Church Staff

At Awaken Church, our team is here to serve Jesus and support you on your faith journey. From our pastoral leadership to our children's and youth teams, each staff member brings a heart for ministry and a commitment to helping people know Christ and make Him known. Learn more about our leadership team and their heart for our church family below. 

Pastor Alex Orta

Lead Pastor

About me...

My wife Nicole and I grew up in the same Central Michigan town of Saint Johns. In November of 2000, we were married, and in the summer of 2009, we moved to Holland, Michigan, where we lived for fourteen years. During that time, we both accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior, and shortly after, I was called into ministry and began serving the local church. During that same time, I was also involved in homeless and addiction ministry and served as the Director of an addictions and discipleship program, and for three years, we led a house-based church out of our living room. We have four children and three grandchildren that keep life interesting and exciting. As a family, we enjoy hiking, camping, and enjoying the many lakes of Michigan on our kayaks and paddle boards. Beyond family time, I find rest and renewal by reading, writing, working out, and running.

Contact Pastor Alex

Payton Lupu

Youth Leader

About me...

Hi, I’m Payton! I serve as a youth leader here at Awaken Church and teach 4th grade during the week. Working with students both in the classroom and in ministry is one of my greatest joys.
Family is incredibly important to me; I'm a proud aunt to one sweet niece and six energetic nephews who keep life fun and full of laughter! In my free time, I love diving into a good book, spending quiet time in my Bible, and enjoying the simple moments in life. I’m so grateful to be part of the Awaken family and can't wait to connect with you!