Ken's Jubilee Journal

In 2025, we are commemorating Ken’s anniversaries of 50 years of ordination and 25 years as pastor of this congregation. In lieu of a guestbook, Ken has requested this means for people to comment whose lives his ministry has touched over the years. He would love to hear your testimonial. Please consider telling your story of how and when and where Ken impacted your life in Christ Jesus.

Read Public Testimonies

Jim & Sharon GullicksonLocal Church, Dear Chaplain Ken,

We want to say thank you for your dedication to ministry throughout your career and now more specifically at the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation.

We also appreciate your sermons, your wisdom and your encouragement to us these past two years.

We feel that we belong to a true family of believers at the FSMCF.

Sincerely and in Christ’s love,
Jim & Sharon Gullickson

Len and Glenda KoehnenLocal Church, So glad we found the Chapel and you. After a few years of occasional visits we’re glad we joined. You are an amazing preacher and wonderful pastor.

Wish you many more years of service.

Mel & Leslie HenschelLocal Church, Military, In 2006 I was drilling as a naval reservist in a volunteer unit in Minneapolis. Volunteer units don’t really have much to do so Sunday’s are mostly free. Since I had the time I thought I would go to church. There was a chapel on the Air National Guard base so I headed on over. The chapel was deserted and from the lack of footprints in the snow no one had been there for quite a while. There was a notice on the door that services were available at the Fort Snelling Chapel so I headed over there.

It was the first time I heard Chaplain Beale and I was very impressed. I don’t remember the topic of his sermon but I went home that weekend thinking WOW.

Our home church was going more contemporary and we were looking for a more traditional church to our liking. I told my wife that I thought I’d found what we looking for. We started going every other week to be sure it was a good fit for us. We were impressed each week and soon joined the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation as members.

We have been impressed with each aspect of the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation's ministry and really enjoy Chaplain Beale’s messages.

Sharon EmdeLocal Church, Dearest Chaplain Ken.

Eighteen years ago (July 2007), my mother and I visited the Chapel for the very first time having learned of it by way of a “Places of Worship” display at Mall of America. All those ivory cards of every faith in an eye-catching display, most definitely a “God thing”!

At the time, I was on a 6-month leave from work undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer. Mom and I were “sold” on the Chapel that very first Sunday as your wonderful message resonated with us well beyond the walls of the Chapel. Your leadership and spirit-filled messages together with the warmth and kindness extended to us by the Chapel family kept us coming.

I will be eternally grateful to you for ministering to my mother, particularly in her final days. She loved you Ken, and went to meet Jesus 12 years ago with a peace that surpasses all understanding, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your loving witness to her!

Over the course of time, you have continued to have a profound impact on my spiritual growth and well-being. Your messages from the pulpit and Bible class topics are always “spot-on”. Your dedication, wisdom, and unwavering faith continue to be a guiding light for me.

As the shepherd of our congregation, you have provided comfort, wisdom, and support when the world surrounding us can feel overwhelming. Like Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, you have consistently encouraged us and built us up, one believer at a time.

Your years of service have been a beacon of light for the Chapel, reflecting the love and teachings of Christ in all that you do. Your leadership has not only guided me, but also inspired me to live a more spiritually passionate life. Your passion for and dedication to God are truly gifts from Him. You exemplify the best qualities of a godly leader and pastor, leading by example with compassion, kindness, and unwavering faith.

This is the perfect opportunity for me to express my heartfelt gratitude for all you do! Your dedication to our church and community is truly inspiring. Your ministry has enriched my life in more ways than I can count. Thank you for your tireless efforts to spread love and kindness, and for being a shining example of faith and compassion.

Chaplain Ken, you are one of those good and perfect gifts bestowed upon us by our Heavenly Father. You've been a constant source of light and guidance, never wavering in your dedication to His Word and His people. What a blessing you are to me and my Chapel family!

May the Lord continue to bless you with the joy, peace, and love that you have so freely given through your ministry.

In Christian love and thankfulness,
Sharon Emde

Wes & Judy WhiteLocal Church, Military, Ken,
After reading many of the wonderful comments about your ministry we totally agree so will add just a few more!

We greatly appreciate the personal concern that you have demonstrated to us personally & to all the family of God at the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation. You do as much for the congregation as a mega church does with it's large staff. We are especially thankful & blessed to hear Biblical sermons each Sunday. You always challenge the congregation to be fully committed to the Word of God & to apply it daily to our lives.

We ask for God's continued blessings upon your life & your ministry.

King RaminLocal Church, What can I say, Pastor Ken. After spending my entire life attending a church that was a part of several generations of my family, it quickly became a church addressing social issues instead of administering Christ’s teachings. Jackie and I became lost, but soon found FSMCF. What a blessing to be given this gift of your voice. It aligns with my personal beliefs.

I just want to say “Thank you.”

God Bless
King 👑

Cynthia ThomsLocal Church, I have known you for only 2 months, however, I like what I see. I see a man of God, devoted to Him and preaching His message. Your sermons are informative, inspiring, and able to keep one on the Christain track. I look forward to more years of your chaplaincy.

You are an inspiration! You also have a great voice!

