Jim Lankheet
Senior Pastor
jimlankheet@beechwoodchurch.org
786-9009 ex. 104
|
Jim's role as Senior Pastor involves serving the leadership and congregation in preaching, vision casting, mentoring, and working with the staff and leadership in implementing goals and plans. Jim is married to Martha and they are parents of two sons - Kevin ('89) and David ('92)
Jim joined the staff in 2002. Prior to that he served in church planting in Florida and on staff of churches in California and New Jersey.
Getting to know Jim better:
In my CD player: Chris Rice and Christian Thomas Lee
On my bookshelf: The Leader's Journey by Harrington, Creech and Taylor, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson, Be Fruitful and Multiply by Robert Logan
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I enjoy family time, being outdoors - hiking, gardening and canoeing - and exercising
You might be surprised to know that: I have a Masters degree in Social Work and would probably be directing a social service agency if I wasn't called into Christian ministry.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Ephesians 4:11-12 "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up." |
Dawn Vagle
Wholness Pastor
dawnvagle@beechwoodchurch.org
786-9009 ex.109
|
Dawn's role as pastor for the Wholeness Ministry is to help people make healthy connections with God, their individual self and with each other. Spiritual formation and Wholeness Care within the congregation will be her major emphasis.
Dawn and her husband, Tim, joined the membership of Beechwood in 2007, feeling like they found a spiritual home, and are grateful for the community here. They met when they attended the same college in Springfield, MO and have two sons, Daniel and Michael who are both graduates of Hope College.
Getting to know Dawn better:
In my CD player: Susan Duffield (Christian singing artist), classical and jazz piano
On my bookshelf: Madeleine L'Engle, Kathleen Norris and Anne LaMott
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I love to be outside, gardening, running, walking, riding my bike, cross-country skiing and sometimes just sitting.
You might be surprised to know that: I grew up on an egg farm in Brooksville, Florida and can't stand eggs to this day.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Job 19:25"I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth." |
Bo Mircea
Children's Ministries Director
bo@beechwoodyouth.org
786-9009 ex. 120
|
Bo is Director of Children's Ministries, including the Beechwood Kids Hope chapter, but his role is more than just organizing details. He loves the kids and is excited about his team of 150 volunteers who are seen, trained and released to serve the ministries to children at Beechwood.
Bo joined the staff of Beechwood in November of 2002 after moving to Michigan from Romania where he had served in numberous ministerial positions. He is also currently taking classes at Western Theological Seminary in support of his role leading the Children's Ministry of Beechwood.
Getting to know Bo better:
In my CD player: Bruce Springsteen, Toby Mac, Stefan Iordache
On my bookshelf: Romanian poetry by Mihai Eminescu, Revolution by George Barna, Institutes of Christian Religion by John Calvin
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I'm a computer geek always trying to learn something new. I also enjoy photography and reading (especially if it is not required seminary reading)
You might be surprised to know that: Contrary to popular belief, being born in Transylvania does not make you a vampire.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Psalm 13:5 "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me." |
|
Eric's role at Beechwood is to pastor the middle school and high school "flock" and their families. This is done through planning programs, teaching in both large and small groups, meeting one-on-one with kids and parents, and generally just "sharing life" with students. Eric has been happily married to Jen since 1992 and they have two great kids - Claire ('98) and Jacob ('00)
Eric joined the staff of Beechwood in 2006. Prior to coming to Beechwood, Eric was the Youth Pastor at Zion Reformed Church in Grandville, MI for nearly 10 years. He holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Calvin College and has taken numerous classes at Western Theological Seminary here in Holland.
Getting to know Eric better:
In my CD player: Chris Tomlin, U2, Jack Johnson
On my bookshelf: Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning, Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard and all the Harry Potter books
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I hang out with my family, connect with students at sporting events, coffee shops and breakfast places, enjoy watching any University of Michigan sporting event.
