leadership team

Wayne Kent

Executive Director

Wayne Kent is the Executive Director of DHF as well as Lead Pastor of First Christian Church in Decatur, Illinois. Wayne and his wife, Leslie, have served the Decatur congregation for more than 25 years. They met at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma and pastored a church there prior to moving to Decatur. Wayne and Leslie have toured the world as musicians as part of a professional Christian band called “Living Sound.” Wayne, a native Aussie, immigrated to British Columbia at the age of 11 with his family. Wayne earned his doctorate from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. The Kents have two children who are married and have given them twin grandsons and two granddaughters. Wayne enjoys jazz and sailing Lake Decatur with Leslie.

Rick Grace

church liaison

Rick and his wife, Nancy, have served in pastoral ministry for over 45 years. They have served churches in Illinois, Kansas, and Arkansas, in a variety of roles, from Youth Pastor to solo Pastor to Lead Pastor. They have also been involved in marriage ministry for over 25 years. Rick earned his doctorate from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary. The Graces have two adult children and six grandchildren. They enjoy hiking, zip lining, and finding obscure places to enjoy as they travel.

Lori Putnam

dhf coordinator

Lori has served on staff of First Christian Church in Decatur, Illinois for more than 15 years. She is a graduate of Indiana State University, Southern Illinois University as well as Lincoln Christian University. She lives with her husband Mark, a CrossFit box owner, and their son, Wade, in Mt. Zion. They enjoy watching Wade play the sport of the season, movies, and finding new restaurants.