DCE wears different hats throughout his role, all working for the Lord

By Ashley Wiehe
Director of Communications

Paul Wendt has worn many hats, as well as many titles, during his career. As a Director of Christian Education (DCE), he helps to lead the spiritual development of adults and youth alike within the congregation.

In his work at St. John Lutheran Church in Kendallville, Ind., Wendt runs the Sunday school program as well as the adult education program—not to mention, teaches confirmation, leads a mental health ministry called “Present Refuge,” runs the Vacation Bible School (VBS) program each summer, teaches beginning guitar, and coaches soccer.

For much of his work, he’s stepping in where he is needed because, as he said, he had an interest in it, and it was something the school at his church needed.

He has served as a DCE for more than 20 years at various churches and in various roles, but all in service to the Lord through teaching the faith. He said that it’s all possible because of the great team that he works with in his congregation.

“Part of DCE ministry is knowing when to lead out front and knowing when to lead from behind, where you support people that are doing the work,” he said.

Wendt has served at St. John since 2018 and that followed a long career as a DCE. For him, a mentor inspired him to enter the ministry, and he is hoping to do that for others.

“He helped me to really understand how much God loved me, and I just really wanted to be able to do that for other people,” he said. “If you’ve got somebody that’s really impacted your life for the faith, and you think, well, they’re a pastor, but I really don’t know that I’m cut out for that or I’m not cut out for the structure that a classroom teacher uses, DCE ministry may be something worth exploring. The heart of it is helping people connect to Jesus.”

Each day, he stands in front of children and adults and encourages them to grow in their study of the Bible. He even takes time to take out his guitar and lead preschoolers in song in the sanctuary. His heart for helping people is truly shown in his ministry.

“It’s not our job to change hearts—that’s the Holy Spirit’s job,” he said. “It’s our job to walk with people the way Jesus did.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT A DIRECTOR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Watch a video that Worship Anew created about church workers, especially those students wanting to be a DCE.

Visit our YouTube page at youtube.com/@worshipanewonline to find more videos about the varied roles of church workers.