You might be surprised to know that: I am a twin! My twin sister, Lisa, lives in Centerville, MI
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: James 4:8 "Come near to God, and He will come near to you." |
|
Tracy helps to provide an atmosphere of authentic, effective, Holy Spirit-inspired worship and involves and encourages those who have God-given talents in the arts to use their gifts for the glory of God and for the encouragement of His people. She lives with her Jack Russell Terrier, Jackee, but considers her Beechwood friends her family as well.
She joined the staff of Beechwood in 2006, coming to us from Walnut Creek, California. She grew up in South Carolina, has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Winthrop University as well as a minor in chemistry and an associate degree in Recreation. She has served in full-time church ministry for 23 years.
Getting to know Tracy better:
In my CD player: Not a fair question to a musician! I couldn't choose favorites and I'm very eclectic in the music styles I enjoy.
On my bookshelf: Max Lucado, Joyce Meyer and C.S. Lewis
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I like to go to the beach, work in my yard and watch TV - all with Jackee!
You might be surprised to know that: I jumped off of Mt. Tamaplais and landed on Stinson Beach in an awesome hangliding adventure in California in 2005. I'm also a nationally certified phlebotomist!
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Psalm 18:2 "The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; He is my high tower and the horn of my salvation."
Ephesians 3:20 "Now praise to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us!" |
|
Mark has been leading worship at the Bridge worship service since fall of 2005. He met Trisha at Beechwood and they married in July of 2007.
Mark has been been leading worship in various churches throughout southern Michigan for 15 years. He also teaches guitar lessons and has composed and recorded a CD of his own Christian songs.
Getting to know Mark better:
In my CD player: Chris Tomlin, David Crowder, The Eagles
On my bookshelf: Wild at Heart by John Eldridge, Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, The Bible
When I'm Not at Beechwood: you'll find me hiking with my dog, reading and recording
You might be surprised to know that: I have had only 8 guitar lessons, and those when I was 13.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Galatians 6:9 "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." |
|
Marv Beukelman
Pastor of Congregational Care
marvbeukelman@beechwoodchurch.org
786-9009 ex. 111
|
Marv organizes and oversees the care ministry, making many hospital calls and home visits as well as coordinating the activities of the many volunteers who assist people who have physical and spiritual needs. He joined the staff at Beechwood in 2001 and brings with him 40 years of ministry experience, having served churches in 4 states. He has continued his pastoral education by taking additional courses in assisting people with their various needs.
Marv is happily married to Ida and they have 4 children - two living in the Holland area and two in Iowa. They have also been blessed with 14 grandchildren.
Getting to know Marv better:
In my CD player: Andre Rieu, the Holland Chorale, Windom Hill
On my bookshelf: Francine Rivers, Sientze Buning, books that deal with the impact of science on Christianity
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I enjoy family activities, gardening and reading.
You might be surprised to know that: I enjoy animal husbandry - the care and raising of domesticated animals - particularly dairy cattle.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Romans 10:9: "That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." |
Mike Gafa
Executive Director of Ministries
mikegafa@beechwoodchurch.org
786-9009 ex. 106
|
Mike's role at Beechwood is equal parts administrator, catalyst for change, mentor to others, and overseer and contributor to the ministries of the church. Mike is happily married to Pam, and is proud father of their two sons - Spencer ('96) and Trevor ('96)
Mike joined the Beechwood staff in 2005. Prior to that, he worked in a variety of leadership roles in the corporate sector. He holds a Bachelors degree in Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University.
Getting to know Mike better:
In my CD player: Jars of Clay, Jeff Buckley, The Waterboys
On my bookshelf: What's So Amazing about Grace by Phillip Yancey, The Last Juror by John Grisham, and Let Your Life Speak by Parker Palmer
When I'm Not at Beechwood: Doing things with my family, sports (mostly watching these days!), reading
You might be surprised to know that: I am Maltese (my father came to the US from Malta at the age of nine)
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Philippians 2:1-2: "If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose." |
Helen Walker
Administration / Receptionist
helenwalker@beechwoodchurch.org
786-9009 ex. 100
|
Helen has a smiling face in our front office. Her responsibilities recently changed to make her the receptionist as well as providing support to the rest of the staff as needed. Helen has 5 children (all married and 3 living in the Holland area) and 11 grandchildren. Now widowed, Helen considers the Beechwood members and staff her family.
