Spiritual Life

Spiritual Life at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch

Our success in serving children and families is attributed in great part to our Spiritual Life Program. We walk side-by-side with children on their spiritual journey—in many cases introducing them to Christianity for the first time.

The teachings and love of Christ are at the very core of all we do, and all we stand for. While not all of our staff, kids, or donors are Christian, Christianity is the foundation of our social mission. We serve God by serving others—with a non-judgmental, accepting, tolerant, and loving approach.

Helping Children and Families Grow Spiritually

Upon admission, children are assessed regarding their spiritual background and beliefs. From spiritual histories and life maps to questionnaires and individual treatment plan discussions, this assessment addresses all aspects of a child’s life. Assessment results are shared with our treatment teams for consideration in treatment planning.

Children have the opportunity to attend Chapel and Spiritual Life Groups, and meet individually with an on-campus Pastor or Chaplain. They also are invited to minister to others by working with the elderly off campus, attending Bible camp, volunteering for the community during special events, and more.

Children who choose not to take part in Christian programming participate in a values program—which teaches many of the same values of love, compassion, and forgiveness, but without a religious connection.

If it weren’t for Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, I’d probably either be dead or telling this story from a prison cell. The most important thing they did as the Ranch was to point me towards faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of my life. Today my home is a place of love and laughter-- a place for my family and I to grow together and to be shaped in the image of Christ.

former resident

The people at the Ranch honestly cared for me and loved me at a time in my life when I thought the whole world was against me. With their help, and the introduction of God as a Father, I realized I could do it and that I could change.

former resident

Helping Staff Grow Spiritually

Our Spiritual Life Program extends to our staff, who receive a daily devotion from our on-staff Chaplain, and have access to individual spiritual guidance as requested.

Spiritual Life Staff

Our Spiritual Life staff includes pastors and Spiritual Life Specialists who consider it a blessing to work with residents, study Scripture, and hold chapel services on a weekly basis.

Chaplain Rick Jones

Chaplain Rick Jones oversees our Spiritual Life program. He is assisted by Deaconess Kelly Bristow, Spiritual Life Coordinator at our Minot campus. He also works closely with Rev. Thomas R. Marcis, Jr., who serves at Zion Lutheran Church in Bismarck, and Jay Schaefer, Spiritual Life Specialist on our Fargo campus.