Gerald Bray, JrLocal Church, Family, My parents, Gerald Bray Sr and Lois Bray attended the Chapel to hear a good friend sing. They enjoyed it so much they became members. When I was in town (I live in New Orleans) I would attend with them.

After my father passed away my brothers took turns bringing my mother to the Chapel (she never learned to drive) and I took a turn when I was able. Ken performed beautiful services for both my parents after they passed away.

Speaking for my family, we are forever grateful. Ken's influence on our family is so entrenched that several family members (brothers, niece) have become active members at the Chapel. Knowing the impact Ken has had on my family, I can only guess at the scores of people he has touched.

Ken, I am blessed you came into my life. Even from 1400 miles away your influence is always felt.

Congratulations and thank you!

Jerry Bray

Ann PolachekLocal Church, Military, In October of 2019, my mom, Cora May Polachek, and I, Ann Polachek, became members. Unfortunately, my mom died in September of 2021. Even though my mom had only been a member for almost two years, she had come to the church for over three years before that. I had come to the church on and off for over ten years.

My mom taught me that the most important thing in life is God, and to find a happy home and have communion in a church. When my mom had the hearing buds from the Chapel, she could hear Pastor Beale's messages loud and clear. She enjoyed being part of the Chapel and loved feeling alive in the Chapel. Many times my mom would make comments out loud when all was quiet...so many will remember her cute words

Pastor Beale made my mom feel very important.

I was raised in a Methodist Church in Winona. My mom was also a member there for over fifty years

However, both my mom and I felt really connected with Pastor Beale's sermons, especially since Pastor Beale was one of the few preachers that spoke like we thought. That is hard to find these days. Most churches have become so liberal. We were glad that Pastor Beale spoke his mind against communism, President Biden and was for pro-life.

When my mom passed in 2021, Pastor Beale was there, even when my siblings were not. Pastor Beale brought much peace and a true essence that comes with faith in God. Pastor Beale has made the Chapel a true family connection, when one finds things change when parents pass.

Thank you for being there Pastor Beale. You have truly shared the faith in a spirit that my mom wanted to pass on to me.

Thank you for sharing the faith and making it real.

Daniel BredvoldLocal Church, Ken’s ministry was so much appreciated by both my mother and her sister as I was able to bring them to the chapel in their later years. Aunt Evie was quite hard of hearing and one Sunday after church I asked her if she had liked the sermon. She replied “I loved it and I heard every word”.

Ken my favorite recent moment was when you referred to Governor Walz as a tyrant during Covid-19. Thanks for standing tall!

Thanks Ken

Lewis OlsonOther, GideonsIn January of 2024 I was scheduled for some major surgery for a cancerous tumor in my mouth. The Sunday before this was to take place my wife and I watched the Chapel service online. We sent a text with our prayer request mentioning that I was a Gideon. Chaplain Beale recognized who I was right away. In addition to praying for me that Sunday, he called the night before my surgery and prayed for me over the phone. Several months later I stopped by his office and he prayed over me for some after surgery complications I went through. Not being a member of the Chapel, Chaplain Beale is not my pastor, just a very special friend.

George Bemis JrMilitary, Family, Ken,

The Bemis Family wishes you much joy and success not only in your Chapel leadership but in all your life activities. Your Chapel leadership has been an inspiration to all who have known you and know you now.

Looking forward to many more years of friendship.

Leah and George

Rich & Betty QuiringLocal Church, Chaplain Ken, I don't even know where to begin. I have started & stopped many times trying to figure out how and what to say. Rich & I started coming to the Chapel because of the great sermon reviews that my sister & brother-in-law would tell us about. I don't remember the year, but Rich & I started to attend the Chapel for worship, and we were happy to hear the Gospel being preached. It was a blessing to hear the sermons, because we had some bad experiences with churches not preaching the Gospel & going woke. I don't remember the year we finally joined, but it was because of the messages that were preached.

Chaplain Ken, you have amazing talents and your concern for your congregation is very evident. The K25/50 has been an amazing journey that you have taken the congregation on over the last 25 years with the bulletin inserts/articles in Snelling Spirit & Chapel Chatter, your journey has given the congregation a look at a man of God, who says, "But as for me & my household we will serve the Lord" Joshua 24:15

John KruseLocal Church, In the years leading up to 2020, I had come to the well-researched conclusion and reality, that the Biblical account of Creation bears no resemblance to what the world tells us in both the creation vs. evolution arena, as well as in the cosmology realm.

Well in 2020, I shared my dilemma with Chaplain Beale and added that I’d like to go public with my studies on how the Bible actually describes the created world we live in, in direct opposition to the world of a spinning globe with galaxies of whirling planets, that we are programmed to believe as “scientific truth”.

On one hand we have the Bible describing in, easily 75 – 100 verses, a complete world that might, from a distance resemble a huge enclosed terrarium that is completely at rest, with the Creator Himself residing directly above the firmament, and where the earth is described as “His footstool”. At least five verses tell us emphatically that the earth shall not be moved! I don’t even need to describe the diametrical picture we are presented with unceasingly in schools, movies and tv in terms of solar systems and space, since we are expected to adopt only one accepted and proven “truth”, beginning back when we could just barely stand on two legs--depicting a starkly different cosmology.

