December 17

Daniel Wheeler’s journey into ministry began in a Christian home, but it was in 2015 that he felt a profound call to preach. With deep respect for that calling, Daniel immersed himself in theological study—exploring a range of views, including those of scholars like Dr. Bart Ehrman and Dr. Gary Habermas. His quest for truth led him through doubt and even away from the faith for a season.

“I believed in objective truth,” Daniel said. “So I searched other religions, studied their holy books, and practiced their faiths.”

This emotionally exhausting journey eventually brought Daniel back to Christ Jesus, through both personal revelation and compelling Christian apologetics. Recommitting his life to God, he continued to grow spiritually and academically.

In 2021, Daniel became a student at Christian Leaders Institute. He found CLI’s academic integrity and recognition of prior learning to be a perfect fit for his next steps. He was officially ordained as a minister through Christian Leaders Alliance on January 12, 2025.

“I’m grateful for CLI. Their standards allowed me to test out of some courses and really focus on areas where I needed to grow,” he shared.

Today, Daniel continues his education at Liberty University through CLI’s partnership, working toward a Bachelor of Science in Religion. With over 10 years of ministry experience, he has served as a volunteer chaplain, evangelist, wedding and funeral officiant, and apologist.

“One of the most powerful moments in ministry was officiating my mother’s wedding,” Daniel recalls. “More recently, I also presided over a funeral for a close friend. It was deeply humbling.”

He has also completed his first book on Christian apologetics and hopes to publish it soon to help others face their own faith challenges.

Daniel’s story illustrates the power of becoming an Evangelist: Faith Officiant—a clergy-recognized minister equipped to share the gospel boldly and compassionately. His journey encourages others to explore the Faith Officiant path and confidently step into the ministry roles God has prepared for them.

“Let us walk together toward the light and love of Jesus Christ!”