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Instruct one another—Romans 15:14
Instruct one another—Romans 15:14
Love one another like Jesus—John 13:34
Love one another like Jesus—John 13:34
Wash one another's feet—John 13:14
Wash one another's feet—John 13:14

Steve Van Denend

Lead Pastor

In 2000, Steve married Toni—the love of his life, his greatest blessing and college sweetheart.  As a couple, Steve and Toni love people, movies and traveling, and find their greatest joy in raising their 5 children: Olivia, Mason, Noelle, and twins Judah & Madelynn. But that’s not all—they added a dog named Cooper in 2020!

Steve is currently a lead pastor of The Edge Church and one of its original founders. His heart and passion is to help others discover and fulfill their purpose, communicate the truth of Jesus relevantly and unapologetically, and to see the church fulfill its mission of making disciples who live for Jesus, love one another and tell the world about Him with words and deeds. Steve also has a passion for unity in the Church at large, which compels him to regularly connect with other church leaders, build relationships and develop opportunities for church communities to come together in the worship and service of God.

In his role, Steve casts and implements vision, teaches God’s Word, provides counsel, and oversees Edge Church ministries and leaders. He is a firm believer in “team leadership” and is convinced that every part of the body is essential. 

Before starting The Edge, Steve worked for six years as a social worker and counselor serving individuals and families in the Chicagoland area. Since committing his life to following Jesus, Steve has been involved in a variety of ministry roles, including: small groups, worship/music, youth ministry, young-adult ministry, mission trips (locally, nationally and internationally) and speaking/teaching.   

Steve has a B.S. in Social Work from Illinois State University (1999) and his M.S.W. (Mental Health) from the University of Illinois-Chicago (2003).  Steve received his ministerial ordination from Fountain of Life Church in Lombard, IL in 2007.  

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