Helen joined the staff in 1995 following a career as an executive secretary at Batts, Inc. here in Holland.
Getting to know Helen better:
In my CD player: Carole King, Canadian Brass, choral music. I love all music - except opera and jazz
On my bookshelf: several by Max Lucado and mysteries - especially John Grisham
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I enjoy volunteering, especially with Alpha and Kids Hope, and I love spending time with my grandchildren.
You might be surprised to know that: I am "fluent" in short hand and can take dictation.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Psalm 16:8 "I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." |
Laura Wierda
Administration / Database Management
laurawierda@beechwoodchurch.org
786-9009 ex. 107
|
Laura is one of our front office staff. Her responsibilities include managing the membership database and providing clerical support to the ministry staff. Laura is married to Mark and they have two daughters - Bethany and Rebekah.
Although she was baptized as a child at Beechwood and has attended as a member all her life, Laura only joined the staff in 1995.
Getting to know Laura better:
In my CD player: I don't listen to a lot of CD's, but I enjoy listening to WCSG radio.
On my bookshelf: historical fiction and mysteries
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I enjoy quilting, biking and working on my family genealogy
You might be surprised to know that: I am an inspector for Dutch costumes for Holland's Tulip Time
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Psalms 19:1-2 "The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge." |
Jim Borgman
Building and Grounds Superintendent
jimborgman@beechwoodchurch.org
786-9009 ex. 176
|
Jim oversees maintenance of our property and wonderful facilities, keeps them clean and also keeps the schedules for outside groups who rent our facilities. He is happily married to Mary and they have three wonderful children - Molly ('96), Garrett ('99), and Elly ('02).
He has been our weekend custodian for many years, but in 2006 he joined the staff full time. Prior to that, he worked at Nelson Steel as a line leader, dealing with steel production and tight hole tolerances.
Getting to know Jim better:
In my CD player: Lincoln Brewster, U2, Santana
On my bookshelf:Lake Michigan anglers
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I love to spend time with my family and also fish for salmon on Lake Michigan.
You might be surprised to know that: I am the only person in my immediate family that has red hair!
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Galatians 6:9 "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." |
|
Laura is the accountant at Beechwood, handling the bookkeeping details for all the money that comes in and all that is spent. She has been married to her husband Mike since 1986 and they have two wonderful children - Emily ('89) and Dean ('95).
Laura has been attending Beechwood since the 1960's. When her grandmother moved here from Chicago in the 90's they had four generations of their family worshipping together. Laura feels that growing up in Holland with frequent visits to see relatives in Chicago gave her a well-rounded background of big city experience mixed in with small town living.
Getting to know Laura better:
In my CD player:Whatever my kids are listening to, although Elton John is my favorite and for the past few years I've been on a country kick.
On my bookshelf:I've read through the Bible several times in the past decade, and small devotional books, along with whatever my kids are reading in school. I'm sure I'll have more time to read real books again when I get older!
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I spend time on the boat (in summer) or scrapbooking (in winter) or attending my kids activities and volunteering all over the place!
You might be surprised to know that:I've made the baptism banners for every baby baptized at Beechwood since 1989!
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Isaiah 40:31 "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." |
Seminary Student Interns
|
|
Jodie is currently attending Kuyper College, studying youth ministry, and working at Beechwood as an intern in student ministries. She grew up in Jenison, where her parents still live, and has two older sisters, one of whom is married. They are a very close family.
She joined the staff of Beechwood in the May of 2008. She is looking forward to learning more about planning programs and also plans to hang out with students whenever possible!
