Watch the Celebration of Life for Pastor Terry Schroeder, recorded Feb. 22, 2025.

Dear Church Family,

It is with profound sorrow and eternal hope that we share the passing of our beloved Pastor Terry Schroeder. Yesterday, while driving home from work, Terry experienced breathing complications, likely related to his cancer diagnosis. We give thanks for the medical staff in the first responders and at Jewish hospital for your valiant efforts.

By God’s grace, Elaine was able to be by his side at the hospital, along with their daughters and some of our Branches church family, surrounding him with love and prayer. Though we are heartbroken, we take comfort in knowing that Terry is now with Jesus, hearing the words we all long to hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Master” (Matthew 25:23).

Personally, my heart is broken by this loss. Terry was one of my best friends for the past 22 years—a brother in Christ who walked through countless seasons of ministry, life, and faith with me. His wisdom, compassion, and love for God and people were a constant source of strength and inspiration. This loss leaves an ache that is difficult to put into words. But it also makes me all the more thankful for God’s promises of heaven and the peace that only He can give in times like this.

We realize this news is shocking and happened so fast. Our hearts ache with the suddenness of this loss, and we know we will need the Lord’s strength and grace to carry us through. But we also know that He will use this church family to come together, love one another, and walk through this grief side by side. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff—we are here to help you as we grieve together.

Terry was an extraordinary man of God—a faithful shepherd, a devoted husband to Elaine, a loving father, and a cherished part of our church family. We are heartbroken for Elaine and their family, yet we are rejoicing that Terry is made whole and walking with his Savior today.

We wanted more time with Terry, and Terry wanted more time with his family and to see God continue building this great church community. Though his time with us has ended, we will move forward by God’s grace, carrying on Terry’s beautiful legacy of loving and caring for others.

In this time of grief, we find comfort in the promises of God from Psalm 23: 

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside still waters.

He restores my soul.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil, for you are with me;

your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Please continue to pray for Elaine, their children, and their entire family. May the Lord’s comforting presence surround them and sustain them.

As a church family, we will gather in the coming days to celebrate Terry’s life and honor his faith-filled journey. More details will be shared soon. Thank you for your prayers, love, and support during this time. Let us continue to walk together in faith, holding fast to the hope of eternal life in Christ Jesus.

In Christ’s love,

Pastor Shane