Spokane’s Shine 104.9 Welcomes New Chaplain

By Autumn Dunzweiler

UCC communications coordinator

Spokane’s Shine 104.9 (KEEH) welcomes Tyler Kern as its new chaplain. Kern is a fifth generation Adventist that grew up in the Midwest. After experiencing much heartache early on in his life, Kern has worked to overcome his life challenges and makes it his mission to share God’s word and minister to the community.

“We’re excited to welcome Chaplain Tyler and his young family,” shared Darin Patzer, Shine 104.9’s general manager. “Our goal in hiring a chaplain is to more deeply serve our radio audience.”

Kern went to Illinois State University and majored in mass communications-video production. While there, Kern met his wife, Amelia. Although Kern had strayed away from the church, he and his wife knew it was important to have a church community to raise their children in. They both began baptismal studies and committed their life to God in 2018. They now have five children.

“I have a heart for reaching people who have strayed away because I have lived that life and I know what it’s like,” shared Kern. “For me, growing up in the church, I feel like I’m a living example of training up a child. I understand the rareness it is for somebody to come back.”

Feeling moved by the Holy Spirit, in 2019 Kern applied and was accepted to attend seminary at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. During the 2020 pandemic, Kern realized his background in videography was an asset and began assisting churches by integrating live streaming and Zoom into their services. After graduation, Kern began his doctor of media ministry at Andrews University.

“Today in our city, we see so many who aren’t connected to a Christian community,” shared Patzer. “Ultimately the aim is to provide a spiritually led community of healthy activities, service projects, and worship gatherings.”

As chaplain, Kern has plans to reach listeners through the radio station and in the community. His goal is to minister to those who have been turned off by church or burned by church members, “the nones and dones,” that still have a faith in Jesus and want a personal relationship with Him but are no longer interested in traditional church.

“After praying about it, it’s clear that I felt called to this ministry and unique opportunity, through Shine 104.9, Serve One More, Simple Acts of Kindness, Renew Spokane, and to build a faith community,” explained Kern. “As a millennial, I’m the bridge between the generations. I want to incorporate intergenerational ministry and show authenticity. While hurt people hurt people, healed people heal people. That’s where I want to be.”

If you are interested in sharing your input or being a part of this new outreach, reach out to Tyler at chaplain@shine1049.org.