Join the Journey Through The Ordinary Sacred with Daniel Surya

Father - Husband - Pastor/Minister

Hello readers!

Since you’ve found your way here, I think it’s only fair to properly introduce myself. My name is Daniel Surya, and I’ve been on a journey of faith, family, and ministry that has taken me across continents, shaped who I am, and continues to enrich my life every day.

I’m originally from Indonesia, but my path led me to Canada after I received the Lai-Huang Bursary to study at the Vancouver School of Theology from 2019 to 2022. Before this journey, I served as a chaplain at an international Christian school in Jakarta, walking alongside students and staff as they explored their faith. Those years deepened my understanding of ministry in multicultural contexts, which has shaped how I approach my work today.

In 2022, I was ordained and inducted into the Presbyterian Church in Canada, and I now serve as the Minister of Word and Sacraments at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Lethbridge, Alberta. It’s been an incredible adventure, and if you’ve ever stood on the prairies under the wide-open sky, you’ll understand why this land feels sacred to me.

Beyond the pulpit, I’m a husband and a proud father to my son Ben, who fills our home with curiosity and laughter. Together, as a family, we’re navigating life’s journey, leaning on God’s grace through every twist and turn.

As a pastor, I find great joy in preaching, teaching, and walking alongside people through the highs and lows of life. I also share weekly sermons on my YouTube channel, offering messages of hope and reflection for anyone who needs a word of encouragement. I believe that faith isn’t just for Sunday mornings—it’s woven into the ordinary rhythms of life, the quiet conversations, and even the moments we’d rather forget.

You’ll see this reflected in my writing here. I love exploring the sacred in the ordinary, inspired by the idea that God doesn’t only meet us in grand, life-altering moments but in the small, simple ones, too. I’m drawn to the writings of Frederick Buechner, who beautifully reminds us that all moments are key moments because God is present in them.

When I’m not writing or pastoring, you’ll likely find me walking along the prairies, reading a good book, or sharing a story with my family over a meal. Life is busy, yes, but it’s also full of grace.

I hope this space becomes a place where we can journey together, reflect on life, and remind each other that God is always present—especially when we least expect it.

Thanks for taking the time to get to know me a little better. I’d love to hear about you, too, so feel free to reach out anytime.

With gratitude,
Daniel Surya