A Statement from Pastor Shane Lawson - May 16, 2026

For every congregation I have had the privilege to serve, I have always committed myself to honesty, integrity, and transparency in both life and ministry. Scripture reminds us in Ephesians\ 4:25 that believers are to “speak every man truth with his neighbour.” Because of that conviction, I believe it is important to provide clear and truthful answers to several questions that have been asked following my resignation.

My desire is not to create division or stir controversy, but rather to provide clarity while maintaining a Christlike spirit. Gossip, assumptions, and false accusations do not honor the Lord or strengthen His church. The Bible teaches in Proverbs 6:16-19 that sowing discord among brethren is displeasing to God. Therefore, this statement serves as my testimony and response regarding recent events.

1. Why did you resign as pastor?

Over an extended period of time, there were continual disagreements between myself, as the pastor and under-shepherd of the church, and certain veteran leaders regarding the biblical operation and direction of the church. After much prayer, counsel, and repeated attempts to address these matters privately and peacefully, it became evident that we could not come into unity concerning what I believe to be a proper New Testament church model.

The Bible teaches in Amos 3:3, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” In good conscience, I could not continue serving in a ministry structure that I believed conflicted with biblical principles regarding church leadership and function.

2. Why did you resign remotely instead of in person?

My original intention was to address these matters publicly with the church body during the previously scheduled business meeting on Sunday, May 17, 2026. However, after receiving counsel from trusted pastors and spiritual mentors, and after learning of additional leadership meetings and decisions taking place without pastoral involvement, I was advised that returning under those circumstances could potentially create further conflict and division within the congregation.

Scripture teaches in Romans 14:19 that we are to pursue “the things which make for peace.” My decision was made with the intention of protecting both my family and the church body from further unnecessary turmoil.

3. Why did you choose not to attend the meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026?

I believed the appropriate setting to address church-wide concerns was the already scheduled congregational meeting on Sunday, May 17, where the entire body could hear and prayerfully consider the matters together.

After several months of unsuccessful private attempts to resolve these concerns, and with another leadership meeting being organized without my agreement or participation as pastor, I believed it was wisest not to attend. My decision was made prayerfully and for the purpose of avoiding additional confrontation and confusion within the church.

The Bible teaches in 1 Corinthians 14:40 that “all things be done decently and in order.”

4. Was there anything that could have prevented your resignation?

At the beginning of these concerns, I believed reconciliation and restoration were possible if significant biblical changes were made regarding church leadership structure and authority.

My conviction has always been that the New Testament model presents pastors as spiritual overseers, while deacons are called primarily to servant ministry. Acts 6:1-4 demonstrates the servant role of deacons, while Hebrews 13:17 speaks of pastoral oversight and accountability before God.

I also believed the church needed a renewed focus on missions, discipleship, and spiritual growth rather than placing greater emphasis on maintaining traditions or physical matters alone. Unfortunately, after many conversations and efforts toward resolution, it became clear that these differences would not be resolved.

5. Would you consider returning as pastor?

No. After much prayer, counsel, and consideration, I believe this chapter of ministry at the church has concluded permanently.

I hold no bitterness toward anyone, and I sincerely pray for the church’s future health, unity, and spiritual growth.

6. What are your plans moving forward?

After twenty-seven years in ministry, this has been one of the most painful experiences my family and I have faced. The emotional strain of recent events has also contributed to several health concerns, and we believe this is a season in which we need rest and healing.

At this time, I do not plan to return to a pastoral role. Instead, I will focus on expanding the ministry God allowed me to found, His Vision Ministries, with an emphasis on evangelism, biblical teaching, online ministry outreach, devotions, sermons, and community partnerships.

My heart remains committed to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and encouraging believers during these challenging days. As Scripture says in 2 Timothy 4:2, we are to “preach the word” faithfully in every season of life.

7. Recommendations for the church moving forward

The following recommendations are offered respectfully, prayerfully, and with sincere concern for the future spiritual health of the church:

1. Establish a fully biblical leadership structure.
   Church leadership should reflect the New Testament model, where pastors provide spiritual oversight and deacons serve the congregation humbly. 1 Peter 5:2-3 warns leaders not to lead as “lords over God’s heritage.”
2. Support and strengthen future pastors.
   Bi-vocational ministry carries unique challenges. Churches should provide reasonable expectations, adequate rest, encouragement, and support for those serving in ministry. Even Jesus Himself withdrew periodically for rest and prayer. Mark 6:31
3. Prioritize missions, discipleship, and spiritual growth.
   Churches must continually evaluate whether traditions or preferences have become more important than fulfilling the Great Commission. Matthew 28:19-20
4. Allow pastoral leadership to function biblically.
   Pastors carry spiritual accountability before God for the church and should be allowed to lead prayerfully and biblically while remaining accountable to Scripture. Hebrews 13:17
5. Consider a season of transitional leadership.
   A transitional pastor may help guide necessary organizational and spiritual adjustments to strengthen the church’s future direction and unity.

In closing, I want to express sincere gratitude to those who loved, prayed for, and supported my family throughout our time of ministry. We cherish the many meaningful relationships and memories that were formed.

My prayer is that God will bring healing, unity, revival, and renewed spiritual focus to everyone involved. As believers, may we all strive to “endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).