Pastor Eric's sabbatical will last for 13 weeks.

Various speakers over the weeks ahead who are no stranger to Brookside.
Brandon Risch is the Family Pastor at Pine Hills Church in Fort Wayne. With over 22 years of pastoral experience in diverse church settings, Pastor Brandon has a heartfelt calling to ministry that began at age 20. Growing up in Pendleton, Indiana, and now married to his wife, Candace, for 20 years with three children, Brandon's journey is guided by a deep joy and satisfaction in the Lord. Influenced by the affirming words of John Piper, "God is most glorified in us, when we are most satisfied in Him," he is passionate about teaching the Word in a way that encourages others to seek Jesus. His leadership in churches needing healing and unity has instilled a profound dependence on God.
Cal Rychener began his spiritual journey in Archbold, Ohio. An esteemed member of the Fellowship of Evangelical Churches, Cal answered the call to ministry at 17 and founded Northwood's Community Church in Peoria in 1990, leading it until 2022. His ministry emphasizes the profound truth that while many find forgiveness in Jesus, they haven't yet embraced full freedom from spiritual bondage. Cal's focus is on guiding believers to experience both forgiveness and liberation through Christ. His journey, from a childhood salvation experience to a pioneering church planter, has shaped a ministry dedicated to healing and deliverance.
David Johnson serves as the Worship Pastor at Brookside Church, where he has been leading since 2020. With over a decade of ministry experience, David's passion for authentic worship stems from his early years of leading worship in youth ministry, which led him to pursue his degree in Worship & Theology from Cedarville University. His ministry philosophy is deeply rooted in Psalm 27:4, believing that worship extends far beyond Sunday morning gatherings into a lifestyle of beholding Jesus in every aspect of life. David is dedicated to creating environments where people encounter God's presence and are transformed into living testimonies of His grace in their homes and communities. He lives in Fort Wayne with his wife Cady and their five (soon-to-be six) children. Drawing from his extensive experience in worship ministry and his heart for spiritual formation, David brings a unique perspective on cultivating authentic worship that moves beyond tradition into transformative encounters with Jesus.
John Mueller is the Executive Pastor at Brookside Church. Born and raised in California before moving to the Midwest in 2006, John's life was profoundly transformed at 17 after experiencing significant trials and seeking truth through the New Testament. This journey solidified his faith in Jesus Christ, leading him into ministry. Starting as a youth pastor, John's path took him to Winona Lake, Indiana, where he pursued a Master's of Divinity at Grace Theological Seminary while serving at Christ Covenant Church. His ministry journey continued at SonLight Community Church, evolving from Discipleship Pastor to Lead Pastor over a decade. Now, at Brookside, John, his wife, and their four children, Annaliese, Zachariah, Jocelyn, and Hazaiah, are committed to nurturing a vibrant faith community. John's story is one of transformation and dedication, where the truth and grace of Jesus have been at the core of his service.
Nate Hamblin hails from Lapeer, Michigan. Originally aspiring to law enforcement, Nate's path took a divinely guided turn to youth ministry, leading him to Huntington, Indiana, where a deep connection at Huntington University led him to his wife, Amanda. After serving in North Manchester, Indiana, Nate discovered the Fellowship of Evangelical Churches in Wauseon, Ohio, where he has been faithfully serving since 2004. His ministry revolves around the profound truth that "Faithfulness with Jesus is enough," urging believers to focus on Jesus and the opportunities He provides. Life's trials, including the loss of his father and personal challenges, have enriched Nate's approach to ministry, making him a resilient and insightful leader.
Phil Strahm's college years in north central Indiana sparked a profound calling to ministry through engaging conversations with those far from God. Now devoted to his mission, Phil is passionate about equipping believers to live and express God's love daily, breaking down misconceptions about Jesus, and guiding others to enrich their Bible reading experience. Phil dedicates himself to working with students unfamiliar with the Christian faith, inspiring them to become disciple-makers reaching their peers for Jesus.
Tom Bennardo is a four-decade veteran of ministry and spiritual formation. His experience spans the spectrum—church planter, lead pastor, mentor and coach, author, and denominational leader. He serves as executive director of church leadership and multiplication for the Fellowship of Evangelical Churches, providing training, equipping, and spiritual direction for current and emerging pastors, and is the author of the new book, Open-Hearted People, Soul-Connected Church: How Courageous Authenticity Can Transform Your Relationships, Your Community, and Your Life. Tom holds an MDiv from Grace Theological Seminary and a doctorate from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and is a sought-after speaker, seminar leader, and consultant in church leadership and organization. A New York City native, Tom is an avid sports fan who lives and (mostly) dies with the New York Mets and Jets every season. He and his wife, Marcia, have two daughters. He’s never surfed, but resides in San Clemente, California for the view.

May 25th to August 24th

Yes, we've created unique prayer prompts—one for each week of the sabbatical. These prompts align with the focus and activities of each week, allowing you to pray specifically for what Pastor Eric is experiencing.

Pastor Eric's sabbatical includes dedicated time for rest and rejuvenation, family activities, spiritual growth, and leadership development. Each week has a different focus, which is reflected in our weekly prayer prompts. Some activities may include retreats, focused study, family trips, and intentional spiritual practices.

While a sabbatical includes elements of rest and recreation similar to vacation, it is fundamentally different. A sabbatical is purposeful, structured time for spiritual renewal, professional development, and personal growth. Pastor Eric will engage in activities specifically designed to strengthen his ministry capabilities and spiritual life, following a thoughtful plan approved by church leadership.

Donations to the Sabbatical Fund will be used to help support the Dubach’s and future pastoral sabbaticals.

Donations to the Sabbatical Fund help cover costs such as:● Resources for study and development● Retreat or conference fees● Travel expenses related to sabbatical activities● Coverage for pastoral duties during absence

Your contributions help ensure Pastor Eric can fully engage in restorative and developmental activities while maintaining financial stability for his family and the church.

During Pastor Eric's absence, you can contact our team for your pastoral care needs.