ARC Alliance of Reformed Churches Reformed doctrine West Olive MI A Real Church of Real People Ottawa Reformed Church Welcome We believe that “church” is not a building. It is people in relationship with God because people matter. We seek to be a real church of real people living in a real world searching for real answers. Join us to discover more. October Preaching Schedule : 10/4. AM: Dr Jim. PM: Pastor Mike 10/11. AM: Dr Jim. PM: Pastor Mike 10/18. AM: Pastor Mike PM: Dr Jim 10/25. AM: Dr Jim. PM: Pastor Mike Evening Sermon Series: THE ACTionS OF THE APOSTLES 2026-27 Student Registration Upcoming Events Calendar Giving Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM & 5:00 PM Office hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Sermons Location Our Ministries Young Children NURSERY CHILDREN & WORSHIP SUNDAY SCHOOL CREW (Wednesday) VBS Youth JR. HIGH YOUTH SR. HIGH YOUTH SUNDAY SCHOOL GEMS/CADETS ( Wed.) PRAISE TEAM BIBLES & BOWS KIDS' ARCHERY ORC PLAYERS ORC DANCE Young Adults YAP PRAISE TEAM ORC PLAYERS ORC DANCE Adults MEN'S RECHARGE MOM'S PLAYGROUP PRAISE TEAM BIBLE STUDIES HOME BIBLE STUDIES L.A.M.B. SINGLE WOMEN'S STUD FINDERS More... HAND2HAND HEALTH MINISTRIES KIDS HOPE LIBRARY MEN'S BASKETBALL ORC OUTDOORS BIBLES & BOWS TOOL TIME MINISTRIES WIT & WISDOM WOW KNITTING

Our Team Dr. Jim Poit Pastor of Preaching, Teaching & Outreach jpoit@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 101 Rev. Michael Van Buren Pastor of Administration & Congregational Care mvanburen@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 102 Our Team Kristin Bredeweg Worship Coordinator kbredeweg@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 103 Michelle Bekius Children's Education Director mbekius@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 104 Emily Raak CREW Coordinator (616) 512-9251 ext. 104 Danielle Thomas Junior High Youth Director dthomas@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 115 Brad Kleinjans Senior High Youth Director bkleinjans@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 116 Barb Prince Administrative Assistant office@ottawareformed.org or bprince@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 108 Lori Geerts Kids Hope USA Director lgeerts@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 105 Dan Hughes Facility Custodian dhughes@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 106 Kristi Geertman Lead Administrative Assistant office@ottawareformed.org or kgeertman@ottawareformed.org (616) 512-9251 ext. 108 OTTAWA REFORMED CHURCH 2026/2027 CONSISTORY ELDERS DEACONS Tim Emmert Tom Hill Ken Prince Kevin Bekius Bruce DeVries Glenn Emmert Kurt Vegt Andrew Geertman Andrew Prince Roger Whitman Nate Engelsma Austin Morren Luke DeHaan Grant Gillissie EXECUTIVE COUNCIL Pastor of Preaching, Teaching & Outreach Dr. Jim Poit 512.9251 ext.101 President Pastor Michael Van Buren 512.9251 ext.102 Vice President Kevin Bekius Clerk Glenn Emmert Treasurer Andrew Geertman Chairman of Deacons Roger Whitman Member at Large Terry Geertman Financial Administrator Kevin Bekius 2025/2026 COUNCIL CHAIRPERSONS Business Administration Pastor Michael Van Buren 512.9251 ext.102 Congregational Care Pastor Michael Van Buren 512.9251 ext.102 Outreach Dr. Jim Poit 512.9521 ext.101 Spiritual Formation Dr. Jim Poit 512.9521 ext.101 Worship Dr. Jim Poit 512.9251 ext.101 CHURCH DIRECTORY Administrative Assistants Kristi Geertman, Barb Prince 512.9251 ext.108 Children’s Education Director Michelle Bekius 512.9251 ext.104 Worship Coordinator Kristin Bredeweg 512.9251 ext.103 Kids Hope Director Lori Geerts 512.9251 ext.105 Jr. High Youth Director Danielle Thomas S r. High Youth Dir ector Brad Kleinjans Facility Administrator Tim Emmert Facility Custodian Dan Hughes 512.9251 ext.106 Sunday School Coordinator Michelle Bekius Cadets Ed Schrotenboer GEMS Girls’ Club Denise Miedema CREW Coordinator Emily Raak Children & Worship Michelle Bekius Nursery Coordinator Rachel Hughes Coffee & Juice Coordinator Marie Grassmid Flowers & Decorations Coordinator Greeter Coordinator Mark & Lydia Brown Hand2Hand Ministry Kim Dunn Librarian Sandy DeGlopper Meal Ministry Coordinator Barb Prince Medical Assistance Ministry Tara Schrotenboer ORC Outdoors Roger Whitman ORC Players Jeff Coffey Safety Team Coordinator Ed Schrotenboer Small Groups Coordinator Nancy Haveman Social Committee Tim & Amy Emmert Sound & Screen Coordinator Kristin Bredeweg 512.9251 ext.103 Welcome Center Coordinator Noreen Van Buren Wit & Wisdom Beverly Jaarsma WOW Knitting Sandy De Glopper YAP Kim Geertman Christian Education Assistance Fund Board Members Jeremy Bekius, Nathan Englesma, Brent Miedema, Ken Prince, & Angela Soulliere Endowment Fund Board Members: Kevin Bekius, Jeff Dunn, Barb Prince, Mackenzie Prince, & Pastor Mike Van Buren

