Living Hope Lutheran Church

Pastor Duke Backhaus

Duke Backhaus received thorough training on his way to becoming a pastor. After graduating from Luther Preparatory School in Watertown, WI in 2016, Duke earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical languages (Greek and Hebrew) from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN in 2020, and this past May, he received his Master of Divinity from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, WI in May 0f 2024.

Included in his seminary training was a 1-year internship at Zion Lutheran Church in Denver, CO. At Zion, Duke was teaching just about every day, whether it was Catechism at the Lutheran elementary school, Bible Study with the over 45 adults who attended Bible Class in between services on a weekly basis, Bible information classes with brand new Christians, or in small group studies at local breakfast restaurants with seasoned members of the congregation. Teaching became one of his biggest passions. Duke's prayer is that this passion for teaching and preaching God's Word will benefit each of you, and those in our community who hope to learn more about their Savior who loves them.

Since moving to Peoria in July, there are so many things that Pastor Backhaus and his wife, Livia, love doing in their new home town. On an average day, you might find Pastor Backhaus working in his office, playing pickleball, fishing, visiting a local coffee shop, or going to the farmer's martket!
There's so much to love about Peoria, but what Pastor loves most of all, is spending time with God's people here at Living Hope. Duke looks forward to serving the congregation and the community of Peoria with God's never-changing Word.

President- Darrell Durig

Darrell moved to Peoria in 1989 and worked at Caterpillar for 30 years as an engineer. His hobbies include flying, hunting, and fishing. He has been a member at Living Hope since its inception and appreciates it as a place for fellowship and as a place to consistently hear a biblically based message.

Treasurer

Elder

Church Secretary- Eric Markhardt

Eric (front, center) was raised in Black River Falls, WI and moved to Springfield, IL to work as an engineer with the State of Illinois. In his free time he’s playing video games or catching up on his favorite shows. It’s a good weekend when he gets out disc golfing or camping, and it’s a great weekend when he spends it with his fellow redeemed at Living Hope. He’s used to the drive by now but is always down to carpool to church.

Financial Secretary- Robert Caylor

Robert Caylor moved to Peoria in 2010 from Muncie, IN to start an engineering career with Caterpillar. Robert enjoys woodworking and spending time with his wife and two children.