My name is Rev. Christine Kass, or Pastor Christy for short.

I have a Master of Divinity degree from Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem, PA, with a concentration in Spiritual Formation and a certificate in Biblical Studies. I was the recipient of the Henry Gerdsen Memorial Prize at graduation (for intellectual, personal, and professional growth, as well as a commitment to involvement in the seminary community.), and was chosen by my peers to be the commencement speaker.

While I was a student, I served for two years as the supply pastor at Pleasant Valley Presbyterian Church in Brodheadsville, Pennsylvania.

I completed my Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at Indian Creek Foundation, a sheltered workshop for adults with disabilities. CPE changed my life and my heart for the better. I still volunteer there every week because I believe in the work they do. It’s also my happy place.

I am currently the full-time solo pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Hokendauqua in Whitehall, Pennsylvania. I was ordained and installed on June 23, 2019. Among my achievements during my two years at this church:

• I have started four successful small groups: A discussion group on social justice; a C.S. Lewis study group; an arts and crafts fellowship group; and a body prayer group.
• Thirteen new members have joined, and 3 former members have been reinstated.
• I am currently working with the Christian Education staff on a new rotational Sunday School program designed to reach out to families with young children in the surrounding community.
• Our congregation exceeded our giving budget nearly every month during the pandemic, while the church building was closed.
• I conceived and, with the help of the Membership Committee, implemented a “virtual members” program in which people who regularly began to join us for worship during the pandemic will be recognized as honorary members of our congregation.
• Our church growth and generous giving enabled us to repair and repaint the church exterior, restore the bell in the steeple to working order, and plant a new memorial garden in front of the building. We also installed an electric chairlift to help those who need it easily access our second-floor sanctuary, and a new sound system in the sanctuary.

Before starting seminary, I was a longtime newspaper journalist. When I answered the call to enter the ministry, I left my old life behind without so much as a backward glance. But I have noticed that the skills I acquired in my 20-plus year career as a reporter help me in my sermon preparation and my interaction with the people I meet.

Above all, I know I am where I’m meant to be at this point in my life. I am passionate about the Gospel of Jesus and am devoted to helping others rediscover what it means to be a disciple in today’s world. We are the hands and feet of Christ on earth now, and more than ever we have to take to heart his commandment that we love God and love one another.