Staff
Meet the Team
We’re a group of regular people passionate about God, community, and a good potluck. Whether we’re planning Sunday services, leading small groups, or just keeping the coffee flowing, we’re here to serve and support you in your faith journey. Take a moment to get to know us--we look forward to seeing you around.
Steve Zwart
Lead Pastor
Steve Zwart is our Lead Pastor. With an unwavering commitment to the Gospel and the Holy Spirit's leading, Pastor Steve delivers Biblical and Spirit-led messages each week. Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Steve walks alongside us through life's joys and challenges. He provides guidance, support, and prayer, helping us navigate the complexities of life with grace and hope and always pointing us back to Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith.
Al Van Donkersgoed
Administrator and Facilities Director
Al oversees the care and maintenance of the church campus, handles various contracts, coordinates funerals, weddings, and staff schedules, assists the treasurer with financial tasks, and oversees the transportation ministry. Thanks to Al's passion, our church campus runs smoothly and in good order. He is also responsible for facilitating our middle school youth group, which meets alternating Sundays from 6:15-7:45 pm.
Gabby Eckardt-Friez
Director of Worship Ministry
Gabby Eckhardt Friez is our Director of Worship Ministry. Gabby has a deep passion for music and a heart for worship. She empowers musicians and vocalists to use their talents to glorify God and sincerely lead others into His presence. In addition to her musical talents, Gabby works hard to curate worship services into an immersive and meaningful experience. She is also invested in raising up our younger members to engage in worship in a meaningful way as she cultivates worship opportunities for our GEMS and Cadets.
Denae Matherly
Director of Hospitality
Denae’s mission is simple: to make sure everyone who steps through our doors feels like they’ve come home. From signage and decor to running our beloved First Perks coffee shop, she’s the initiator behind creating welcoming spaces. She coordinates all our major events—from Pie Day and Graduation Sunday to congregation-wide Valentine’s dinners and Open Gym nights. If there’s a chance for a party, Denae’s already planning it!
Paul Mobley
Director of Technical Ministries
Paul is the unsung hero who keeps our church running smoothly in the digital age. From computers and projectors to audiovisual equipment, Paul's got it covered if it has a plug or a password. He’s the mastermind behind our sound system and live streams, ensuring everything looks and sounds flawless each week. Behind the scenes, Paul is the guardian of our digital infrastructure, keeping servers humming and tech glitches at bay. Thanks to Paul, our church stays connected, both inside our walls and beyond!
Jill Smith
Director of Children's Ministry
Jill is the heart and soul of our Children’s Ministry, making sure that every child in our church feels welcomed, loved, and excited to grow in their faith. She oversees everything from Sunday School and Children’s Church to the Nursery, and she’s the driving force behind all kid-focused events—whether it’s a fun-filled day or a meaningful outreach initiative. Jill also coordinates our Cadets, GEMS, and MOPS programs, providing a space for kids and moms of all ages to learn, connect, and flourish together in their faith journey.
Rachel Attema
Administrative Assistant
Rachel is the organizational wizard who ensures everything runs like clockwork behind the scenes. From crafting and printing all of our communication materials to updating records and managing announcements, she’s the one keeping us all informed and on track. Rachel also oversees our in-house multimedia platforms, bringing creativity and precision to every project she touches. If there’s a task that needs doing, Rachel is the go-to person who always delivers beautifully—and right on time.
Issac Lyon
Daytime Custodian
Issac is the backbone of our facility, ensuring everything runs smoothly and stays spotless. From drilling into concrete and fixing toilets to keeping every corner of our space impeccably clean, he does it all with a smile. His hard work and positive attitude shine through in everything he does, and we are so grateful for the dedication he brings every day.
Delphine Noutsougan
Evening Custodian
Delphine Noutsougan is our dedicated evening and weekend custodian. She works tirelessly every weeknight and alternate weekends to keep our church sparkling clean and inviting. With her attention to detail, Delphine maintains our premises' pristine cleanliness and efficiently sets up and takes down all events with a smile that brightens every corner.
Dawn Bonnema
Part Time Day Custodian
Dawn can be found at First Christian Reformed Church every Tuesday and Thursday morning, bringing a calming and gentle spirit to all who walk through our doors. Her peaceful presence is a true gift, and her dedication, alongside our amazing custodial team, ensures that our building is always ready to welcome everyone.