Meet: Pastor Harlan Steffen

PEEPS | those who Serve

Nominated by our readership, Meet: Pastor Harlan Steffen

by Mary Hursh | photos provided

At one time, Harlan Steffen had a calling card that read, “The light of God surrounds me. The love of God enfolds me. The power of God protects me. The presence of God watches over me. Wherever I am, God is.” That card still rings true as he continues his ministry of service in his 88th year.

Even before Harlan graduated from Eastern Mennonite High School in 1952, he had served as a summer Bible school teacher. Then, after his graduation from Eastern Mennonite College in 1958 and the Goshen Biblical Seminary in 1965, he began his official pastoral duties at Wawasee Lakeside Chapel in Syracuse. This season, LAKElife Magazine is celebrating those who give of themselves to better our community— those who, day by day, make the world a better place.

Pastor Harlan Steffen

When did you become a Christian?

I was baptized at the age of 9 at an evangelical revival meeting even though our Mennonite church did not believe in baptizing children. Mom and Dad were very happy with my decision.

How did working at Laurelville Church Camp in Mt. Pleasant, PA., influence you?

I was a counselor and loved working with young folks. Many made spiritual commitments to Jesus. I would write to their parents about their commitments.

When you were a college student, how did you serve people?

I was a member of a Christian organization in college. We often went to nursing homes for special services. I pastored at small country churches in West Virginia, and even taught a Sunday school class. I had a feeling then that I would be a minister.

How did your Boat-in ministry at Oakwood Resort begin?

Boat-in began at Waco Beach from a coffee house program for youth. Our ministerial alliance moved the program to Oakwood where we now serve over 1,000 people per Sunday. We broadcast our sermons from the S.S. Lillypad to those sitting on the lawn at Oakwood and those relaxing in their boats on the lake. Donations go to those in need and the ministry of the Syracuse-Wawasee Ministerial Alliance.

What has been your best moment of service?

So much of what I do is outside the church. I work with drug and alcohol dependent people as well as those in prison. I just did a funeral for a man who has struggled throughout many years with drugs.

Did your parents influence your life of service?

My dad was willing to help anyone. He left our farms once to help roof a church in Cleveland. I grew up knowing I would help anyone with a need.

What does it take to be a minister?

You must have a calling from God and a commitment to people. I knew in college that I wanted to be involved in Christian service.

How has your Rose Home ministry helped the community?

The program’s objective is to transform the lives of women held captive by drug and alcohol addiction by providing a safe Christian residential community to equip them to live sober and productive lives.

What ministry are you working with now?

For the past two months, I have been meeting with two recovering alcoholics at my office on Sunday afternoon. I emphasize to them that they must go to meetings, and they must be accountable. The office setting is non-threatening. I share passages from the Book of James, and we pray and say the Lord’s Prayer at the end of our session to get ready to start a new week.

How would you define service?

Service is doing things for people. I often drive people to appointments and help them with simple daily tasks.

How can someone be of service in our community?

Keep your eyes open to the needs around you. Visit the elderly. Volunteer at the Compass Thrift Store, Miller’s Merry Manor, or the Rose Home. People have so much need.

Do you know a community steward who we should learn more about? Great! Email us at sue@lakelifemagazine.com.