Thomas Chryst Email & Phone Number

As a pastor at Messiah Lutheran Church, I have been serving congregations and communities for 25 years. Pastoring larger congregations has brought me a wide-ranging skillset, with aspects of business, teaching, project-management, strategic thinking, counseling, and a host of other skills that translate well into many contexts. Congregations are like small businesses with an eclectic mix of stakeholders and clientele, in which it is always important to do more with less. As the chief officer, the pastor is called upon to be subject matter expert and advisor, creative leader and mentor, all while exercising carefully honed soft skills which are not easily quantifiable.I have a Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Judeo-Christian Heritage from Concordia College-New York.I am also a chess instructor at Keller Chess Coaching (my own "side hustle" business), where I offer private lessons and tutoring for children and adults of all skill levels. I have been playing chess competitively for more than 20 years, and I have ranked in the top 5% of rated Texas players. I enjoy teaching chess to others, especially to young players who want to improve their strategic thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. I am also the head coach of Messiah Lutheran Classical Academy Chess Club and have coached students in New York, Wisconsin, and Texas. My mission is to help students learn the basics and etiquette of the game, as well as the advanced concepts of planning, tactics, and strategy. I also encourage them to participate in tournaments and have fun with chess.

Listed skills include Biblical Studies, Theology, Pastoral Theology, Pastoral Care, and 23 others.