Pastor Brian Klassen serving with purpose

Pastor Brian Klassen is the new chaplain of the Wasco Police Department, being a bridge between the police force and the community. He comes with almost three decades of experience in ministry and said it is an exciting opportunity.

"I believe coming to Wasco means that I'm called not only to pastor a church but also to serve the community. It's working with Chief [Charles] Fivecoat; he is an amazing man. I've had the pleasure to meet several police officers, and I think they are tremendous individuals who are also looking to serve the community of Wasco."

As a chaplain, he said there are times when an individual may feel more comfortable talking to a chaplain rather than a police officer. "And it's helping assist the officers and the community in crisis scenarios when sometimes there are traumatic events where a chaplain can be beneficial."

Klassen is enthusiastic about getting to know the people of Wasco. "I've been here since September last year when my wife and I became the lead pastors of Tabernacle of Praise here in Wasco. Since we arrived, we fell in love with the community. We want to benefit and help them lead the life God has designed for them.

"And one of the greatest examples of leadership was Jesus. And he came to serve and not to be served. So, both as a pastor and chaplain, that is my motivation. To serve the community of Wasco and the surrounding areas."

He believes Chief Fivecoat, the mayor and the City Council have a great vision for the city. "They really do care about those in the community, and I'm looking forward to working with all of them, the other pastors in the community and the other two chaplains."

Klassen was born in Porterville, but spent much time living in Terra Bella, a small town in Tulare County. "I've been in ministry for over 25 years. I spent the last three years as an assistant pastor in Grover Beach and then was asked to come to Wasco. After coming here the first time, we knew this was where God wanted us."

As the new pastor of the Tabernacle of Praise, he said it's going well. "We are multicultural, multigenerational and faith-based, and are part of the Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee. We have tremendous members who love Wasco. Many have been here at the church for 30 years or more. We are all praying for the city of Wasco and those that live here."

He said that being a spiritual servant is a calling. "I enjoy helping people and supporting people through different life events. And it's really a call to serve people. As a pastor, you love people and care about people, which drives me. I want people to live to the fullest of what they can accomplish."