JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ill. -- The community of Jefferson County came together on Saturday night to honor Chaplain Dan Lovin of Logan Street Baptist Church.Â
Lovin retired on August 31 after a tenure with the church lasting over 30 years.
Representatives for Congressman Mike Bost, Senator Terri Bryant and Representative Dave Severin were all in attendance, plus members of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, County Board and Fraternal Order of Police.Â

Lovin's retirement closes out his run dedicated to the community. According to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Lovin served as chaplain for numerous law agencies around the area and worked to support crisis hotlines and a disaster relief program.Â
During his time as Chaplain, Lovin received national and international recognition. Most notably, he was presented the John A. Price Award for Excellence in Chaplaincy and the Wentik-Kauffman Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement Chaplaincy.Â
"Dan came to the profession over 30 years ago with a heart for peace officers and the love of Christ," wrote the sheriff's office. "He exhibited that love every week with every contact he made."
The community wishes Lovin and his family a peaceful retirement.Â