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Worship LeaderErica Plesco

Worship Leader
Erica Plesco

Erica Plesco was a long-time spectator, but joined as a member of Royal Oak First in early 2018; formally joining the staff in September of 2020 as the Worship Coordinator. Erica believes strongly in the power of authentic spiritual connection and enjoys the art of blending

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Audio EngineerJoanna Whaley

Audio Engineer
Joanna Whaley

Joanna has been in worship ministry since her time as a student in college. Joanna has a pastoral passion who just happens to be able to create a compelling worship environment. She is the parent of three beautiful girls, and loves to spend time with them and take them to Disney World!

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The Compass Team

The Compass Team

The Compass Team is our governing board comprised of nine individuals. They help the church make strategic and efficient decisions as related to mission, vision and overall governance. 

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Collaborative PianistRachel Morin

Collaborative Pianist
Rachel Morin

Rachel is a pianist and teacher who gives lessons in her home in Troy. She holds doctorate and master’s degrees in piano performance and pedagogy from the University of Iowa and a Bachelor’s in Music from Cleveland Institute of Music. Rachel was music director for St. Andrew

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Lead Pastor Jeff Nelson

Lead Pastor Jeff Nelson

Pastor Jeff grew up in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. He has his Bachelors Degree in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire and his Masters in Divinity from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. Jeff and his wife, Bridget…..

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Associate Pastor Jennifer Tripoli

Associate Pastor Jennifer Tripoli

Jennifer Tripoli is our Executive Associate Pastor. She is a lifelong member who was baptized here in 1973 and married here in 1997. Jennifer joined us on staff in 2017 after years of volunteer work in various capacities. In January 2022, Jennifer was appointed

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Operations ManagerKaren Calhoun

Operations Manager
Karen Calhoun

Karen has been a member at Royal Oak First since 2006 and joined the staff as Operations Manager in September of 2018.  Along the way, Karen led “Parents’ Night Out” and “Career Ministry”, taught Sunday School (eventually becoming Superintendent), and

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Associate Pastor Bridget Nelson

Associate Pastor Bridget Nelson

Bridget is our Associate Pastor of Programs. Bridget Nelson works with a great team of staff and volunteers to offer a wide range of programming to the children, youth, and families at Royal Oak First. From nursery care to high school Youth Group,

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