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   

Favorite verse: Psalm 9:9-10, "The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.  Those who know Your name will trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you."

I grew up in Schenectady, NY where I graduated from Guilderland High School.  I then attended Eastern College in St. Davids, Pennsylvania where I received a BA in Youth Ministry.  Following college, I attended Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (Now Palmer Seminary) where I received a Masters of Divinity.

I married Sara and have a wonderful son Peter and a beautiful daughter Sianna.  I come from a family of nine with five sisters and one brother. 

I also serve as the Junior High Head Cross Country and Track and Field Coach at Tulpehocken Junior Senior High School.  This is a great way for me to meet youth in the community and get some healthy running in besides.

In my spare time I enjoy running, reading, and spending time with my family and friends.  I also like a good double chocolate cheesecake whenever anyone will make me one.  I am a big fan of Star Wars, but firmly believe that the Power of the Holy Spirit is better than the force any day (after all the Holy Spirit is real and the force is just fantasy.)  Contact Pastor Joel at styouthminister@verizon.net.