Welcome from Pastor Kristin: A New Season at Life of Life

Hello Lord of Life community!

My name is Pastor Kristin Vander Ploeg, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as

your interim pastor. As I begin this season with you, I’m looking forward to getting to

know you and walking together in faith.

I have served as a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America for over 15

years, including both congregational ministry and chaplaincy in the U.S. Air Force. I

recently retired from the Air Force Reserve, and I have now felt God calling me into

transitional ministry with congregations. It’s an honor to join you, and I look forward to

working with you during this important and exciting time for Lord of Life Church.

Transition has shaped much of my life and ministry, having lived and served in many

states across the country and overseas. I trust God’s presence is especially strong in

times of transition, and I look forward to journeying with you during this season of

change in the life of your congregation as well. I’m excited to listen, learn, and explore

with you how God is leading you into the future.

I look forward to meeting you in the weeks ahead and beginning this journey together.

Blessings,

Pastor Kristin

Messages for January 2026

• January 4, 2026 - (Matthew 3:1-12) At the heart of our Advent preparation stands John the Baptist, who calls us to repent and make a new beginning.
  

• January 11, 2026 – (Matthew 3:13-17) Before Jesus begins his ministry, he is baptized by John, touched by the Spirit, and identified publicly as God’s child.
  

• January 18, 2026 – (John 1:29-42) John the Baptist’s witness to Jesus initiates a chain of testimony as his disciples begin to share with others what they have found.
  

• January 25, 2026 – (Matthew 4:12-23) Jesus begins his public ministry shortly after John the Baptist is imprisoned by Herod. He proclaims the nearness of God’s reign and calls four fishermen to be his first disciples.