Rev. Chesna

Reverend Chesna Riley was born in the Texas Panhandle but claims Colorado City, Texas as her hometown.  After graduating from Colorado High, she attended Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene to study theatre and sociology. Chesna got her Master of Divinity at Phillips Theological Seminary.  She was commissioned in ministry in the Disciples of Christ in 2011 and ordained in 2022.  Chesna has served as a youth minister and co-pastor for a combined 15 years in Abilene before moving to Dallas.  In ministry, Chesna focuses on trauma-informed ministry and theology.  She also loves studying Biblical Hebrew and working on translation.

Chesna loves sports and attending live events.  She is an avid knitter and crocheter, and enjoys reading.  She also enjoys playing pool and has competed in the American Pool-Players Association World 8-Ball tournament in Las Vegas twice.  Her favorite title is “aunt” and has recently become a great-aunt to the most wonderful little Ellie.  Chesna’s family is spread out across Texas, from Lubbock to Colorado City to Queen City.