Originally from a rural farming community in northwest Indiana, Deb and I left Chinese Faith Baptist Church in Lake Oswego, Oregon where we pastored for almost four years.  Prior to this calling I served as Lead Pastor and Teacher of Word of Life Baptist Church in Alpena, Michigan for twelve years.  

The family farm has been a part of my life for many years but at the age of 33, Jesus called me into the pastorate.  I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Studies from Grace College (cum laude, 1997), a Master of Divinity degree from Trinity Theological Seminary, endorsed by the University of Liverpool, England (with distinction, 2008), and a Doctorate of Intercultural Studies from Grace Seminary (summa cum laude, 2014).

My faith background begins in the Hanna United Methodist Church where through faithful Sunday school teachers I came to know Jesus as my Savior.  I began to date Deb during my high school years and through her family and her church (Calvary Baptist Church of Valparaiso) began to understand my faith at a deeper level.

I married my high school sweetheart, Deb, in 1982.  We have two adult daughters who are married, and have five grandchildren.  In my leisure time, I work. (Just joking...sort of)  But I also enjoy gardening, biking, hiking, and good jigsaw puzzles.  Contact Pastor Dan at pdanlute@gmail.com