Young Children Nursery We offer a nursery for both of our Sunday services staffed by two adults and one youth age ten or older. The nursery is located off of the north lobby on the main floor (all volunteers have passed a background check). Children & Worship Children & Worship is an exciting way that young children, ages 3 years through Kindergarten , experience God while learning about God. We worship in a special place apart from the congregation so that the children learn a joyful way to worship God. The children are dismissed to "Children and Worship" following the Children's message. We use a sensorimotor style of storytelling where God is experienced. The children respond to the stories of God through working with the story figures and art materials. The intent of worship is to experience and praise God. We learn that God is one of mystery, awe and wonder. We worship God using a greeting, praise song, Biblical stories and parables, prayer and blessing. This remarkably provides a way for young children to tell stories about God to others! Sunday School Sunday School classes are offered for all ages following the morning service from 11:00 -11:45 AM . Regular classes begin September 13, 2026, and will conclude on May 2, 2027. Our Sunday School offering will be collected for Growing Hope Globally , a Christian response to hunger. CREW - Children Really Exploring the Word CREW is for children ages 3 years through 1st grade . Children have the opportunity to participate with their peers while learning Biblical truths in story and song. The goal of this ministry is to enjoy God together as we learn and grow in Him. We meet in classrooms in the lower level of the church building from 6:30-8:00 PM on Wednesday nights from September 16, 2026, through March 31, 2027.

Dan began his position at Ottawa in June 2019. He and his wife Rachel have three children — Aubrey, Tyler, and Lauren. Outside of work, Dan enjoys woodworking, painting and finishing cabinets and furniture, spending time with his wife and kids, golfing, camping, and working in the garden. Dan enjoys working at ORC to be able to keep God’s house clean so that we may worship together in the best environment possible. “I am pleased with the amazing facility we have, and I am proud to represent ORC. Always on my mind is Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Mike Van Buren was born August 31, 1952, in the small town of Waupun, WI. Mike is a third-generation citizen as his grandparents were all born in the Netherlands. He is also a third-generation RCA member as all his family became RCA members upon their arrival. Mike attended Waupun Christian Schools from first through eighth grade and went on to graduate from Waupun Public High School in 1970. From there he attended and graduated from Hope College in 1974 and Western Theological Seminary in 1977. Mike was married to Noreen Straks in 1972 as she (also from Waupun... yes, high school sweethearts) joined him in Holland, Michigan and worked full time while Mike went through college and seminary. Mike and Noreen were called out of seminary to Glen Lake Community Reformed Church in 1977 and served the church until September 1982. On October 2, 1982, he became the Pastor of Ottawa Reformed Church where he served until December 31, 1997. On January 1, 1998, he took the call to Fellowship Reformed Church of Hudsonville, MI and served there until June 3, 2018. On September 1, 2018, Mike became the Executive Pastor of Ottawa Reformed Church under contract. Mike and Noreen were blessed with two children, Carlia (Van Buren) Schippers and Brad Van Buren. They are also blessed with four grandchildren, Jack Schippers, Breslin Schippers, Brayden Van Buren, and Haley Van Buren and in-laws Jamison Schippers and Karla (Kooiker) Van Buren. The children live locally, and Mike and Noreen stay intimately involved in all of their lives. Yes, I am back after 20 years and I pray God blesses our path as we walk it with each other and with our Lord. Mike

Young Adults Praise Team Praise Team generally meets on Wednesday evenings to practice for Sunday morning service. This is not a team for professionals. In fact, it's a team for "all in" Jesus lovin' people who wanna use their gift of music to praise the One who gave His gift to us and help prepare the hearts of people to receive the spoken word of God. Age is just a number ... so if you love Jesus, you're the perfect age for this team! Contact Kristin to join! kbredeweg@ottawareformed.org ORC Players (not currently meeting) The Ottawa Reformed Church Players is a collection of youth and young adults that express their love for Christ through acting, dance and song. The group consists of up to 30 people between the ages of 5 through early twenties. The make-up is not only members and friends of ORC but, also represents kids from surrounding communities. The group puts on a number of different types of quality performances throughout the year. Shows range from full scale plays with singing and dancing at local theaters, to smaller performances during church worship services. ORC Players is open to any youth with or without experience. The group consists of a nice combination of experienced actors and actresses, and people with little to no experience. No auditions needed - just the desire to have fun & entertain! ORC Dance (not currently meeting) Dance class is on Monday evenings in February, March and April. Boys and girls, ages 5 and up, of all skill level are welcome to join. Class will be from 6:30-7:30 PM and is located in the Grace Center Gym. This is a fun class that helps kids learn gymnastics skills, dance technique, social skills - all while worshiping Jesus Christ! Young Adult People (YAP) YAP is dinner, Bible Study, and discussion for all Young Adult People age 18-30. Join us as we grow spiritually and have awesome fellowship with lots of fun! We meet the third Sunday of the month , 6:30-8:00 PM, from September through April. #growingspiritually #awesomefellowship #lotsoffun

