Pastor Todd Eckstein is a 2019 graduate of Western Theological Seminary and has been called to serve as Lead Pastor of God’s ministry at Southern Heights Church, after two decades serving in full-time roles in camp and youth ministries. Todd is married to Joy and they have 4 children, Seth, Zoie, Hope and Liam. Todd loves the Pittsburgh Steelers and is eager to preach the Word of God and grow together with the Southern Heights Church family as we all seek to be Jesus to the world.
After graduating with a degree in business management and computer science from Calvin University, Jeff began leading in worship and music ministry. Later he added administrative roles utilizing the “business side” of his brain again. Then in 2017 he became the Executive Pastor which also includes being the church treasurer. He is married to Melissa Baas and has three daughters – Ellie, Sara and Sophia. He loves taking road-trips in his Jeep.
Deb joined the staff of Southern Heights church in 1995. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, she attended Central Michigan University and KVCC. She is married to Tom and they have 3 children, 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
“It is a privilege for me to lead a team of very caring individuals. Together, with God’s help and the resources available to us, we assist the members of our church in a variety of ways. Family helps family- that’s what we are and what we do!”
“It is a privilege for me to lead a team of very caring individuals. Together, with God’s help and the resources available to us, we assist the members of our church in a variety of ways. Family helps family- that’s what we are and what we do!”
Melissa Baas loves to teach children. She leads our Children and Family Ministries for children from birth through 5th grade. Melissa has a degree in Education specializing in Early Childhood Development and also teaches 1st grade at Kalamazoo Christian Elementary School. Her experience and passion for children will help them to know Jesus and grow in their knowledge and love for Him.
Tami is the perfect person for this position. She makes sure that everyone who wants to connect with others is in a perfect group to meet their needs. If you want to get to know people, or if you want to study a certain topic, you can call Tami who will find the right spot for you. Tami has a husband, Doug and 4 children.
“Team Leader” is a great job title for me, as I have wonderful teams of people who help keep Southern Heights clean, safe and beautiful. From Custodial, Building & Grounds, Green/Weed and Security teams they all do a wonderful job in their respective areas keeping this place in great shape. I enjoy making a team fit together and organizing work schedules plus keeping on top of the various aspects of maintaining our building and grounds. Married for 44 years, with 3 kids, 6 grand kids, 2 great grand kids and 4 grand-dogs, I keep busy both at church and at home. If you see something that needs attention by my teams, please feel free to communicate with me.
Judy grew up in South Haven and moved to Kalamazoo, where she met and married her husband, Gregg. Jesus has been Judy’s rock through both times of blessing and times of struggle. If you want to hear more about that, just ask her. Spending time with family is important to both Gregg & Judy, and it brings joy and richness to their lives. Working at Southern Heights has allowed Judy to use the gifts God has given her in gratitude to Him and to minister to others.
Luke faithfully oversees a team of dedicated people who care for missionaries that we support around the world.