STAFF LEADERSHIP TEAM

Pastor Mark began as the Pastor of Congregational Life here at FRC in 2011 and previously served as the Belonging Pastor at the Maurice 1st Reformed Church in Maurice, IA. Mark’s role is the primary caregiver to the congregation, leading a team of caregivers who pay attention to the needs of the church family.

Mark and Suzanne have been married for 26 years and have two children, Allie and Eli, who are students at Northwestern College. In their spare time, they love to host college students for Sunday dinners and follow local sports teams at both the high school and college levels.  With both kids in college, Mark and Suz have expanded their garden. They love growing and sharing their produce and trying new recipes.  On Saturdays, during football season, you’ll find Mark on the sidelines of Northwestern games as part of the “chain gang.”

The Church provides a wonderful opportunity for people to engage with one another. Celebrating the joys of life, being encouraged in times of struggle, and sharing God’s love is Pastor Mark’s passion for FRC.  “When we worship together,” Pastor Mark says, “we come together as the body of Christ, not having it all together, but through Jesus being restored into whom God is creating us to be.”
 
One big question for Pastor Mark: If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?
Answer: If my cat, Sunny, could talk she would say, “It’s my world and you all are just living in it!”
 
Pastor Mark’s Life Verse is Exodus 4:10: Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.” – Moses is wrestling with God’s call for him to be the one to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and lists off to God why he shouldn’t be the one due to some personal struggles. I too wrestled with God about answering a call to vocational ministry and like Moses, I eventually responded when God told Moses and me, “now go and I will help you.”

Pastor Greg is our Transitional Pastor during our time without a lead pastor. Pastor Greg has been married to his wife, Veronica, for 27 years, and they have 4 grown children. They live in Denton, Texas, not far from their 4 grandchildren. This is Pastor Greg's second assignment as a Transitional Pastor. He was also the Lead Pastor at First Reformed Church (now Counterpoint) in Sioux Center (from 1998 - 2006) and the Senior Pastor at Christ Community Church in Carmichael, California (from 2006 - 2022).

As the Transitional Pastor, Pastor Greg is in Orange City about 9 days out of the month, preaches at least 2 Sundays a month, checks in with the staff, and consults with the Consistory. His purpose is to keep First Reformed Church moving forward and set our organization up for success when a new lead pastor is called.

Ross Enger is the Director of Youth Ministries and leads 6th-12th grade ministries with a talented team of adult volunteers. After taking on a call to long-term church ministry, Ross earned his Bachelors in Youth Ministry and Bible from the University of Northwestern - St. Paul before beginning on staff in July 2009. The words of Jesus in John 10:10 frame the purpose of our youth ministry under Ross' leadership, reminding us that a life of following Jesus is not always easy, but is always abundant. You can find Ross on Facebook, Instagram @ross.enger, or in the wilderness somewhere hunting or fishing.

Sarah (Known around here as "Mrs. K") grew up in Orange City. She attended Orange City Christian, Unity Christian High School, and Dordt University, where she developed a passion for Children's Ministry.

Dave and Sarah have 4 children, Aubrey, Livie, Caleb, and Josie.  As a family, they love to travel and do outdoor activities like walking, running, riding bikes, and shooting hoops in their driveway. They also have family night every weekend and love to cheer on the Green Bay Packers.
 
One big question for Sarah: What is your favorite random fact?
Sarah says: There was a Serbian tennis player in the '80s.  My dad worked for KVDB Radio (now KSOU) at the time and after weeks of trying, one of my dad's co-workers could not pronounce this athlete's name.  So, my dad taught me how to say the name and recorded me saying it on a cassette tape.  When my dad's coworker needed to say the athlete's name for a radio broadcast, he would play the tape and my voice would say the athlete's name on air.  

 
Sarah’s Life Verse is Isaiah 30:21: Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”  

Amanda Haverdink loves Jesus, her family, people, laughing so hard that she cries, and music.  Given those things, her job at FRC couldn't be better suited to her. Amanda's heart is to see people worshipping God through music, and she has been actively involved in church music leadership consistently since she was 18.

Amanda administrates the volunteers leading worship on Sunday morning and those behind the scenes. She often says she has the best volunteers. They challenge her to become a better leader and musician, and it is a rare rehearsal that doesn't have some joke cracked or laughter doesn't happen.

Amanda is happily married to the most handsome man around, Aaron, and is mom to little people, Bethany, Sam, and Josiah.  When she is not at FRC, she keeps busy with her alterations business, having coffee with friends, gardening/landscaping, or dabbling in a variety of art mediums.
 
