Brother Van (Rev. Brad Ulgenes) pauses for a picture after coming forward in time!
Throughout the Fall we have taken an exciting trip through time in chapel. Chaplain Chris, with the help of his friend “Dr. Brown,” created a time machine that we used to bring back a number of Bible heroes as well as a very special guest–Brother Van himself!
Brother Van has always loved singing for and with the children!
Pastor Brad Ulgenes of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Helena came to chapel recently to reprise a role that he perfected during appearances made during Bannack Days.
Needless to say, Brother Van was quite impressed with the work Intermountain continues to do, and we detected no small measure of pride in the fact that the work he and Louise Stork began in 1909 was still going strong, helping the children find healing and hope through healthier relationships.
Brother Van sang songs with the children, just as he did in Intermountain’s early years, and told a number of stories from his time as a circuit rider and Methodist missionary throughout Montana. The children were able to ask him questions and learn more about what led Brother Van into the ministry and why he was so passionate about caring for children. After another rousing song–this time a spirited chorus of “Jesus Loves Me, This I Know”–Brother Van had to be sent back in time. Much like was the case in Intermountain’s early years, the children begged Brother Van to stay.
“Sorry children,” Brother Van said, “I must go back to continue the work of planting churches, working with the Deaconesses, and making sure that the work of the church continues to grow in Montana. It looks like you are in good hands here with Chaplain Chris and the many wonderful staff you have. Goodbye and God bless you!” And, with that parting word, Brother Van left the room to find the “time portal” he had come forward in!
Dr. Brown’s amazing time machine
Other guests throughout the Fall included Queen Esther, elegantly played by Sami Butler, and Ruth, played by Cassie Estelle, one of our school-based therapists. The time machine will be stored away for a little while as we enter the Holiday season, but you never know when Dr. Brown and his amazing invention might show up again!
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