Check Out Dale Pierce’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dale Pierce. 

Hi Dale, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My wife and I graduated from college in the early 90’s and jumped right into ministry and teaching. I was a youth pastor and worship pastor, and Jen taught at private schools. During our first place in SW Wisconsin, we had our three children. We then moved to Northern Indiana, to the Twin Cities, and then to the Lake Country area in WI as we continued to pursue and do the ministry to people with music to which God had called us. Then, in 2010, we began to sense God wanting to us move from these suburban areas to a more rural context. We began the journey, the kids were on board, and we ended by moving to Crook, CO in the summer of 2011. It has been a great place to love God and love people. We have grown personally, and our family is still connected and strong. This journey has been a joy. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Although it’s been a joy-filled journey, it definitely has had its struggles! Spiritual/emotional burnout, depression, and uncertainty have been a part of my life, especially before we reached the Lake Country. Depression still rears its ugly head in my life from time to time…Moving so many times was a challenge as well, though it ended up strengthening us as a family. 

Other challenges included working for poor leaders, having wrong perspectives personally, and not serving my family well. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am currently lead pastor for a rural church in Crook, CO. I enjoy being with people, hearing their stories and journey, and supporting/encouraging them through the ups and the downs. An example of the ‘downs’: I have performed over 75 funerals in the last 10 years since moving to NE Colorado. However, these allow me to enter into people’s lives at some of their most hurting and sorrowful moments and bring hope and strength. An example of the ‘ups’: I’ve done 25+ weddings – and being invited to other positive moments of families’ lives allows laughter and relationship to lead the way. I love my “job”. 

What sets me apart? I love my job! The privilege of helping people through their ups and downs, as well as building relationships in a small community, being present (a “ministry of presence”) is powerful and important, and I enjoy the aspects (both difficult and fun) that come with it. 

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Through communication, conversation, and connections. These things help in supporting what I do. I gather with pastors in several different groups several times a month for encouragement and insight and prayer, and this all helps with strength and perspective in moving forward. 

Contact Info:

• Email: dale@crookedpastor.com
• Website: crookedpastor.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeepmanpierce
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbVWXoMqs9cssjztlcx0C7g