July 20, 2021

Redeemer Lutheran Church
3606 S. Schafer Road
Spokane Valley, WA 99206

Dear Redeemer Friends and Family,

I have the great honor to share the very good news that Pastor Andrew Bayless has accepted our Associate Pastor call to serve at Redeemer. As Pastor Dave shared with us on Sunday, God’s timing is perfect. Pastor Drew, Ashley, Judah and Kaden are coming to Redeemer at a very exciting time in Redeemer’s history. We can feel the Holy Spirit working through our congregation and believe Pastor Drew has been called to Redeemer for 'such a time as this!’’ 

Pastor Drew anticipates moving to Spokane in early September. He and Ashley are actively looking for a home to rent in the Spokane Valley until the housing market cools down a bit. If you happen to know of a 3 bedroom-2 bath or 2 bedroom-2 bath + office available for rent, please call our Church Office or connect with Pastor Dave.

In the meantime, the Bayless family has asked for us to pray for them as they follow the call of the Holy Spirit to the Spokane Valley. Please join me in lifting up the Bayless family and praying specifically for:

  • The Bayless’ current congregation, Saint Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Louis. 
  • The Bayless’ friends and neighbors in St. Louis.
  • The speedy sale of the Bayless’ current home and a new place to call home in the Spokane Valley.
  • Judah, who will begin Kindergarten at Redeemer while saying goodbye to good friends in St. Louis.
  • Kaden, who will need to adjust to a daycare setting.
  • Ashley, who will be working remotely from her co-workers at Lutheran Hour Ministries.
  • Drew, that the Holy Spirit prepares his heart, mind and body for Redeemer’s pastoral role.
  • The Bayless’ family in Texas and the Midwest who will now be far away from Drew, Ashley, Judah and Kaden.

To these prayers, I would also ask God to protect the Bayless family as they make the big move to the Spokane Valley and are warmly welcomed into our Redeemer family. 

Our call process has been a great example of walking in faith. Trusting God every step of the way. This said I’d like to personally thank the Call Committee, chaired by Larry Scott and Bill DeReu. In December 2017, Larry gathered Maria Devenport, Michelle Buchanan, Reese Rountree, Robin Panattoni, Susan Baldwin and Tyler Kennedy as the original Call Committee. The group held its first official meeting on January 4, 2018. This group faithfully met over the next 3.5 years adding Bill DeReu, Cheryl Hull, and Josh Jensen to the committee. Never did the group waiver, knowing that God’s plan would unfold and it would be good.

It is an honor and privilege to share news of Pastor Drew accepting our call. I invite you to connect with me, Pastor Dave or Bill DeReu with any questions. Thank you for keeping Pastor Drew, Ashley, Judah and Kaden in your prayers. We look forward to seeing them soon!

With Abundant Blessings,
Gary Hutchens
President
Redeemer Board of Directors