Scott Bauer, senior pastor of The Church on the Way in Van Nuys, Calif., a Foursquare congregation founded by Jack Hayford, died Oct. 24 after an aneurysm ruptured at the conclusion of the midweek service two days before. He was 49.
“It is with deep sadness and great rejoicing we announce the homegoing of pastor Scott Bauer,” a message from the church’s Web site said. “The Bauer family and the elders of The Church on the Way want to thank the host of believers worldwide who have expressed their love and sympathy.”
A graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary and Oral Robert University, Bauer was Hayford’s son-in-law and supervisor of the Los Angeles North Valley District of Foursquare Churches. He took over as senior pastor of The Church on the Way in 1999 after serving with Hayford since 1982. The church’s council has asked Hayford to lead the 12,000-member congregation.
“Scott was a respected brother, pastor and leader within our church, as well as to the body of Christ at large,” Paul Risser, president of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel, said in a statement. “The impact of this loss will be felt around the world.”
A memorial service was held Oct. 29 at The Church on the Way. Bauer is survived by his wife, Rebecca, two sons, a daughter, his parents and three siblings.
Eric Tiansay