We elect and ordain qualified Ministers of the Word and Sacraments to serve as our primary preaching and teaching officers. They do not, however, possess greater executive authority than other elders in our church. Rather, our congregation is governed pastorally by a board of nine local elders who are assisted by seven deacons. To serve in church office, men must first meet the biblical requirements and be elected by the congregation. We have transparent, accountable financial policies and report regularly to the church.

Learn more about the roles, responsibilities, and requirements of elders and deacons.

Rev. Michael Spotts

senior Minister of Word & Sacraments

Michael was drawn to Christ at age ten after hearing the gospel on Christian radio. As a teenager he sensed a call to ministry and pursued theological training, later serving for a time as a foreign missionary. But his convictions were shaped decisively in his early twenties, when he encountered Reformed theology and began attending Oceanside URC under the care of pastors Dr. Danny Hyde and Dr. R. Scott Clark. He earned his M.Div. from Westminster Seminary California in 2016.

Michael interned at Phoenix United Reformed Church for 15 months before they called him as Associate Minister in 2017 and as Senior Minister in 2021. He also serves the federation as a member of the Pastoral Care Committee for Classes Southwest US. Michael and his wife married in 2013 and have three children. His other interests include backpacking, astronomy, and woodworking.

Rev. Chris Smith

Associate Minister of Word & Sacraments

Chris comes from a broadly Evangelical background. He transitioned into Reformed churches in his early twenties before attending seminary. In 2022, he received dual Master of Divinity and Master of Arts degrees from Westminster Seminary California. His undergraduate degree is in History. He is married and has a soft spot for Nebraska football.