Shawnee Staff

Rev. Nicholas Hopkins (M.Div.), Pastor

Rev. Nicholas Hopkins was ordained as the Pastor of Shawnee Park Christian Reformed Church in 2012, after serving as Shawnee Park’s Ministry Coordinator (2010). Before coming to Shawnee Park, Pastor Nick served as the Choir Director and a Worship Leader at Madison Square Church.  Pastor Nick earned his Bachelors in Communication from Calvin College (2007) and a Master of Divinity, focusing on Church Leadership and Pastoral Care, from Calvin Theological Seminary (2012). 

As an accomplished vocalist, Pastor Nick first began singing in church and as a member of the renown Florida Boychoir.  He has toured across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, has had the opportunity to work with globally recognized musicians and conductors, and now serves as the Director of the Shawnee Park Chorale. Pastor Nick serves as a Church Visitor for Classic Grand Rapids East of the Christian Reformed Church in North America, is the Vice President of Safe Haven Ministries' Board (an organization helping women and children find freedom from domestic violence), and volunteers with Broadway Grand Rapids. He enjoys traveling, singing, and spending time with Megan, his wife, and Cub (their samoyed). 

Mel Veldman (M.A.), Director of Disciplship

Char Bulthuis, Director of Administration

Faith Van't Land, Administrative Secretary

As Administrative Secretary, Faith works to manage and organize the everyday responsiblities in the main office while supporting staff as necessary. Faith has served in this role since 1994. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Nutrition from Central Philipine University, and moved to the United States in 1985. Faith loves to sing and has played the lead role in the musical opera “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” and is currently a member of Shawnee's Chorale and praise team. She is married to John and has four children, and enjoys spending time with family and taking care of their two granddaughters. 

Renee Rietema, Building Manager

Renee has been the Building Manager at Shawnee since 1995. As Building Manager, Renee's role is to provide management of the Shawnee Park facility to promote the best use, safety, and cleanliness of the building and grounds. Renee serves on the Building & Grounds Committee at Shawnee Park. She is earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Calvin College, and recently took a course in Criminal Justice, which she greatly enjoyed. Renee is married to Bob and they have four grown children, and four grandchildren throughout the U.S.  Renee enjoys walking and spending time with her goldendoodle, Cooper.