Nick Berlanga
Lead Pastor
Pastor Nicolas grew up in Mundy Township. He earned a B.A. from Alma College and entered the business world where he worked in Human Resources, Payroll and as a Payroll Software Consultant. In 2012, Nick took on the role of part-time pastor for Melvindale New Hope UMC, and in 2016 he became a full-time member of the clergy at Plymouth First.
In addition to his B.A. from Alma College, Nick has an MBS from Walsh College and a Masters of Divinity from the Methodist Theological Seminary in Ohio. He has served as a member of the clergy at Melvindale, Plymouth, Ann Arbor First, Canton Cherry Hill and Ypsilanti St. Matthews.
Along the way he met Lisa, they married and had three children, Victoria, Zane and Marisa. All three are now young adults and have given Nick three grandchildren with a fourth on the way.
Sadly, after 31 years of marriage, Lisa passed away from ALS in late 2020. Nick continued to serve as a member of the clergy for another year after Lisa’s death, but finally decided to take a leave of absence to allow his spirit to heal. During that time, he worked as a substitute elementary school teacher. His time with children rekindled his love of teaching, mentoring and uplifting people.
While on leave Nick also reunited with his college sweetheart, Tara. Despite not seeing each other for 35 years, they instantly reconnected and recently married. Tara is a college professor and published author but retains her small-town Michigan roots.
Pastor Nick is excited to be returning to the area of his youth and looks forward to seeing what God has in store for him and the Goodrich church as they journey into their next chapters together.
Jeannine Page-Tear
Administrative Assistant and Discipleship Coordinator
Jeannine is a long standing member of Goodrich United Methodist Church. As Administrative Assistant, Jeannine assists the church in fulfilling its mission, vision, and values. She assists the pastor, church members, and community to help facilitate the work of the church.
Jeannine is also the Discipleship Coordinator and has been involved in Christian Education most of her adult life. She, as Discipleship Coordinator, helps to create a fun and safe learning environment for children, youth, and adults. Jeannine holds an Associates degree in Applied Science from Baker College. Jeannine enjoys spending time with her three children, walking, reading, and is an avid card player.
Jeannine is also the Discipleship Coordinator and has been involved in Christian Education most of her adult life. She, as Discipleship Coordinator, helps to create a fun and safe learning environment for children, youth, and adults. Jeannine holds an Associates degree in Applied Science from Baker College. Jeannine enjoys spending time with her three children, walking, reading, and is an avid card player.
Rick Martin
Custodian
Rick started in his role in 2017 and has done a great job given his many years of experience in school systems. Rick grew up in the area. He loves his job and helping people he meets on the job. He really enjoys everyone he runs into and feels a part of the GUMC family.