This on top of the creation vs. evolution debate where the world has force-fed Darwin’s fairy-tale version of our beginnings in direct contradiction to what the Bible clearly lays out in print. Well, in 2020, I proposed to Chaplain Beale a one-year, six-part series on Biblical Cosmology that I would cover in my regular column in the Snelling Spirit, “The Creation Corner”.

Well to my absolute surprise, Chaplain Beale gave me the green light, starting in the January 2021 issue. He allowed me to go ahead, with the provision that I back up my research with Biblical verses and take on the task as my own work only. I tell you that not one in a hundred church leaders would have allowed me to proceed with that series! I stand here today and credit him with the willingness and intrepidness to allow me to blaze a trail that few would have allowed or even considered. (Next two issues: “Does God have a body?” … all laid out in Bible verses). Here we go again…

Let me not forget to mention that in the flurry and confusion of the government lockdowns of 2020-21, the Chapel’s doors remained open to the public when others closed up shop, masked up, and moved to Youtube.

Congratulations on this anniversary.
John Kruse.

Mick and Sandy BurkardLocal Church, Dear Pastor Ken,

Congratulations on 50 years of pastoral commitment to not only God, but all of us.

We remember the first time we attended the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel and in part of your introduction you said if you’re new and you don’t like what I have to say…then don’t come back! Lol! Well, that’s when we knew after hearing your entire service that we wanted to come back as much as we could. Your passion and delivery of the Bible are intense, direct and obligatory. We appreciate the truth in knowing that GOD is The ALL Mighty and we must follow the Word.

Thank you for being you and thank you for all your pastoral service and thank you for your military service.

We will always cherish and be appreciative of your prayers for Mick when he was going through Stage 4 cancer. God has answered the congregation’s prayers and we cannot thank you and all of the congregation enough!

Sandy Burkard

Adding on:
Thank you for your prayers and your leadership. Mick Burkard

Tim BrayLocal Church, My parents started attending the church in the early 2000's. They spoke very highly of Ken. After my dad passed in 2011, my brothers and I started bringing my mom. My first time there I was so impressed by Ken, the people and the Chapel. I eventually got involved and started going every week. This only happened because of Ken.

He built something very special and I am excited to be part of it. It is also a blessing that he did the funeral services for my dad, mom and sister.

Thank you Ken for all that you do!!

Carol NygaardLocal Church, For twenty-five years Ken has been my Pastor. For the past 11 years he has also been my boss and co-worker. And for all those years I’ve considered him to be a friend. The bonus is that Kathy is also my friend!

When Ken attended his first Fellowship meeting as the Associate Pastor, I told a few of the members that we better get new shoes as we now have met a real go getter! I was not wrong. Ken’s vision and attention to detail continues to amaze me!
He always promotes the Chapel as a place of worship that preaches the truth in God’s word. My favorite is all the freebies he shares during sermons! He also continues to put emphasis on the Veterans every Sunday and in all of our special Veteran Sundays.

Ken, congratulations on this milestone. I’m looking forward to many more years with you as my pastor, boss/co-worker and friend!

Carol Nygaard

CH (COL) Buddy WinnLocal Church, Military, I didn’t meet Chaplain Ken Beale at the beginning of his ministry. By the time our paths crossed, he had already spent years in uniform and was nearing the close of his full-time service as an Army chaplain. He was also serving at the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel, a place that holds memory like few others, and was tending to the flock with the kind of care that comes from deep conviction.

At that point in my own work, I was serving full-time with the Minnesota National Guard. I was looking for ministry opportunities around veterans and their families on a regular basis. I found it at the Chapel. Ken welcomed me, encouraged me, and before long he put my name forward to the board of directors. They brought me on as the Associate Chaplain, and that’s still where I serve today.

Ken’s ministry doesn’t call attention to itself, but you notice its weight. He prepares, he listens, and he stays present when presence is what people need most.

You hear it in the way he speaks, but you can also see it in the way he serves. He notices when the little things are out of place. He remembers names, not just ranks. He treats the quiet parts of ministry as sacred, too.

Ken isn’t building a platform or chasing applause, but doing the work because it matters. That kind of faithfulness doesn’t always show up in headlines, but it leaves a mark just the same. He is a model of integrity and pastoral care for others to emulate.

He speaks with affection and love about “his Kathy,” who has been a pillar of support and key to the foundation of his ministry. She is also worthy of great admiration and recognition.

So thank you, Chaplain Beale: For the years you’ve given, the people you’ve cared for, and the example you continue to set. You remind us that ministry is not about being seen. It’s about being there.

CH (COL) Buddy Winn

Sarah TakagiFamily, Chaplain Ken:

Thank you for your years of dedication to spreading God's good news and the joy of music.

When our paths merged together in 2022 due to the sudden loss of my mother, I knew that the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel, thanks to your endless effort and love you have poured into saving and preserving this Chapel, was the perfect place to keep my mother's legacy and love for music alive with the donation of the Steinway piano, which began her legacy.

Thank you for your dedication!!! I enjoy being able to be part of the services on Livestream and look forward to coming next week to be able to witness the fellowship at the Chapel.

Here is to another chapter of your service and dedication. BRAVO and ARIGATOU.

