Welcome to Riverside With AJ!
About AJ
Hi there—I’m AJ Zimmermann. I’m a hospital chaplain, fly angler, and spiritual companion who writes about the quiet beauty of being human.
I currently serve as a chaplain at a critical access hospital in rural Montana, where I walk with people through some of life’s most tender moments. I am certified in palliative care chaplaincy and love my work.
Before that, I spent more than a decade teaching Bible, theology, and ministry in universities and seminaries. I’ve written for the Lexham Bible Dictionary, completed a Doctor of Ministry in Scripture, Spirituality, and Leadership, and have been shaped deeply by both clinical pastoral education and the rivers I now fish.
But this space isn’t just about credentials—it’s about reflection. It’s about asking honest questions and honoring dignity in a world that often forgets it. It’s where I share stories from rivers and hospital rooms, explore grief, grace, burnout, spiritual care, and slow transformation.
Why Subscribe?
Riverside With AJ is a space for anyone craving grounded spiritual reflection—especially if you’re drawn to gentler, slower wisdom in a noisy world. It’s for people who’ve been hurt by religion but still long for the sacred. It’s for anyone who’s ever found healing beside water or in a quiet act of kindness.
When you subscribe, you’ll receive a post about once a week—personal essays, chaplain reflections, and moments of beauty or insight that might help you feel less alone.
“Welcome to the riverside.”
Community & Commitments
This space honors the dignity of all people—especially those who have been excluded or silenced, including our LGBTQ+ siblings. It’s a respectful, inclusive community, and I’m committed to keeping it that way. Anyone who violates those boundaries will be removed, and pro-rated refunds will be offered as needed.
Want to Stay Connected?
Subscribe for free to receive new posts in your inbox. Or consider becoming a paid subscriber to support this work—and help make space for more writing, reflection, and community.
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