Drew Erickson, pastor of Travis Avenue Baptist Church (TABC) in Fort Worth, Texas, has resigned from the church after being arrested for allegedly driving under the influence with a child under 15 in the vehicle, as well as illegally possessing a weapon.
The arrest occurred on Friday, March 3, and Erickson posted bond the next morning, paying $2250 in fees.
TABC elder Larry Thompson delivered the Sunday sermon at the church’s contemporary service on Sunday, March 4, with fellow elder Jim Smith delivering the sermon at the traditional service. In his last appearance in those services on Feb. 26, Erickson mentioned that Thompson and Smith had also “pinch hit” for him in the pulpit the previous week when Erickson said he was sick.
Neither elder made mention of Erickson’s arrest from the pulpit.
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On Tuesday, March 7, the elder board of TABC sent an email to church members announcing that Erickson had resigned “effective immediately.”
“We assure you that Drew was not fired and that no improprieties have occurred at TABC. We love him, as you do, and we will miss him terribly,” the email read. “We also assure you that TABC will continue on in worship and service. There will be Biblical preaching every Sunday. The ministry staff will continue to work and serve. The elders will begin the process of finding a new Lead Teaching Pastor.”
Attached to the email was Erickson’s resignation letter, in which he expressed “deep regret.”
“Over the last twelve months and more recently, it has become clear that there are things I need to work on personally, and I believe causes me to need a season of rest from the responsibilities of ministry,” Erickson wrote.
Erickson went on to commend the church’s elders and ministry staff.
“I know they too will be disappointed, but I’m confident the Lord will continue to bless our church with their very best efforts,” Erickson wrote. “It’s now time for me to step away to love my kids, my wife, and most of all to find a place of rest. My prayer is that I would be able to draw near to the Lord in this new season and seek a wholeness that comes through Him.”
