Lead Pastor Downers Grove Church

I believe in the basics of an Acts 2 model of church that is focused on the Gospel of Jesus Christ, reaching the lost and making disciples.

I love missions and believe it is the greatest priority of the believer and the church to go into the world, sharing the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I have had the joy of leading several local and international mission trips, all of which greatly impacted my walk with Jesus. I look forward to the missional opportunities that come to First Baptist Church of Downers Grove as we go on mission together.

Dakota and I are excited to be part of the Downers Grove community and of all that God will do in and through the local church!

In Christ,

Pastor Jarret

- Pastor Jarret and Dakota met in 2014 and are passionate individuals who have dedicated their marriage to ministry and spreading the Gospel message of Jesus.

- In 2020, they began Apartment Life, a program that connects residents with each other and the greater community; offering love, meeting practical needs, and sharing the Gospel.

- They both love traveling, being in nature, and outdoor activities like waterskiing, snow-skiing, and visiting National Parks.

- They are motivated by the desire to see Jesus increase in people’s lives, whether it’s seeing someone take one step closer to Jesus, or seeing someone discover their gifting to serve greater in the body of Christ.

The First Baptist Church Pastoral Search Committee hired NL Moore & Associates to conduct a search for its next Lead Pastor.

In June 2023, NL Moore conducted a congregational survey and focus groups to gain greater understanding of the church body and its culture.

600 applications were narrowed down to four applicants. In November 2023, four highly-aligned candidates were presented to the Pastoral Search Committee.

In December 2023, the Search Committee conducted interviews and then invited two applicants for weekend visits to FBC.

The Search Committee voted for Jarret Garber to be presented to the Deacon Board. In February 2024, the Deacon Board invited Jarret to candidate at First Baptist Church and be presented to the congregation.