The Chancellor serves as the principal notary for the diocese, establishing the authenticity and validity of specified diocesan juridical acts, the manner in which they are documented and the manner in which the documentation that is produced will be maintained, protected and secured in the Diocesan Archives.
The Chancellor also serves the Church community through the administration of:
ANNUAL STATISTICAL INFORMATION
MARRIAGE PREPARATION POLICY
PRENUPTIAL DISPENSATIONS/FORMS
REQUESTS FOR PAPAL BLESSINGS AND PAPAL AUDIENCES
SACRAMENTAL RECORDS
SAFE ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM
Kirsten Thorstad
Kirsten R. Thorstad has served in the Diocese of Lexington since 2021. Prior to her ministry here, she served 26 years in professional ministry in the Diocese of San Bernardino, CA. Kirsten has been a Parish Life Director in a total of 5 parishes ranging in size from 12 families to 8,000 households. She is currently the Parish Life Director at Good Shepherd Church in Campton, Ky as well as the Chancellor. Kirsten holds a Master of Arts Degree in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University, Chicago and an MBA. She is in the process of completing her Doctor of Management dissertation.
Deacon John Brannen
Deacon John Brannen was ordained to the permanent diaconate in 2012 and began his ministry with the Diocese of Lexington that same year. He served for seven years as Director of Youth, Young Adult, and Campus Ministry, where he provided leadership and pastoral guidance to the diocese’s younger faithful.
Since his ordination, Deacon Brannen has continued to offer dedicated service to the Church through a variety of roles. He is actively engaged with numerous boards and commissions both within the diocese and in the broader community, reflecting his commitment to collaborative ministry and outreach.
In addition to his responsibilities as Vice Chancellor of the Diocese of Lexington, Deacon Brannen serves as Pastoral Associate at Pax Christi Catholic Church in Lexington. In these capacities, he supports the bishop, clergy, and laity in advancing the mission of the Church and fostering vibrant parish life.
(859) 293-1993 ext. 1037