With fondness,
The Takagi's

Robin and Brad NelsonLocal Church, Family, We strongly believe in the power of prayer and always remember to pray for the little everyday concerns and guidance as well as for bigger life changing issues. It is such a comfort to be able to reach out to you, Chaplain Beale, to ask for your extra prayer power to join ours for the serious issues at hand. You have joined us in prayer by the phone at home, in the car over the speaker as we are driving, at our Arizona home and several times in the hospital before our surgeries and treatments.

You always bring us comfort as you pray to our Father in Heaven for us and for healing and peace in our hearts. We know that all will be well.

God Bless you and thank you for being our Chaplain,
Robin and Brad Nelson

Dr. Desi KlempayLocal Church, Amazing things can happen at funerals that change our lives forever. We mourn those we loved and who loved us, and then we are surprised. After a funeral service, a tall, kind looking man of God approached me while I was putting my music away. As we exchanged greetings, I gave him my business card that read "organist".

Out of the blue in 2018, I answered a call from that man of God, but I was not ready to hear God's message. Prayer helps us discern God's will, so I did call back with "yes".

Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel had an open, warm, welcoming feeling. With Chaplain Ken's encouragement I auditioned for the Board members. It was Chaplain Ken's open and willing spirit that gave me the confidence to remain. I am grateful to this very day that this man of God continues to encourage and guide me. That hot cup of coffee waiting for me every Sunday morning is a greatly appreciated treat from that generous Chaplain.

It is a blessing for me to be in this ministry. Thank you, Chaplain Ken, for giving me the opportunity to use my love for music and the ministry at Ft. Snelling Memorial Chapel.

Oh, did I mention that it is because of Chaplain Ken, whose melodic voice leads us in prayerful song, that the 1928 Kimball pipe organ has the renewed life it deserves in praising God, and that a Louis XV grand piano from the Langer family has found a home at the Ft. Snelling Memorial Chapel.

Thank you, Chaplain Ken Beale.

Dr. Desi Klempay

Stephen AndersonLocal Church, "Put the big rocks in first." I will always remember that.

When we were looking for a new church in 2022, we attended a service at the Chapel. That first sermon and subsequent sermons have given us the biblical teachings we were seeking. They are the calm each Sunday that we need in view of all the chaos around us.

Ken has been a mentor and has become a good friend. His support and prayers have been the major support through my journey with my heart surgery and the recovery phase that I am now in. We have had many good times at AMVETS.

Congratulations on your accomplishments. I wish all the best for the future.

Most of all – Thank You.

Pat KallevigFamily, Your sermons are the best. I always learn from them and I am so grateful that God led me to the Chapel to worship.

Congratulations on both anniversaries.

CONNIE PAYETTELocal Church, Military, Other, FriendsI began my Army Reserve Military Service in 1996 as a Spec 4, Administer Instructor at the USAR School at Fort Snelling and ended my career as a CW4 Food Service Officer 29 years later.

During these years I met Chaplain Kenneth Beale in many various places. First when he gave Church Services to us Reservist on Drill weekends in the Building 506 cafeteria at Fort Snelling. Then I became a full time civilian in the DSCOP as Budget Analyst in the office down the hall from him when he was the 88th ARCOM Active Duty Chaplain.

I met his wife Kathy, also a Reservist, in the S-1 office in building 506 Fort Snelling.

When Chaplin Beale became the pastor at the FSMC, I joined the church.

I have been a friend of Chaplain Ken's for many years. Although I became a Texas resident and moved to Frisco, TX, I livestream his wonderful services and attend the Chapel in person when I am in the Minneapolis area.

My most recent encounter with Ken and Kathy was having the privilege of dog sitting their precious girls, Latte and Coco, while they were on a cruise with Ken's brother and his wife, Keith and Nancy.

Keep up the fantastic Blessed service's for many more years.

Love you Both and the Girls!

Savannah Bray-JanzenLocal Church, I have enjoyed getting to know you over the years. My Grandparents, Jerry & Lois Bray enjoyed listening to your sermons and it’s been a great honor to continue that tradition and being part of the Chapel.

God Bless You!
-Savannah

Allison HermansonMilitary, We met Colonel Beale back in 2010 when he was stationed at Ft. Knox and coming back to MN to be Ft. Snelling’s Chaplain. We met him on Thursday evening when we picked him up from the airport and drove directly to the Chapel for our wedding rehearsal. He and his wife, Kathy, accepted our request to attend our reception.

We have kept in touch via the use of social media and consider the Beales extended family through the common grounds of the military and the love of Jesus.

In 2017 we were stationed stateside and were able to have our third and final child, Adaline baptized by CH Beale at Ft. Snelling. It was a very special experience as I had my wedding gown made into a baptismal gown.

On the cusp of my husband and my 15 year wedding anniversary we are very excited to celebrate Ken in this amazing milestone in his life.

Thank you Ken and Kathy for your dedication to your congregation and community.

Padre Howie KrienkeMilitary, I am Chaplain Howie Krienke (COL-Ret) from Zion Lutheran Church in Hopkins, MN. I have served there 46 years and spent 32 years in the USAR. I spent many years at Ft. Snelling and when I became the Supervisory Chaplain O6 of the 88th ARCOM, I had the chance to select my staff and, if memory serves me correctly, I could choose by name. I chose Chaplain Kenneth Beale (CPT) to be that individual. Ken was a person of abnormal potential and Christian commitment!

