email to cherie@vineyardchurch.co