LEADERSHIP
Kurtis and his wife, Natalia, became the Lead Pastor at Open Bible Church in August 2022. They feel humbled and grateful that God chose them to serve in this capacity. Iowa Falls, a community they deeply love and cherish, has become the place where they are raising their two daughters. Both Kurtis and Natalia’s roots run deep in southeast Iowa as Ottumwa natives.
Outside of church, Kurtis can often be found riding his bike or watching the St. Louis Cardinals. He identifies not just as a “sports fan,” but specifically as a “baseball fan.” His aspirations and hard work to play professional baseball halted when, at 18, he felt God’s call into ministry and to leave the game of baseball behind. Kurtis pursued his education at Evangel University and Harvest Bible College, earning a degree in Pastoral and Biblical Studies. Prior to pastoring in Iowa Falls, he served as a Youth Pastor in Des Moines. His favorite books of the Bible include the Minor Prophets and the book of Romans. A life motto Kurtis lives by is, “My life for the Gospel!”
Natalia, when not in the church, is busy chasing their two toddlers, Gabriella and Emma. Like Kurtis, Natalia hails from Ottumwa, and the couple met at a special service held at her church, where they instantly connected. Natalia loves coffee and is always eager to share a cup with anyone. Called into ministry before she met Kurtis, Natalia attended Liberty University, where she earned a degree in Political Science, and later completed a Biblical Studies degree at Harvest Bible College. Her favorite parts of the Bible are often the letters written by Paul or the Old Testament history books.
Their ultimate desire is not to elevate Open Bible Church or themselves, but to make Jesus known and exalted above all.
Tyler & Annie Hoelscher
Worship Pastor & High School Pastor
Tyler and Annie have been serving in ministry together for several years and are passionate about leading others closer to Christ. Tyler, who enjoys backpacking and camping in the Boundary Waters of Minnesota, has been serving the Lord through music since deciding to follow Jesus at the age of 14. He serves as our Worship Pastor. His favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 3:5-6 - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do and he will show you which path to take.”
Annie, a dedicated long-distance runner and avid reader, became born again at the age of 23 after attending a life-changing Bible study. The seed of the Gospel took root in her soul and she fully surrendered to the One who died to save her. Her favorite verse, Matthew 28:20 - “… I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Annie faithfully serves the Lord as our High School Pastor.
Together since 2012, Tyler and Annie are the proud parents of four beautiful children. Annie homeschools, while Tyler serves as a principal at a Christian school. They cherish spending time with their family and enjoy date nights whenever they can.
Their journey with God continues to inspire their service and commitment to the church and its community.
Adam & Jessica Jackson
Church Secretary, Middle School Pastor & Board Member
Jessica has faithfully served as the church secretary for ten years, while also leading as the Middle School Youth Pastor for twelve years. Both she and her husband, Adam, have deep roots in the Iowa Falls community, where they are raising their three children. Jessica’s journey with Christ began at the age of four, and her passion for ministry has only grown since. When not at the church, Jessica is often found in the kitchen baking delicious desserts or enjoying a movie with her family. She also has a talent for face painting! Her life verse is 1 Peter 3:15: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Jessica is a graduate of Inste Bible College and is a licensed pastor.
Adam, known for always be positive and smiling, loves spending time with his family, often taking trips in their camper. He co-owns “Precision Manure Application,” a business he runs with his brother, helping farmers manage their crops. Adam is serves as a member of the church governance board. When Adam isn’t working or spending time at church, you might find him on the golf course, honing his skills as an avid golfer. A lesser-known fact about Adam is that he is a coin collector. He has a love for the Bible, and the book of Proverbs holds a special place in his heart.
Above all, Adam and Jessica are faithful stewards who are passionate about following Jesus Christ and the local church.