He was such a devoted servant of the Lord Jesus Christ and his joyful spirit was contagious! I never made a more brilliant decision in my life! Look where the everlasting and almighty God has taken him. Congratulations Ken! To God be the Glory. Linda and I love you so!

Then there was that Mrs. Beale who so efficiently ran the S-1 at the ARCOM where all our records, OER's, training reports, and vital information were kept. That now allows the U.S. Government to drop bundles of $50 bills from a wheelbarrow at our mailboxes each month so that we can enjoy the wonderful life of our retirement.

Thanks be to God for this beloved family!

Bob MaginnisLocal Church, It was in early April in 2014 during a time in our lives that my wife Barb and I were very busy. I was entering my third year as President of the Republican Seniors of Minnesota organization with Barb as Secretary. In addition we were busy "shopping" for a new church home.

About this time, Don Patton, who assisted me in getting speakers for our Seniors monthly meetings, informed me that he had arranged for a chaplain named Ken Beale to be our next speaker. My immediate thought was: why would we have a pastor for our main speaker? I told Barb, "We better go to this Ft. Snelling Chapel on Sunday to see what this guy is all about."

Well, it turned out that Rev. Ken was a great hit as a speaker and more than that, Barb and I found exactly the kind of church we were looking for and we had been attending church services there ever since. Unfortunately, Barb went to our Lord in early 2024, but I continue to be a semi-active member.

Words alone can not express what Rev. Ken Beale, as well as the whole congregation, have meant to me and my family over the years.

God Bless you, Rev. Ken Beale. You are a very special man on this earth!

Rose SullivanLocal Church, Chaplain Ken,

Congratulations on your 25 years at the Ft Snelling Memorial Chapel and your 50 years in the ministry! What amazing feats - we are all so blessed to have you leading us!

I had been looking for a church for many years when I first attended the Chapel. Because of my many ties to the military, I immediately felt at home. I was hooked when the service started with the three bells announcing the beginning of the service.

I joined the congregation in September of 2022. Only after I had been coming for a while did I learn that your fingerprints are all over the flow of the services...the Welcome Kit, which tells about the history of the chapel and the beliefs of the congregation, among other things; the Special Music each week; the opportunity to have the congregation pray for an individual or intention each and every Sunday. This is especially important because of my large family; we often have someone in special need of prayers.

I love the meaningful messages in your sermons, delivered with your deep, booming voice. I appreciate that you are direct and don't shy away from subjects that need to be covered, though some might find them controversial or hard to hear, I always look forward to the church service where we can take an active part by responding and singing the wonderful old hymns, again, led by your great booming voice. I also appreciate your personal touch of an email or text to let us know you are praying for the person the congregation prayed for that day; that really touches my heart!

I am so very pleased and I thank God that you have decided to stay on as our Senior Chaplain! I look forward to many more of your sermons delivered in that wonderful booming voice of yours.

May God bless you as you continue your ministry here at the Chapel.

Jim and Dorothea JohnsLocal Church, Dear Ken

Where do we begin. It feels like we have known you and Kathy forever.

We had been looking for a new church home in the 90’s and kept coming back to the Chapel. We heard all the different pastors, but just couldn’t decide. Then you came and after a few times listening to your sermons, we knew we had to join the Chapel.

We feel so blessed by your message each Sunday and appreciate the friends you and Kathy have become.

We wish you both many more years of joy, health and happiness.

We also want to thank you for your service to our Country. God bless you both.

Colette L . WinnLocal Church, It is a privilege to attend Fort Snelling Chapel and sit under Chaplain Beale’s teachings. I appreciate the preparation he puts in each week to provide us with biblically supported sermons. Chaplain Beale is a strong moral leader and I count it a great honor to serve under his leadership!

Vern & Jan AndersonLocal Church, Military, Ken,

Congratulations on your 50 years of ordained ministry proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ! Well done good and faithful servant of the Gospel!

It was also great to have served with you as an Army Chaplain. 'For God and Country'

We have always been blessed to have you preach the Word of God with enthusiasm and power at the Fort Snelling Chapel. The Fort Snelling Chapel family has truly been blessed to have you as their Chaplain for 25 years.

God's continued blessings on your ministry as you go forward.

God bless you and Kathy in all the future holds for you.

Forever grateful for your ministry!
Vern & Jan Anderson

CH (BG) Douglas E Lee US Army (Ret)Military, Ken and I met as he was applying for a USAR AGR Chaplain position in the early 90's. His qualifications as a pastor, BSA Executive and USAR Chaplain made him a perfect fit for this growing segment of the Army Chaplaincy. We made great decision to hire him as he went on to distinguish himself as an extremely competent Senior Leader! Not only that, but he kept the "MN Home Fires" burning as he served at the Ft Snelling Chapel...close to my childhood home.

Well done, Ken...proud of all you've done to serve our country and glorify our God!