Getting to know Jodie better:
In my CD player: Casting Crowns, Jack Johnson, Selah
On my bookshelf: The Tangible Kingdom by Hugh Halter and Matt Smay, Traveling Mercies by Ann Lamont, and Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I love to bake, play tennis, hangout with friends and family at the beach and take pictures.
You might be surprised to know that: I worked at an egg farm.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Lamentations 3:25 "The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him;" |
Tim Shotmeyer
Intern for Church Planting
timshotmeyer@beechwoodchurch.org
|
Tim is currently a student at Western Theological Seminary and began attending Beechwood in fall of 2007. He is now serving as an intern here and is working with the Church Planting Team.
Prior to joining the staff of Beechwood in spring of 2008, Tim served as Director of Development at The Hun School of Princeton. Tim is the 5th of 6 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He married the love of his life, Sarah, in August of 2007 (with her father serving as officiating pastor), and they are the proud aunt and uncle to 4 nephews and 5 nieces.
Getting to know Tim better:
In my CD player: Neil Diamond, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen
On my bookshelf: Out of Your Comfort Zone by George Verwer, What's So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancy, The Boy Scout Handbook
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I like to read, work in my itty, bitty garden and spend time with my beautiful wife, Sarah.
You might be surprised to know that: After high school, I was going to go to the Coast Guard Academy, until a small Clydesdale hourse fell at a full gallop and rolled over on me - crushing my lower leg!
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Jeremiah 29:11 "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" |
Mike Weaver
Intern for Wholeness Ministry
mikeweaver@beechwoodchurch.org
|
Mike is attending Western Theological Seminary and has joined the Beechwood staff to work as an intern with the Wholeness Ministry. He and his wife, Melanie are expecting their first child in March of 2009.
Mike and Melanie began attending Beechwood in April of 2008. Prior to their arrival in Holland, Mike had recently finished a degree in Sports Medicine/ Athletic Training at Winon State University in Minnesota.
Getting to know Mike better:
In my CD player: Skillet, U2 and Bebo Norman
On my bookshelf: C.S. Lewis, John Eldredge and If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get Out of the Boat by John Ortberg
When I'm Not at Beechwood: I like to play basketball (or any other sports like baseball, racquetball, ultimate frisbee, golf, etc), relax in front of the TV, computer or stereo and be with my wife and baby-to-be
You might be surprised to know that: My wife and I met through an internet dating service. I guess they really can work!
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Isaiah 30:15b "...in quietness and confidence is your strength..." and Hebrews 10:22-23 Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. |
Eagle's Wings Church
A Spanish-speaking church planted by Beechwood
|
Hugo ministers to the Hispanics in our community through our new church plant, Eagles Wings Church. Hugo is married to Sarah and they have four children - Hugo B. ('00), Peter ('02), Paula ('02) and Caleb ('05).
Hugo and his family came to Beechwood in 2006 from Texas, where he had worked as a Christian school principal and pastor..
Getting to know Hugo better:
In my CD player: Marcos with, Jesus Adrian Romero, BB King
On my bookshelf: The Bible, Living by the Book by Howard G. Hendricks, The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale
When I'm Not at Beechwood: Reading, fishing or hunting
You might be surprised to know that: I like poetry.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." |
|
Norma recently joined the staff of Eagles Wings Church where she started as a volunteer in fall of 2007. Her duties include those involved in helping implement the vision for the church as well as to equip and empower leaders.
Norma is third in a family of 4 kids and comes to Holland from Mexico. She worked there for almost 6 years as an administrative assistant to a pastor.
Getting to know Norma better:
In my CD player: Marcos Narrientos,Jesus Adreian Romero, Vineyard
On my bookshelf: Jesus Freaks: stories of Those Who Stood for Jesus by DC Talk, any book by John Maxwell, For Such a Time as This by Lisa Ryan
When I'm Not at Beechwood: Read, cook, watch movies
You might be surprised to know that: I like to sell silver jewlery.
Scripture verses that have significantly impacted my life: Proverbs 4:18 "The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day."
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to propser you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." |
|
