Contact & Staff

Rev. Christiane Depestre, affectionately known as Pastor Chris, serves as the pastor of Lakeside Community Chapel with deep gratitude for God’s call and a love for walking alongside people in all seasons of life. Her preaching is rooted in Scripture, shaped by grace, and attentive to everyday realities – offering encouragement, hope, and honest faith for the journey. She is especially passionate about pastoral care and counseling, believing that listening well and showing up faithfully are holy work, and is equally committed to nurturing authentic relationships, meaningful worship, and a church that lives out Christ’s love through compassion, justice, and care for the community.

Pastor Chris received her theological training at Drew University, where she earned a Master of Divinity, and brings many years of pastoral experience in congregational and community settings.
She is married to her husband, Harry, and together they cherish their blended family. Pastor Chris has two adult sons, and Harry has two adult daughters. Their family includes three grandsons, one granddaughter, and the joyful anticipation of another grandchild on the way. She is deeply grateful for family, faith, and shared life together.

In her free time, Pastor Chris enjoys singing, reading, cooking and baking, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends when possible.



Pastor Chris received her theological training at Drew University, where she earned a Master of Divinity, and brings many years of pastoral experience in congregational and community settings.
She is married to her husband, Harry, and together they cherish their blended family. Pastor Chris has two adult sons, and Harry has two adult daughters. Their family includes three grandsons, one granddaughter, and the joyful anticipation of another grandchild on the way. She is deeply grateful for family, faith, and shared life together.

In her free time, Pastor Chris enjoys singing, reading, cooking and baking, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends when possible.

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Office: (406) 844-3043

Other Lakeside Community Chapel Contacts:

• The Gathering Place or Chapel Reservations: original sanctuary and a newer sanctuary; both are available for weddings and funerals. Please contact Mike Rasmussen • (406) 857-3767 or mikerita6@gmail.com for more information and reservations.

• General Information and Announcements: lakesideccumc@gmail.com

• Administrative Board Chair: Susanne Vining Atkinson

• Lay Leader: Mary Pat Murphy • (406) 270-0151

• Assistant Lay Leader: Trina Stivers • (406) 212-6602

If you or someone you know is in need of a meal, please reach out. We are here to help and support our neighbors with care and compassion.