Priest in Charge

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Prior to accepting this call, Fr. Daniel served as assistant priest in the recently formed Southern Dutchess Collaborative of three Episcopal parishes. There he helped build the current collaborative and worked diligently to deepen ties between the parishes as well as with the surrounding communities.

Prior to his ordination to the priesthood in January 2025, Fr. Daniel served 22 years as a band officer in the United States Army, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in August 2025. He conducted all the major Army bands and choruses, serving in Germany, Washington, D.C., Ft. Bragg, the Army School of Music, culminating his career as the commander and conductor of the West Point Band. Fr. Daniel continues work as a conductor by directing the West Point Glee Club.

Fr. Daniel’s spirituality is strongly influenced by the Franciscan tradition. He is a professed member of the Community of Francis and Clare, a world-wide Anglican Franciscan order of men and women who vow to live by the virtues of Simplicity, Fidelity, and Humility.

Fr. Daniel is married to Mr. Kevin Smith-Toven. Kevin, a civil engineer, works in water infrastructure and climate adaptation. He is passionate about ensuring that everyone has access to clean drinking water.

Fr. Daniel comes to this call with great enthusiasm for building community and serving all people. His and Kevin’s great affection for the Hudson Valley, and his deep connection to the military community and West Point, make the call to serve the Highland Falls- Fort Montgomery-West Point community in a unified way a true gift from God!​