About the Chaplain

Rev. Lorrie C. Reed, M. Div., Ph.D., founded the Rivertree Christian Chapel to re-envision discipleship in the age of technology. Throughout her long career, she has worn many hats. Her formative professional experiences include service as a secondary school teacher, educational administrator, curriculum director, researcher, university professor,  and consultant for systemic change.

She was called into ministry and ordained in 2017. Since then, she has served as the Associate Pastor of Christian Education in a UCC church, the Executive Director of the School for Ministry, and a Hospital Chaplain through the Advocate Healthcare System.

She has recently retired from pastoral ministry and is currently cultivating her gifts as a Christian educator and author. Dr. Reed has published thirteen books, including two recent novels: Deep River Crossings and Witness in the Dust.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in English education from Southern Illinois University, a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Illinois – Springfield, a master’s degree in theological studies from McCormick Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity from Chicago Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Research Methodology from Loyola University of Chicago.

Dr. Lorrie nurtures a passion for healing, wholeness, and intergenerational resilience among people experiencing turbulence. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and has lived in Chicago with her husband for over five decades.

About the Chief Technology Coordinator

James R. Reed III is Director of Technology and Chief Information Officer for Rivertree Christian Chapel. Jim has a unique background in computer science. He worked for almost 30 years with mainframe computer systems, including analyzing business problems using systems analysis, testing, and developing large mainframe systems, and managing information systems programs in mission-critical, criminal justice-related applications. He was trained at some of the leading computer science programs in this country. In 2002, Jim retired after a 26-year career with the Illinois State Police, during which he served in various capacities, including Bureau Chief. That same year, the Agency honored Jim with the Meritorious Service Award for his work with the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a project consultant with the NCIC 2000 project. Jim possesses a bachelor’s degree in Administration of Justice with a minor in Computer Science and a master’s degree in Social Justice Professions Administration.