Curtis & Lynette UtpadelLocal Church, MilitaryWell my dear friend it has been fifty (50) years since you were ordained as a Pastor. The last twenty-five (25) years you have served as the Chaplain at the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation. In addition to accomplishing all of that you have also served in the Army as a Chaplain for 25 years. While serving in the military you also completed the Army War College and for those last years in the military you were responsible for recruiting chaplains for the US Army. While in that position you exceeded goals for what was required. WOW WHAT A CAREER!!!

You have influenced me and my family spiritually for almost twenty-five years. You have performed the marriage ceremony for all three of our daughters. They are Mishawn, Jessica, and Alysia. In addition you have baptized our grandchildren from those marriages. They are Patton, Joseph, Zachary, and Cooper, who are the sons of Jessica and Shane Hudella; and Samantha, the daughter of Alysia and Nicholas Zarbo. You renewed the wedding vows for my father-in-law and mother-in-law, Melvin and Bernice Rabine. You also renewed the wedding vows for Lynette and I on our 25th wedding anniversary. Now in August 2025 you are going to perform the marriage vows for Joseph and Bree.

Also remembering 25 years ago I was your best man when Kathy and you were married.

What you have performed for just our family who are members of the congregation you have also done for many other families of the congregation. Your pastoral duties and the performance of same far exceed what many other churches require of their ministers.

To add to this, we first became acquainted with one another while we served in the Army Reserves with the 457th Transportation Battalion. Our work areas were right next to each other. There were times when I was counseling a soldier that there would be a
knock on the partition cautioning me to tone down the language. You always took care of me.

We congratulate you on 50 years of ministry for the good Lord and to the people you have cared for thru God's words. God bless you and your lovely wife Kathy.

Jim and Jillian StockerLocal Church,Our first child, Josie, was born with multiple heart defects and we were captives of the Neonatal Intensive Care unit at the hospital. We were waiting for our daughter to stabilize and prepare for her first heart surgery. That evening, on a Friday, Ken asked if he could come to the hospital to visit. Chaplain Beale’s presence, prayers and words of strength that evening were a great gift to our family. His prayers brought us comfort and peace in a time of fear and uncertainty as new parents. We are forever grateful for Ken upholding us with God’s wisdom and Grace working through him.

Robert CizekLocal Church, At a 2017 July 4th event at Fort Snelling, I saw a Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel open house sign. Valerie and I checked it out and met Chaplain Beale who gave us a tour of the chapel. We were impressed and decided to attend Sunday worship services. The bulletin described the Christian Education class to start after Labor Day featuring a teaching series by David Barton. This peaked my interest because while in Charis Bible School, I taught this same course, therefore, asked Chaplain Beale if he needed help. His response; how about you facilitate the class? I eagerly took on this challenge and to my delight, have facilitated this class ever since.

Thanks Chaplain Beale for the opportunity to get involved with Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation, a wonderful church.

Gea BrownLocal Church, Family, It was the "Vote Your Values," series that brought me to FSMC. Ken's biblical sermons, leadership, friendship, and promotion of fellowship within the congregation coupled with my neediness has kept me faithful. I am still a long distance member of the prayer chain and in continuous contact with many members of the chapel.

I praise God for you and FSMCF.

Debra HenshawYouth Group, I am so thankful that Ken was my Youth Group leader 1972-1974. His dedication to sharing God's love and hope in Jesus to all in our youth group was amazing. Ken was very energetic and creative in reaching out to the high school level. Everyone LOVED coming to youth group and attending the retreats, the Summer Coffeehouse, and giving back to the community by participating in local mission projects. His Faith in God and his ability to relate to kids was apparent.

Ken also was good at making us really think about our relationship with Jesus. During retreats we would go off by ourselves and write a covenant to God. I still have mine. Whether we were having communion on the beach, having Bible study, or watching a movie like "Thief in the Night", Ken was very intentional about teaching us. I became more serious about my relationship with Jesus because of Ken. As with a lot of kids, I turned away for a period of time in my life, but those early years were a foundation I was able to build on later in life.

Thank you so much Ken. You were the best youth group leader ever.

Love,
Debbie

martin c . johnsonLocal Church, Military, Chaplain Ken has made the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel a special place - more Christ-centered and intimate than my previous church.

Alysia ZarboOther, The Zarbo FamilyKen has married my sisters and I, he has baptized our kids, he has been a huge part of our family for years and years!

We are forever grateful for his kindness and his loyal friendship to my parents.

Wishing you all the best Ken, we love you!

Linda CameronLocal Church, Military, It was a very good day for me when Doug Bekke brought me to FSMC for the first time. I have never felt more at home in a congregation, or more in tune with the pastors, than I do at the chapel, and your messages hit home every time. I appreciate the research behind your sermons, your Biblical world view, the prayers you've offered for friends – and your sense of humor, too.

Thanks for all you have done and are doing for this congregation!

Happy Anniversary!

Rob NolandMilitary, Ken,

We first met at a United Methodist conference where I was recruiting chaplains for the military. I believe you were already a Reserve Chaplain and you helped me at the booth as we recruited others who may be interested in becoming chaplains.

It was the beginning of a long and very enjoyable relationship with you, my brother.

Blessings.

Love you,
Rob

Gordon GrosecloseMilitary, Ken - working Chaplain Personnel at the Pentagon, you stepped into my life during a critical period of the US Army Chaplaincy.

