Staff

Pastor Matthew Earls has served as the Senior Pastor at Northern Lakes Church since 2021. Alongside First Lady Michelle, he has devoted the past fourteen years of his life to vocational ministry.

Pastor Matthew is a graduate of Ohio Christian University with a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership and Pastoral Ministry and also holds a Master of Divinity with a focus on Practical Theology from OCU. Currently, Pastor Earls is pursuing a Doctorate of Ministry from Indiana Wesleyan University - Wesley Seminary.

Pastor Matthew is a devoted husband to Michelle, and together they are proud parents and grandparents. Their daughter, Samantha, and her husband, John, have recently welcomed their daughter, Emmerson, while their son, Tyler, and his wife, Madison, have a daughter Lennon Tate.

In addition to his ministry work, Pastor Matthew has a great passion for playing guitar, drums, and bass, as well as recording music in his studio. He also has a deep love for riding motorcycles and studying ancient history. Pastor Matthew enjoys hiking and biking with his wife, Michelle, cherishing the time spent exploring the great outdoors together.

Michael is honored to join Northern Lakes Church as the new Assistant Ministry Director. As a part of his ministry journey, he is currently enrolled in the Wesleyan Church Ministerial Development program and anticipates receiving his ministerial license in May 2025. Upon receiving his license, he will officially assume the title of Assistant Pastor. Michael is also set to graduate with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute in Spring 2025.

He has been blessed with the opportunity to serve Northern Lakes Church in various capacities over the years, including roles as a church board member, deacon, and as a member of both the security and media teams. Beyond his involvement at Northern Lakes Church, Michael holds an MBA from the University of Northwestern and a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Applied Sciences from Texas State University.

He is privileged to share his life with his wife, Christy, who serves as the School Administrator for Ascension Academy which is facilitated at NLC. Together, they are blessed with seven children and five grandchildren, with whom they cherish spending quality time. Outside of ministry and family, Michael enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, fishing, and riding his Harley.

First Lady Michelle Earls has been an integral part of Northern Lakes Church since 2021, actively supporting her husband, Pastor Matthew Earls, in their fourteen-year journey of vocational ministry. Known for her warm and welcoming presence, Michelle is often seen greeting everyone who enters the doors of Northern Lakes Church, ensuring they feel part of the community. Michelle currently leads the NLC Impact Student Ministry as Youth Director and oversees NLC Children's Church.

Michelle and Matthew are proud parents of two children and have two grandchildren. Their daughter, Samantha, and her husband, John, have recently welcomed their daughter, Emmerson, while their son, Tyler, and his wife, Madison, have a daughter named Lennon Tate.

Michelle is set to graduate in Spring 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership & Pastoral Ministry from Ohio Christian University. She plans to further her education by pursuing a Master of Divinity from Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University in the fall. Additionally, Michelle serves as a Hospice Chaplain for St. Croix Hospice, offering God's love and support to many families in the region.

In her personal life, Michelle has a profound love for the outdoors and enjoys spending time hiking, mountain climbing, and mountain biking. She has a deep affection for animals, particularly her 10-year-old Brussels Griffon, Molly.

Heidi has been a valued member of Northern Lakes Church since 2013. She has served as the NLC Office Administrator since 2014. Alongside her husband, Wayne, of 37 years, she has found a true sense of hope and meaningful friendships within the church community, which they proudly call their home. Heidi's desire is to serve enthusiastically and share her excitement about Jesus and her church family with others.

Heidi and Wayne are blessed to have an adult son, Wade, who, together with his partner Rebekah, are raising their daughter, Octavia. The family enjoys spending quality time together, often indulging in activities such as bicycling, camping, and globe-trotting adventures. At home, Heidi finds solace in reading and takes delight in watching her numerous pets roam the yard.

Heidi is particularly thrilled to be a grandmother, as her granddaughter Octavia will be turning four this year. Apart from her devotion to Jesus, Heidi harbors a special passion for Shiba-Inu. She currently has two beloved Shibas: a male named Kitsune and a female named Inari, both of whom bring joy and companionship to her life.

Arlene has been an active and dedicated member of Northern Lakes Church since 2003, attending faithfully with her husband, Mike, to whom she has been married for 48 years. She appreciates the warm and welcoming atmosphere at the church, valuing its friendly and community-oriented spirit as well as its growing involvement in reaching out to the local community. Since joining, Arlene has contributed significantly to the church by serving as the NLC Treasurer, a role she has held with diligence and commitment since 2003.

In her free time, Arlene finds joy in various activities, primarily centered around her family and personal interests. She loves reading and taking leisurely walks, often accompanied by the playful company of her five grandchildren, who are a source of great joy and inspiration for her. Her passion for helping and serving others is a defining trait, and she often seeks ways to support those in her community.

Beyond her devotion to family and church, Arlene has an affinity for giraffes and spends time cultivating her flower garden, where she takes pleasure in nurturing a variety of blooms. An accomplished cook and baker, she takes pride in preparing delicious meals and treats for family gatherings. Above all, she cherishes the moments spent with her beloved husband, Mike, as they navigate life together with love and laughter.