January 24, 2021

Dear Faith Church Family,

This has been a difficult season for each of us as the Faith Church family. Much of the stress has been carried by Pastor Derek and the rest of the Elder Team. Because of this burden, and out of our care for Derek and his family, we are gifting him a season of respite, approximately 8 weeks away from his shepherding responsibilities here at Faith Church. This respite leave, which begins January 24th, will provide Derek and Amy time and opportunity to rest, care for their kids, and seek refreshment from the Lord. Additionally, they will pursue care, coaching and counseling from some great people who understand the unique stresses and difficulties of pastoral ministry.

(Update Letter Continues Below)

Please join us praying for the Olson family. Our hope is that this proactive time away will be fruitful in many ways, allowing them to recover, be replenished and strengthened as they return refreshed to serve Jesus by serving Faith Church.

Thank you for joining us in making this respite possible, a grace-gift for Derek and his family. We believe in caring well for those who serve us.

We know these days have been hard for many of us. We are planning upcoming times of prayer to our faithful God both for every person of our church, as well as our pastors and staff, and we your elders. We’ll be sharing more details in days to come.

Prayerfully and lovingly,

Faith Church Elder Board

Questions You Might Have:

How can we pray for the Olson family?
Please pray that the whole family would grow in their relationship with Jesus, that would have opportunities to love and enjoy one another, and that they would find peace, comfort, and strength in our great God. And be assured Derek and his family, as well as the elders, will be praying for you.

What does this mean for the ministry of Faith Church? God will continue His good work in and through the ministry of Faith Church during this time! As always, our pastors will teach us from God’s Word each Sunday. Our staff and elders will continue to lead and care for us. And, as usual, God calls each person in the Faith Church family to continue doing their part through serving, praying, giving, caring, worshiping and more!

What if I see the Olson family around town? Can I contact them?
You are certainly welcome and encouraged to greet them and care for them as you normally would. We do, however, ask you to avoid bringing any church-related details, concerns, or questions you have to them. Instead, please direct those to other staff members or the Elder Team.