I am (Pastor) Kristen

On Sunday afternoon I will ring a bell, be let in through the security gate, sign in, put on the required name tag and be escorted to the gym for my allotted hour. The generic name tag simply says "Clergy" but as the residents at the felony DUI incarceration and treatment center file in, I introduce myself simply as "Kristen". Leading the worship service at the facility once a month … [Read more...]

God on my Doorstep

God showed up on my doorstep early Sunday night. He stood outside the door for quite awhile, unsure whether to come in, or just run away. God had stringy, sweaty blond hair that surrounded her dirty, chubby, cherubic face. Tears rolled down her face, sobs convulsed through her body. "Hi there sweetie," I said, looking around for an adult who was accompanying this beautiful … [Read more...]

A look back at 2010

  With 2011 suddenly upon us, I want to take a moment to pause and look back at 2010.  It's been an extremely momentous and special year in the life of our family.  As John and I were discussing the coming year, and the fact that for both of us, it is our last year in our 30s, he said, "But I feel like we're just starting to really live."  Well said indeed.  So, here's a glance back … [Read more...]

What’s going on over there?

Note:  This column will be published in the Glendive Ranger Review on Sunday, November 14th.  Although it was written to a local audience in Glendive, Montana where I live and serve, it also serves as a good introductory piece for this blog and to myself. When was the last time you got stuck in a traffic jam? It probably wasn't here in Glendive unless you count having to wait for … [Read more...]