Kristi serves as our Lead Administrative Assistant. She loves her job as she gets to use her gifts and abilities to serve the Lord daily. As a lifelong member and second-generation Administrative Assistant, Kristi has a great love for the church members and the surrounding community. She has been married to her husband, Terry, (also a lifelong member of Ottawa Reformed Church) since 1991. They have two sons and two wonderful daughters-in-law. In addition to her staff position, Kristi serves voluntarily in the Wednesday Night CREW program, and she actively participates in Outreach and Congregational Care Events.

We are a community of biblical congregations who believe that it is important to affirm that the Bible is God’s written Word and those who follow Jesus live under the Bible’s authority as written. The Alliances' website The Alliances' Facebook page

sermons Watch our video sermons here . We have links to both our morning and evening worship services as well as special services. online bible Online reading with Bible Gateway. Read or listen to, "Verse of the Day", search by topic, book, chapter and many other ways.

***** Star Scripture Memory Program ***** We encourage you to draw close to our Mighty God through His word, the Bible, and store up scripture in your heart! Memorizing scripture helps us learn about God’s love for us and our need for His saving grace. With some help from your parents and teachers, you can learn more and more of God’s precious words, promises, and commandments. Each time you memorize a passage, you will be excused from class to recite it to the Sunday School Secretary in the church basement office. Your name will be recorded on the Star Memory board, and once you’ve completed a level, you will be awarded a Star Memory Certificate to congratulate you on your achievement! Level One Star 1* Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Star 2* Psalm 95:5 The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land. Star 3* Psalm 95:6 O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our maker! Star 4* Acts 16:31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household." Star 5* Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Level Two Star 1* Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Star 2* Hebrews 9:27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment. Romans 5:8 But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Star 3* Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, Ephesians 2:9 Not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Star 4* John 1:12 But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God. John 3:17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. Star 5* John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. John 10:29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of my Father’s hand. Level Three Star 1* Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one— to his own way. Isaiah 53:5 But He was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. Star 2* I Peter 5:7 Casting all your anxieties on Him, because he cares for you. James 4:8 Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Star 3* Proverbs 20:11 Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Star 4* Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Ephesians 6:2 Honor your father and mother (this is the first commandment with a promise). Star 5* John 14:15 If you love me, you will keep my commandments. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Level Four Star 1* Psalm 100:3 Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Psalm 100:1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Star 2* Proverbs 12:21 No ill befalls the righteous, but the wicked are filled with trouble. Psalm 118:1 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever! Psalm 106:1 Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever! Star 3* Ecclesiastes 12:1 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them.” Isaiah 55:6 Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Star 4* John 6:47 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I John 4:19 We love because He first loved us. Psalm 119:11 I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Star 5* Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Galatians 5:14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Level Five Star 1* Matthew 6: 9-13 The Lord’s Prayer - Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever. Amen Star 2* Exodus 20:1-17 The Ten Commandments Star 3* Matthew 5:1-12 The Beatitudes Star 4* Psalm 23 The Lord is My Shepherd Star 5* Books of the Old and New Testaments Level Six Star 1* Psalm 100 Star 2* Isaiah 53 Star 3* I Corinthians 13 Star 4* Romans 8:26-39 Star 5* John 14:1-7 Level Seven Star 1* Matthew 5:13-32 Star 2* Matthew 5:33-6:4 Star 3* Matthew 6:5-24 Star 4* Matthew 6:25-7:12 Star 5* Matthew 7:13-29

tHE lIBRARY AT orc "Check out" our collection of fiction, non-fiction, teen, t'ween and children's books. Our non-fiction section is filled with devotionals, spiritual & family books. We've recently expanded our teen & t'ween fiction sections with many new exciting series. We are constantly adding to our existing series and adding new authors. We have over 100 family friendly DVD's & VHS tapes and over 150 children's DVD's & VHS tapes. "Check out" our puzzle library too! Ottawa Reformed Church has a library that offers many books, books on tape, videos, tapes and CD's, available for all ages. The Library is staffed following each worship service. Stay connected with Ottawa family and friends through Facebook. vISIT US ON FACEBOOK