A Dallas megachurch pastor will be taking a temporary medical leave of absence following a recent medical diagnosis.
Friendship-West Baptist Church announced on Sunday that Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III is scheduled to undergo surgery and will spend the coming weeks focused on recovery.
Dr. Haynes has served as the senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas for 40 years, growing from 100 members in 1983 to over 13,000.
In the interim, Dr. Haynes has appointed Rev. David Malcolm McGruder, executive pastor, to assume pastoral and ministry responsibilities.
"While this is a personal challenge, I stand firm in my faith and have complete confidence in God’s healing power," said Dr. Haynes. "James 5:15 reminds us, 'And the prayer of faith shall save the sick.'"
The church has not said what type of surgery Dr. Haynes will undergo or what he has been diagnosed with.
"I am profoundly grateful for your prayers, love, support, understanding, and respect for my privacy during this time, and I look forward to returning after my recovery."
There is no word on when he will return.
In the meantime, the community is invited to send pictures, videos, and well-wishes to Dr. Haynes using Kudoboard. The church will also release periodic updates via the church's official spokesperson, Alisha Trusty.