Our team
Meet Our Staff
The people who serve The Hope family every week — and can’t wait to meet you.
Lead Pastor
Pastor Norm Oberlin
Pastor Norm and Pastor Barb have been pastoring The Hope in Gaylord for years. They both love working and playing in Northern Michigan. “We have some of the best people in the world,” Pastor Norm has said many times. Norm has been married to his wife Barb for 48 years, and they have raised four boys and now have ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Associate Pastor
Pastor Barb Oberlin
Pastor Barb’s goal is not just to reach people for Jesus, but to see them discipled as well! She loves the people of The Hope and has a blast working with them in ministry. She believes it is essential to be real and share how the gospel has affected her, and she is passionate to see people set free and loving God.
Worship Leader
Ariane Bravo
Ariane and her husband, Ben, love serving the Lord together — especially through music. Over the past 20 years, Ariane has been part of several outstanding worship teams, including leading worship at their previous church in California. She feels honored to lead worship again at The Hope.
Youth Pastor
Melinda Lovell
Melinda’s heart is for youth. She has a passion for helping them encounter God and teaching them how to live for the Lord in their everyday lives. A favorite verse: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers…” (1 Timothy 4:12).
Children’s Pastor
Austin Russell
Pastor Austin has a heart for kids and a big mission: helping them build a strong foundation in faith while having an awesome time! Through fun, hands-on activities and inspiring lessons, he helps kids grow in their relationship with God.
Preschool/Nursery Director
Sarah Oberlin
Sarah has a passion for kids and can’t wait to help raise a generation that is on fire for the Lord. She loves to teach kids and wants them not only to know who the Lord is, but to have a genuine relationship with Him.
Maintenance Director
Mike Gill
Mike keeps our building and grounds ready to welcome everyone who walks through our doors.