Steve Hartog
Expanded Biography

Steve and Valerie Hartog consider themselves Floridians! Although Steve moved here from Chicago as a child and Valerie grew up as an MK in Brazil, they have spent more years than not barefoot on the beach and like it that way! Steve grew up playing the keyboard, trumpet, drums and guitar, and singing with his 7 siblings, and found his most rewarding performances were not designed for human audiences, but for his Audience of One. After 17 years in local music ministry, God called Steve and Valerie to join their love for music, praise and worship with Countryside Baptist Church. Steve loves God and desires nothing more than to train and encourage the people of God to worship Him with their whole lives – not just on Sunday morning during music time. He loves a service rich in tradition and diverse in style that points the Church to God and brings glory only to Him.

Steve and Valerie have been given three precious gifts in the form of children: Joshua, Jonathan and Jessika. Valerie home schools but might be found involved in any ministry that includes her children or music

Why Countryside Baptist Church?

We felt an instant connection with a Staff that is genuinely excited to lift up the name of Jesus and join God where He is working! And then we found that excitement matched by the love and support that flows from the CBC Congregation into the community God has developed around them! I love this Church because I am constantly being challenged to grow deeper in Christ. I also enjoy the unity and the great fellowship within this church! I look forward to serving alongside God’s people at Countryside Baptist Church.

Activities/Interests/Hobbies:
Making my own music arrangements! Tinkering with computers and getting sympathy from my wife when it inevitably leads to scraped up hands and bloody fingers! Taking the kids out on the jet ski! Good health and working out!

Books that I’m Reading:

Worship, Dr. David Jeremiah
The Purpose Driven Church, Rick Warren
Developing the Leader within You, John C. Maxwell

Cool things:

A Well-rounded, Worship-minded Prayer Warrior

CLICK HERE for a special note from Steve on Worship.