Miracle Stand with Shelli Bates Against Cancer

Dear Friends, Family, and Church Community,

With heavy hearts, yet unwavering faith, we share that our beloved Pastor Shelli Bates has been diagnosed with stage 4 liver and colon cancer, which has also spread to her lungs and pelvic area. This news has deeply shaken her family, friends, and church family, but we stand together, trusting in the miracle-working power of God.

On January 5th, John and Shelli stood before the congregation they have pastored for 21 years, sharing they would not receive a salary from Freedom for one year beginning February 1st. They remain the lead pastors and wanted to be obedient to what they felt the Lord was requiring of them. Little did they know of the diagnosis Shelli would receive three weeks later, precluding her from her secular salary.

Shelli has dedicated her life to serving others, offering love, guidance, and unwavering faith to all who have crossed her path. Now, she needs our help. As she faces this battle, she will not be able to work, and the medical expenses and living costs will be overwhelming. We are rallying together to ease this financial burden so that she and her family—John, Nehemiah, Eden, and Will—can focus fully on her healing and recovery.

How You Can Help

Donate – Any amount, big or small, will make a difference in covering medical bills, treatments, and essential expenses.

Pray – We believe in the power of prayer. Join us in standing on God’s promises, declaring healing, and contending for a miracle in Shelli’s life.

Share—Please spread the word to your friends, family, and church communities. The more people who join us in prayer and support, the greater our impact will be.

We serve a God who is greater than cancer. He is the Great Physician, and we are placing our hope in Him. Thank you for your generosity, prayers, and love during this time. Together, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus in Shelli’s life.

With faith and gratitude,

Michael Holmes and Mandy Owen

(Associate Pastor and Finance Director of Freedom)

Special Note: Go Fund Me charges a 2.9% transaction fee, if you feel led to give more to cover this amount, it would be greatly appreciated.