Leadership

Dean Kendra Wilde

Dean Kendra Wilde

Dean & Rector

A Ministry Rooted in Faith, Unity, and Community

Dean Kendra Wilde is an ordained pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) who serves as the Dean and Rector of St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral.

Her leadership highlights the historic Called to Common Mission agreement, which allows ELCA pastors and Episcopal priests to be shared across both traditions.

Her ministry bridges two traditions and focuses on deep spiritual formation, pastoral care and outreach throughout the Helena community and surrounding region.

Biography

Early Life and Ministry

Early Life and Education

Dean Kendra is a longtime religious leader in Montana. She completed her undergraduate studies locally, graduating from Carroll College in 2001.

Discerning a call to ministry, she attended Wartburg Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa, earning her Master of Divinity in 2008.

Pastoral Ministry and Ecumenical Leadership

Parish Ministry

Served as the Associate Pastor at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Helena, Montana, from 2008 to 2021.

Ecumenical Work

Led as the President of the Montana Association of Christians/Churches from 2017 to 2020, fostering unity across denominations.

Synodical Strategy

Worked directly with the Montana Synod of the ELCA as a Transition Coach and Pastor to guide congregations through leadership changes.

Ministry at St. Peter’s Cathedral

Wilde initially stepped into the cathedral community as its Interim Rector. Following a successful period of transition, Bishop Marty Stebbins announced her appointment as the permanent Dean and Rector of St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral.

Her ministry bridges two traditions and focuses on deep spiritual formation, pastoral care and outreach throughout the Helena community and surrounding region.

Personal Life

Dean Kendra lives in Montana with her husband, Dr. Ben Spiger, and their two children.

“The church is strongest when it becomes a place of belonging, compassion, and shared purpose.”