The Army was ramping up sustain combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and the Army Chaplaincy was woefully understrength. The Army Chief of Chaplains knew there could not be any alternative and committed that no US son or daughter would combat deploy without their assigned chaplain. Ken, serving as the Senior Chaplain for Recruiting Command, you made that commitment possible and it had an impact on the thousands who went into harm's way under the pastoral care of a chaplain.

I rejoice in the Lord's grace as you continue to ensure the Pastoral Care for others.

Congratulations on your faithful service 25-50!

Gordon

Catherine KilmerMilitary, I will never forget my time with you as my Chaplain. You are indeed, one of the finest men I’ve ever met. I’m forever indebted to you for spending time with me during my investigation process.

You have been an inspiration to many, some of who you’ll never know.

May God continue to bless all of your future.

Deanna CzarneckiMilitary, Chaplain Beale! We met while at the 88th RSC. Military Chaplains can be tricky to connect with sometimes, but you were one of the greats! You always had a smile to share and a positive demeanor. I always appreciated your message and the way in which you shared God’s word.

Congratulations on an incredible career and milestone.

May God’s blessings continue for you!

John Charles VisherYouth Group, Military, Growing up attending schools in Upper Dublin from grade 1 to grade 10, from 1964 to 1973, my father, mother, 3 older brothers and I never attended any Christian church. I did not know anything about Jesus. From the Fall of 1973, while I was in 10th grade at Upper Dublin High School (UDHS), fellow students invited me to join the Jarrettown United Methodist Church (JUMC) Youth Group led by Ken Beale. I remember feeling accepted and loved by those attending.

Ken encouraged us to pray to and trust Jesus. On December 31, 1973, at home alone in my room, I prayed to Jesus. Jesus appeared in my dream. I woke up on January 1, 1974, and sensed the Holy Spirit had entered me and filled me with our Father/ Son Jesus/ Holy Spirit's love. I turned to my mother and said that I had met God. I asked my mother to go with me to JUMC on the next Sunday. My mother, Dorothy Ruth Schuchman Visher worshipped Jesus every Sunday for the rest of her life until 2003. I invited my 3 older brothers and father also to be involved with JUMC and with the Youth Group.

I attended the JUMC Youth Group and also Young Life until I graduated from UDHS in 1976. Jesus shown through Ken to me during my 3 years of high school from 1973 to 1976. From 1976 to 1980, at Gordon College, in Wenham, MA, professors following Jesus led me to a deeper relationship with Jesus. One professor suggested I become a lawyer. I studied law from 1981 to 1984 at Temple U, Philadelphia, PA. The Christian Legal Society chapter at Temple Law helped direct my steps as a law student.

I joined the US Navy as a JAG lawyer officer and served on active and reserve duty from 1984 to 2012 primarily in Japan. Trusting Jesus has been and is now my priority, thanks in part, to the ministry of Ken, who first preached to me to trust Jesus in 1973 at JUMC Youth Group.

MSG(Ret) Douglas RandallMilitary, I worked with Ken as a Chaplain assistant for my last 4 years of my Army Reserve career. He was great influence on my spiritual journey then and still today. May God continue to bless you and your ministry.

Rochelle Chase PistulkaMilitary, Many years ago, Chaplain Beale was my Chaplain in the military. He helped emotionally with our deployment. He baptized my daughter in our military service. Fast forward many years - he baptized my grandson and married my husband and I.

Ken has laid footprints on our hearts, and the world is a better place because of him.

Thank you for all you have done for me and my family.

Joy JohnsonLocal Church, We first came to the Chapel because Joy had seen the sign advertising an ecumenical church service while riding her bike past Fort Snelling.
It was Memorial Day weekend and we were so moved by the patriotic service and the heartfelt message from Chaplain Beale. We kept coming back and appreciated every week his stirring messages encouraging us to live the Christian life with boldness and faith. We were thankful for his strong leadership, sense of humor and bravery in speaking out for our Christian heritage in a secular world.

Joy especially enjoyed his ringing singing voice and enthusiasm for a wide variety of music at Chapel services. Thanks so much for having a lasting impact on our lives. Your life has been an encouragement and inspiration to us as we seek to witness to our family, neighbors and co-workers.

May God hold you in His loving care from this day forward until He welcomes you into His kingdom!

Your friends, Randy and Joy Johnson

Bill HoppeLocal Church, My wife Joyce and I started attending the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel in July of 2013. We fell in love with Chaplain Ken Beale's preaching and the people there.

In December of 2017, Joyce was diagnosed with AML Leukemia. Her initial stay at Abbott Northwestern Hospital was 37 days. From the time Chaplain Ken knew about her illness, he was a regular visitor in the hospital as well as, at our home when she was released. I clearly remember one day that he showed up just as Joyce was being wheeled out of her room to have a very dangerous and painful medical test/procedure done. As she was wheeled into the hallway, Chaplain Ken proclaimed in his booming voice, "You be careful with her. She is a child of God!" It was during this terrible time of suffering that Chaplain Ken showed the man of God that he truly is. He wasn't like other pastors that just check the box with a quick devotional and then off they go. He showed his genuine love and concern for Joyce and I.

