Senior Pastor Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III is taking a medical leave of absence, Friendship-West Baptist Church announced Sunday afternoon.

The church said Haynes is scheduled to have surgery following a recent medical diagnosis. The church did not state what the medical diagnosis is.

Watch NBC 5 free wherever you are WATCH HERE

Haynes is expected to spend the next several weeks recovering from the surgery.

“While this is a personal challenge, I stand firm in my faith and have complete confidence in God’s healing power,” said Dr. Haynes in the statement. “James 5:15 reminds us, ‘And the prayer of faith shall save the sick.’ 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 rec

See Full Page