Rev. Daniel L. Fields
Meet Our Pastor
Rev. Daniel L. Fields, raised in Staten Island and later Old Bridge, NJ, found his calling in faith through the vibrant community of Messiah Lutheran Church. With a background in education and a passion for leadership, he embraces the richness of religious diversity and is dedicated to serving others in his ministry.
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Story
Early Life
NY + NJ
Pastor Daniel Fields was born to Larry & Sandra Fields and raised in Staten Island, NY with his brother, Michael, until his family moved to Old Bridge, NJ in his seventh grade year. It was in this new community that Daniel, born of an ELCA Lutheran mother and Jewish father, discovered his relationship with Jesus after finding curiosity and excitement in the happenings of his home congregation, Messiah in Parlin, NJ. Daniel grew up celebrating the richness of religious diversity, and, in his teenage years at Messiah, was baptized, received first Holy Communion, and was Confirmed.
Education
MCC + Kean
Daniel received an A.A.S. degree as an Education Practitioner from Middlesex County College, a B.S. in Mathematical Sciences from Kean University, and a certificate in Teacher of Students with Disabilities from Rowan University. Throughout his college years, with seeds planted by God, Daniel began to find a desire for leadership and serving others.
Experience
At age 18, in his freshman year of college, he became an Assistant Store Manager for Dollar Tree, growing into his passion of service and developing a voice to aid in guiding and supporting his colleagues. At Messiah, Daniel served as a Sunday School teacher, worship leader, lay preacher, on congregational committees, as the Financial Secretary and the Congregational Council President. He is also an elected member of the NJ Synod Council.
Daytime
Life
In his daytime life, Daniel is a sixth grade mathematics teacher at Monroe Township Middle School where he also serves as the co-advisor of the Kiwanis sponsored Builders Club, an organization that shapes the service leadership skills of middle school students. He was awarded Teacher of the Year for the 2022-2023 school year. In addition, he is an active member of and advocate for his local, county, state, and national labor unions.
Seminary
Journey
After years of wrestling with discernment and listening to God’s call, Daniel began his seminary journey in the fall of 2019. He graduated from United Lutheran Seminary with Academic Honors, a Concentration in Town & Country Ministry, and a certificate in Congregational Faith Formation in the spring of 2024. He gives thanks to God for the support of his family and friends, the relationships he has made in seminary, his internship mentors, and the faith communities of Parlin, Perth Amboy, and Edison that have helped in shaping who God has called him to be.
Now
Daniel was called to serve as Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Perth Amboy, NJ on August 1, 2024. He feels especially called to the mission of evangelism, fellowship, and pastoral care and believes wholeheartedly that “all are welcome”!