We would talk and laugh about such a wide variety of things. He would have a cup of "Cowboy Coffee" that Joyce made and maybe a treat if we had any. Of course he would always pray for both of us before he left, always standing in a circle holding hands. One day he actually sang "God Will Take Care of You" while we held hands in the living room. We learned some great clean jokes that I'll always remember. He spent his valuable time with us even though he had nothing to gain by doing it.

On December 8th, 2020, he cancelled the Tuesday Bible study and rushed to Abbott Hospital where we both held Joyce's hand as she passed away. He helped me throughout the burial and memorial arrangements. He designed Joyce's memorial pamphlet and preached her memorial sermon at the Chapel and at the National Cemetery. I honestly don't know what I would have done without his help. He kept me going in my time of grief . We went out to eat and went to movies that we wanted to see. He kept me involved in the Chapel and life in general. I truly believe that without his friendship and counseling that I would have taken my own life.

Chaplain Ken Beale is a true man of God that practices what he preaches. I am so honored that he is the best friend and mentor that I have ever had. As we prepare to honor his service to the people of the Chapel as well as the Kingdom of God, I can truly say that there is no finer man, person or preacher alive and he deserves all the honor he receives.

I love you Chaplain Ken and I know Joyce does too.

Travis N. BeardLocal Church, When first we met and Ken absorbed that I was a retired U.S. Naval officer, he remarked that had I donned my white uniform that day, I might have been mistaken for an ice cream vendor. Of course he rubbed it in with a hearty chuckle. I managed to squeeze out a laugh myself and we both enjoyed the howdy do. Nevertheless, for the future I made it a point to ensure Ken was promptly notified each time Navy beat Army in the annual Army/Navy football game. And of course that he wore the appropriate attire downstairs following church service. No doubt that Ken would look good in Navy whites!

Fair winds and following seas, Ken.

Terry & Margaret FlowerLocal Church, Military, Your legacy of excellence and integrity will continue to inspire us. Thank you for every lesson taught from the pulpit and every challenge faced together with all of us. You’ve touched so many lives along the way, especially ours. Your kindness, wisdom, and support have meant the world to us. Here’s to you, your achievements, and to many more years of friendship, leadership and collaboration!

Tony & Barb Stockerlocal churchKen has brought our whole family closer to God. He stands for the Word of God without any compromise and his deep concern for all chapel members resonates with us. His dedication, guidance and support mean everything to our family. Ken's hard work and friendship to our family have brought us closer together. I have seen Chaplain Ken overcome hardship and evil in attempts to destroy our chapel. Ken has been a devoted custodian of our chapel and a devoted servant of the Lord. Thank you, Ken, for your love and kindness over the years.

Jeanette BuckLocal Church, My husband Cal and I, came to the Chapel the day our church was closed because of Covid. We experienced one of best sermons of our life time. I later became a member.
I want to thank you Pastor Ken, for the wonderful funeral service for Cal. Please do the same for me.

Anne HellerLocal Church, Ken, I am so grateful to you for being the key reason for bringing me back to active involvement in the Church, along with chapel members. It started with watching chapel services on LiveStream during the plague. You were preaching to empty pews because the government had dictated no church attendance, but the first time I watched, I instantly knew this was my new church and you were my new minister. My church of 65 years had become secular and lost its way. I hadn’t been an active part of it for more than 20 years. It wasn’t that I had forsaken the Church as much as the Church as I had known it had forsaken me. I visited some churches but found nothing that caused me to want to join and become an active part. The Church had been so much a part of my life and I had been very active in it. As it grew more secular, it turned me from wanting to be an active part of it. Through all that, my belief was unchanged. The answer to the question my minister asked when I made my confession of faith at age 12—“Anne Heller, do you believe with all of your heart that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, and do you accept him as your Lord and Savior for life?”—was still a resounding “YES!” So thank you, Ken, for being the person God made you, for being God’s faithful disciple, for being a minister of the Gospel, for being the pastor of the chapel flock. You brought me back!
Anne

Frank & Arlene AmyotteLocal Church, We became members in 2002. Because of health problems we couldn't attend any more. We received sermon tapes and were encouraged by them. Our health is still poor, but now we watch the sermons on live stream, and your messages are very good and helpful for us.
Thank God for Chaplain Ken

God Bless Ken & Kathy

Love in Jesus
Frank & Arlene

Bev JohnsonLocal Church, My husband, Johnnie, and I have been attending worship services at the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel since 2008. The first time we attended a worship service, Ken was preaching. Listening to his sermon and hearing him sharing the Word, as written, convinced us that we had found our new church home.

Over the years Ken has become not only our pastor, but our good friend and since 2014, my boss. I can honestly say that I have never seen a pastor more dedicated to his congregation than Ken. The dedication I have observed cannot easily be put into words, but to say he works 24/7 for the betterment of the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation is not an exaggeration.

While other churches are experiencing a decline in their attendance, the Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation continues to grow and this is due, in large part, to the fact that Ken doesn't compromise our Lord's teachings to fit today's society, but continues to preach the truth.

Ken has blessed so many lives over the years and I will always be thankful for that day in 2008 when we walked into the Chapel. He has been a blessing to Johnnie and I every since.

Thank you Ken for all that you do - you are appreciated much more than you will ever know.

Ken's Jubilee Journal

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