Pastor Profiles: Mike Lutz Works to Inspire Love, Trust in God at Immanuel Lutheran

Choosing to become a pastor was a bit like taking over the family business for ’s Senior Pastor Mike Lutz.

The son of a pastor in Whilliston, ND, Lutz, 65, grew up in the church, so becoming a pastor himself was somewhat of a natural progression.

“I grew up in the church and my dad is a pastor but I was unsure of my salvation, so I initially started my training thinking that God would have to accept me if I was a pastor,” he said. “Then the Lord helped me to finally realize that I would have eternal life because of what Christ had done for me instead of my good life.”

Lutz, who has now been a pastor for 39 years, said his passion for helping people has only grown with his time in the church.

In addition to his role as senior pastor, Lutz is also a husband, father of four and grandfather of five.

In an effort to expand Patch's coverage of the local faith community, Patch reached out to Lutz to talk about his job as pastor, Immanuel Lutheran’s role in the local community and his thoughts on faith at home and abroad.

Macomb Patch: From what sources do you draw inspiration for your work?

Lutz: From God's word and from the other Christians that are around me.

Macomb Patch: What do you want to accomplish in Macomb Township?

Lutz: Make a positive difference within our community for Jesus.

Macomb Patch: What do you hope your congregation takes from your leadership?

Lutz: To see the need to reach out with Christ's love to all people, especially those that they know and put that into practice.

Macomb Patch: What do you believe is the greatest problem or issue affecting our world today?

Lutz: The breakdown of the family and the lack of Christ's influence in the home.

Macomb Patch: How would you finish this sentence, "By the time I retire as a pastor, I hope to have ..."

Lutz: Helped people know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior.

Macomb Patch: What is the best advice you've ever been given?

Lutz: Always be yourself and trust that the Lord has a plan for your life.

Fast Facts about Pastor Mike:

• Favorite Bible passage is Heb. 13:5&6: The Lord has said "I will never leave you nor abandon you." Therefore, Let us be bold and say the Lord is my helper, I need not be afraid.
• Favorite Film? Indiana Jones series
• Favorite Place to Visit? Salzburg, Austria
• Favorite Band or Composer? Favorite singer: Laura Story
• Favorite Food? Barbecue chicken
• Hobbies? Making family DVDs and traveling