One big question for Amanda: What is your favorite random fact?
Amanda says: When I was in college, I went to study with NT Wright at the University of St. Andrews.  When I got there, I realized two things-- 1. NT Wright was on sabbatical that semester, and 2. This was also the university where Prince William and (his now wife) Kate Middleton were also studying.  I did see Prince William at the library one time, but I didn't realize who he was till later... after I did the awkward "how do I know you" stare for a while and then walked off.  
 
Amanda’s Life Verse is Zephaniah 3:17: The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. – When I was younger I didn't believe that God liked me -- I knew I was loved, because He is God, and He has to love everyone.  But my world was rocked when I encountered Jesus' love for me -- Jesus delights in AMANDA, and that was life-changing.  Now anytime I am overwhelmed, frustrated, or any other host of emotions, God seems to always bring back this verse (or a similar one) that reminds me just how much I am Loved, which quiets my heart and steadies my soul.

Sara is the Missions Director here at First Reformed Church.  Sara's passion is to be a bridge of connection and empowerment for our congregation to "live out" their faith and testimony in the hurting world.  She connects the mission of God with ministries locally, nationally, and our partners globally.

One big question for Sara: What is the dumbest way you injured yourself?  
Sara says: I actually can think of so many!  The first one that came to mind, though, was tripping on the step and snagging my baby toe that then broke and was turned at a 90-degree angle. I had to have them reset it and then wear a boot. To this day, when it rains, it still aches.

Sara's Life Verse is Psalm 27:13: I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. – This verse has been my verse for a season of life.  As we look at how hard the world can seem at times, we have to remember that God's goodness has not left. We see His fingerprint in our lifetimes when we are seeking Him. 

April is passionate about sharing the good news through digital means. Her primary role involves helping our message of the gospel leave the walls of our building. She oversees FRC’s website, social media accounts, app, and TV channels. She is also in charge of Women’s Ministry. April is married to Jonathan, who is a PGA golf instructor, and mom to Allison and Andrew. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and playing video games.

One big question for April: If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?
April says: My dog Snickers would say, "My mom needs to be reminded to take me outside. And when she says, 'In a minute,' I know she really means that I should put my paw on her leg until she gets up and takes me outside."

April’s Life Verse is Zephaniah 3:17: Yahweh your God is among you, a warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will bring you quietness with His love. He will delight in you with shouts of joy. (HCSB) – I am still learning the depths of God's love for me. The visual that this verse shows of God's delight and rejoicing is a reminder I need daily. It takes me out of feeling I need to prove myself and into the knowledge that God loves me just for being His child.

Lyle has been serving on staff since July 2021 and previously worked as a teacher/coach at MOC-FV H.S. Lyle and Mary have been married for 41 years, and Mary is a physical therapist at the OCAHS. They have two married sons who have blessed Lyle and Mary with 6 wonderful Grandchildren. In their spare time, Lyle and Mary love spending time with family, and they can frequently be found fishing, camping, biking, or hiking.

Lyle has the gift of hospitality, and he will be working to help both people who are new and existing members of FRC become more connected with one another within the life and ministry of FRC. Lyle has a great passion for Christ, for the church, and for helping people to come to know the Lord more fully.

One big question for Lyle: If you were a superhero, who would be my archenemies? 
Lyle says: My superpower would be catching mega amounts of fish so… my archenemies would be Ross Enger and Gerry Korver since I am always out-fishing them!!

Lyle's Life Verse is Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – This verse is a constant reminder to me of God’s unconditional love and forgiveness for me.

Tom earned a Bachelor of Music in Church Music from St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN, and a Bachelor of Religious Education from Reformed Bible College (now Kuyper College), Grand Rapids, MI. He also completed the study for a Master of Arts in Christian Education from North American Baptist Seminary (now Sioux Falls Seminary) in Sioux Falls, SD. Tom has been certified by East Sioux Classis of the Reformed Church in America (RCA) as an Associate in Ministry. Since beginning at FRC in 1982, Tom has filled a number of different staff positions and presently leads our Senior Adult events, plans our Adult Sunday School opportunities, assists in developing and leading our Sunday evening gatherings, participates in visitation, guides our prayer ministries, and directs the adult Sanctuary Choir.

Although he is now semi-retired, he considers it a joy and blessing to be a part of FRC staff and her ministry. He is married to Carla and has three adult children and five grandchildren.
 
