Who We Are

Borderlands is a community of people gathered together to seek truth. As people, some of us are more peculiar than others, especially at church — but that is what we welcome. Borderlands is a chill place to explore spiritual truths, ask difficult questions, and learn about Jesus Christ. You are welcome to come as you are; with your own style of dress, walk, hair, and even spiritual beliefs.

We don't play church; but we do teach Jesus and the Truth of Scripture, in a community of relationship and trust. So grab some coffee and journey together with us.

Borderlands is a community that is part of the larger community of First Free Church Learn more about the church's beliefs.

Jake Bailey Aldrich

Pastor

jakea [at] firstfreerockford dot org Jake Bailey Aldrich

Jake, though originally from the oilfields and farms of Oklahoma, joins us from the hills of Kentucky, he is adamantly opposed to coffee (unlike Josh) and chain stores/ restaurants. He is educated (a BA and Masters in Leadership Development/Church Growth), though he doesn't dress like it. Jake brings diversity to the leadership team … no one else drives a Honda Element, but his passions reside in any outdoor adventure, hanging out with friends, and teaching about the authentic power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Favorite Movie

Top Gun, Fight Club, Casablanca, Good Will Hunting

Favorite Drink

Milk in a frozen mug

Favorite Music

George Strait, Marty Urwin, and Sojourn Band

Favorite Food

Greek

Pet Peeves

Anything with pickles, hair clogging the shower drain

Josh Martin Reese

Worship Arts Director

joshr [at] firstfreerockford dot org

Josh is the Worship Arts Director for borderlands. He grew up here in Rockford, graduated from Guilford High School, and then moved away for 10 years. After living in Colorado and Alaska and working as a civil engineer, he came back to Rockford and started seminary. He is working on a Masters of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is married to Wendy and has four daughters. Josh loves to read the Bible, play guitar, hunt pheasant, and hang out at coffee shops.