My name is Dane, and I am the Youth Pastor overseeing youth ministry (Grades 6-12) across our campuses. I am primarily responsible for the high school youth at our Walnut Grove campus. I have been involved in ministry since 2004, particularly in youth ministry for most of those years.
My goal is to create a youth ministry that is safe and fun and allows our students to encounter the love of Jesus in a community with peers and leaders. We do this in simple ways: We create a space that makes it easy to introduce students to Jesus, apprentice them to Him, and, as we grow in this apprenticeship, share this same love with others so that they, too, can be introduced to Christ’s love for them.
My family and I moved from South Africa in 2021, so you’ll know me by my accent. I have the privilege of working with my wife (The Family Ministries Director) and have two strong boys who keep us on our toes. I also have two cats (but I am probably more of a dog person) named Mochi and Ember (I won the cat lottery with these two – thanks, Janet!).
I love spending time with friends and especially love playing board games. Those who know me know I have a rather extensive collection that I don’t have enough time to play. If you’re into them, give me a shout. I also love watching and playing sports and striking up “healthy” conversations around current affairs.
