By now it’s likely you have learned of the tragic and unexpected passing of
Elder Tom Bender early this morning as a result of a motorcycle accident on his
way home from preaching the Wednesday evening service here at World Harvest Church.
Joni and I are grieving with you today over this tremendous loss.
He was not only a fearless minister of the Gospel, but also an encourager and leader
to everyone associated with this ministry. He was especially devoted to his students
at Valor Christian College, and the messages I’ve seen from around the world
just a few short hours after his entry into his eternal reward testified of the
tremendous legacy he left in their spirits.
Grief over Elder Bender’s loss is natural and appropriate. But it is also
an occasion for praise! I am thankful to God that Elder Tom Bender was part of my
life for 23 amazing years. He served us so selflessly, so vigorously and so faithfully.
God used Him mightily! We cannot understand in this life why he was taken from us,
we simply do not have all the answers. So we are satisfied to trust and lean on
God’s amazing grace.
Today is a day for us to remember Elder Bender and spend the day in prayer for his
loving and devoted wife, Barb; his daughters, Candace King and Courtney Bender and
son-in-law, Justin King.
It’s the families wish that there be no formal
funeral.
As an expression of sympathy and support, memorial contributions may be deposited into Chase account number 997152350 (ABA routing: 044000037).
Condolences and contributions by check written to "Tom Bender Family" can be mailed to the address below, and we will make sure the family gets them:
World Harvest Church
℅ Elder Tom Bender Family
PO Box 100
Columbus, OH 43216
614-837-1990 ext. 312
We respectfully invite everyone to attend the regularly scheduled service at World
Harvest Church on Sunday, Oct. 9
th at 10am where we will be honoring
Elder Bender’s life and legacy.
God is our comfort and peace at
all times – even and especially when
a loved one precedes us to heaven. I wish I could embrace you right now and cry
with you over the loss of our amazing Elder. And I know you are joining me in praising
God for the opportunity to have known him.
Yours for the Harvest,
Rod Parsley
Pastor