Pastor Chris Matson

05/30/2026

Synod - some assembly required. Here are a few pics from the South Dakota Synod Assembly!

05/29/2026

05/25/2026

Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to this country.

Originally known as “Decoration Day,” this observance began in the years following the American Civil War, when communities across the nation gathered to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. What started as a local act of remembrance became a national day of reflection — formally recognized as Memorial Day in 1971.

But beyond its history, Memorial Day is a living reminder.

It calls us to remember not only the sacrifice, but the humanity behind it — the lives, the families, the stories, and the futures that were given in the name of freedom.

As Maya Angelou so powerfully reminded us, “How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes.”

In honoring those who have fallen, we are also called to live with intention — to build a world rooted in dignity, compassion, and unity.

Because remembrance is not passive. It is something we carry forward.

🇺🇸 Today, we remember. Always, we honor.

05/10/2026

This day is so important for reasons I didn't know until today. History is important!

04/22/2026

I'm thrilled to be back with our Nicaraguan siblings in Christ 🇳🇮

04/10/2026

Amen!

Biblical Salvation is wholeness, well-being, healing, and liberation. And real salvation involves real social justice. Authentic Christianity is inherently political. ~ Roger Wolsey Author, Kissing Fish; and Discovering Fire

03/16/2026

It's an honor to be asked to join the discussion. I deeply respect each of these women. Come if you can.

02/14/2026

AN ANNOUNCEMENT & A GIFT!

Hey friends, it is truly remarkable to write devotions with the most amazing group of faith leaders doing God’s work in profound ways, with folks on the margins who are struggling with poverty, homelessness and justice issues. These are my people, and the ones who get what it is to be Church on the Street because they live and serve in creative and redemptive ways, saving lives and living the love of Jesus. For Lent this year, we created a devotional for you with stories, prayers, and opportunities to reflect with thoughtful questions. This is available as a free online gift for you. You might recognize a few of these leaders, Deacon Mara Stillson and Dra AndJordan Hayes have contributions included!

01/11/2026

During worship today, we prayed and lit candles:

Dear Creator God,
We bring before You the life of Renee Nicole Good, whose death in a shooting involving an ICE agent in Minneapolis has shocked and shaken us. We lament her loss of life and hold her family, friends, and community in our hearts.
Lord of mercy, You know the depths of sorrow and confusion that weigh on our spirits. Be near to those who mourn, all who mourn. Comfort the broken-hearted with Your presence, and grant Your peace where fear and grief feel too heavy to bear.
Help us, Your people, to see every person through Your eyes. May we be agents of Your peace and truth in the midst of this pain.
Strengthen us to walk in the way of Christ: to weep with those who weep, to seek justice and care for the vulnerable, to listen, see, and name the pain, worry, and suffering of Your people. May this pain change us and mold us into who You want us to be and how You want us to live, and may we bear one another’s burdens with patience and love in this broken world.
May Your Spirit lead us in healing words and deeds and in steadfast hope, even in times of heartache like this.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

*This prayer was written by Pastor Rebel

01/09/2026

I amended the poem:
First they came for the Communists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Communist
Then they came for the Socialists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Socialist
Then they came for the trade unionists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a trade unionist
Then they came for the Jews
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Jew
Then they came for a white woman driving a Honda Pilot, just like me!!!
*Photo of us from my Pilot to grab attention. HEY ICE, don't murder people!