One big question for Tom:  How would you describe your life in three words?
Tom says: blessed-led-fed. I was blessed to be born into a home where I never had a question my parent’s love and support. I was blessed by family, friends, and extended relatives who invested their love and confidence in me. I was led by various teachers and leaders to take God's claim on my life seriously. All along the way God has provided wonderful believers who have, by His Spirit, shown me Jesus’ love and grace to me.
 
Tom’s Life Verse is 1st John 4:10 – “This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” Being declared right with God is a marvelous work of God’s grace from beginning to end.

Pat joined the FRC staff in the fall of 2023. Pat's mechanical and industrial construction background, as well as his attention to detail and desire for cleanliness, make him a great addition to our facility. Pat's job as facilities director covers a variety of areas, including cleaning and maintenance or repair of our large facility when needed.

Pat is married to Breanne, and they have two teenage children. In his spare time, Pat enjoys working on projects and repairs around the house, as well as working on cars in the garage. He also enjoys attending his children's sporting events, watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, and playing golf.

Pat's Life Verse is Proverbs 16:3: "Proverbs 16:3 -  Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." 

Mary joined the FRC staff as the Administrative Assistant in the summer of 2023. Hospitality and accounting work for the YMCA of the Rockies, F.H. Anderson Co (now Bengard & Associates Inc), and volunteering at NWC’s Welcome Center have prepared her for this position.  She loves greeting people and serving others at FRC.

Mary grew up in Bloomington, Minnesota (a suburb of Minneapolis).  After graduating from Cornell College, Mount Vernon, Iowa, with a degree in business/economics and environmental studies, she moved to Colorado where Todd was doing his graduate work.

Mary and Todd, a professor of Biology and department chair at NWC, moved to Orange City in December 2001.  They have two children, Tommy and Teagan.  Mary spends much time attending her kids’ activities as Tommy runs cross-country and track and Teagan dances and is part of the marching band.  When she does have free time Mary likes to read, quilt, craft, bake, work jigsaw puzzles, and play Sequence and Mexican Train.  As a family, they like to spend time at a lake or in the mountains.

One big question for Mary:  If you could add one month to the calendar year, where would you put an extra 30 days?
Mary says: I would add an extra 30 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  I absolutely love the holiday season and always run out of time to do everything I want to.

Mary’s Life Verse is Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope."

Merilee joined the staff in May of 2010 as a part-time bookkeeper. Currently, she handles all accounting duties as well as many administrative tasks.

After growing up on a farm near Sioux Center and graduating from Sioux Center High School, Merilee attended Iowa State University, graduating with degrees in Business Management and Education. She has worked in various sales and marketing positions and had a home-base business for bridal and formal-wear alterations.

Merilee and Clark, a V.P. at Iowa State Bank, have two children, Meredith (married to Tim) and Tyler (married to Alexandra). Meredith and Tim's daughter Thea puts many smiles on Grandma Merilee's face!
 
One big question for Merilee: If you could add one month to the calendar year, where would you put an extra 30 days?
Merilee says: I would add an extra 30 days of spring between April and May. I love springtime with the green grass, beautiful flowers, and mild weather. And with the busyness of the month of May around here, an additional 30 days to enjoy the spring weather would be awesome.
 
Merilee’s Life Verse is Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.”  – After struggling with infertility for several years, this verse was shared as part of the devotional at the adoption placement of both Meredith and Tyler. Throughout the years, we have seen how God has worked His plan through our family, and He has reminded us often, through our children, of the deep meaning in the promises of this verse.

Ken is FRC’s first-ever “volunteer staff” member. A recently-retired employee of Sioux County, Ken has gone from building bridges of steel and concrete to networking people to and within the congregation. As leader of the church Connections Team, Ken aims to bring new people into the community of faith at FRC and to help veteran members take their participation to new levels. If you are scoping out FRC from a distance, Ken is the perfect person to link you to the ministries and missions of the church. Send him an email!
 
One big question for Ken: If you could have anything delivered to my door every morning, what would it be?
Ken says: It would have to be a caramel mocha latte. I never feel like making one for myself. It would satisfy my sweet tooth and I could use the caffeine to get me going.
 
Ken’s Life Verse is Matthew 22:37-39: Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” 

Anna is a Ukrainian refugee. She came to the US in October 2023. Her husband is Illia and they have two young boys, Zakhar and Sem. She helps Pat with cleaning through out the week and is a great asset to our team.