Matt is passionate about helping others live more fully as followers of Jesus – he loves to help them discover the next steps Jesus is shaping in them. Prior to joining the NewLife family in 2020, Matt served as Minister of Discipleship at St. Luke in Ann Arbor, MI; as Senior Pastor at St. Luke’s in New Richmond, WI; and as Associate Pastor at Trinity in Wausau, WI. He received his M. Div. in 2006 from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO. Prior to entering pastoral ministry, Matt was an adjunct instructor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Central Michigan University where he earned his undergraduate degree. Matt and Jennifer married in 2001, and have four significant journeying partners in their children Gideon, Miriam, Eden, and Silas, whom they help to follow Jesus more intentionally. Matt loves growing pumpkins, catching walleye, and enjoying life together with friends and family around a big dining room table or a campfire.

matt.hein@newlifelutheran.net

Brooke graduated from Concordia University, Ann Arbor with a major in Music Performance and a minor in German. She and her husband , Sam, enjoy being the parents of Lucie, Karolein and Micah. Since 1997, Brooke has served the Lutheran Church in various roles within the ministries of Music and Worship. She has also been a speaker and/or music contributor to various events in the Church. She and her family served as missionaries in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay for two years. Upon returning to Michigan, they worked together to identify areas of urgent need for Gospel outreach to underserved rural Hispanic communities northwest of Lansing. Brooke joined NewLife as Director of Music and Worship in the fall of 2017.

brooke.orozco@newlifelutheran.net

Becky is a graduate of both Ferris State University and Michigan State University. She has earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work and specializes working with older and disabled adults and their families. Becky also enjoys working per diem at a local nursing and rehabilitation center. She was married to her husband, Brandon, in 2008 and together they have three children; Paisley, Owen and Sawyer. Becky and Brandon have been members at NewLife since 2012 and have enjoyed growing and serving within the church.

becky.carter@newlifelutheran.net

Suzie Thalhammer has been a faithful attender of NewLife since its formation, and has served with many different ministry teams over the years.  She graduated from Baker College, Flint with an Associates Degree in Hotel Management, and since June 2018, has been on Staff at NewLife as the Administrative Office Coordinator.  Suzie has been married to her high school sweetheart, Doug, for 28 years and God has blessed them with a daughter, Adeline, who currently attends Hope College in Holland, MI.  

suzie.thalhammer@newlifelutheran.net

Krista has a bachelors degree from University of Michigan-Flint in Wildlife Biology and enjoys working part time for the DNR at Holly Recreation Area. Krista and her husband, Justin, are the proud parents of a sweet little boy. They love spending time together in the outdoors, whether it’s camping, hiking, or just in the backyard with friends and family.  

krista.hughes@newlifelutheran.net

Sandy studied at Wayne State University and Walsh College of Accountancy and Business and was employed by EDS where she met her husband, John, of more than 30 years. Sandy and John have two adult children, Travis(Lauren) and Kristin, both of whom she homeschooled from their elementary years through high school. Sandy has been a member of the NewLife community for more than 20 years, where she has served with many ministry teams. Her roles have included directing the Children’s Ministries, being the Family Promise mission coordinator, and serving on the Board of Directors. 

sandra.striber@newlifelutheran.net

Ken Tagge has been a member since NewLife was formed. He has been an employee for over 20 years maintaining NewLife’s campus. He is married to his wife, Jane, and together they are both active within the church. Ken is also a member of our Board of Elders at NewLife.