Ryan Shafer

Elder

I grew up in Mount Vernon, Illinois, where my parents faithfully took my siblings and me to church nearly every Sunday. After high school and college, I drifted away from regular attendance. It wasn’t until my late twenties - while seeking direction and a sense of stability - that I turned back to God. During that time of prayer and reflection, God answered one of my biggest prayers by bringing Rachael into my life through mutual friends. We began dating in 2011 and were married in 2013 by Pastor John Brunette.

Rachael had been attending Faith Lutheran Church since 2000, while I was raised in a non-denominational background. We chose to make Faith our home church because of the warm, welcoming community and the biblically grounded teaching from the pastors. I didn't learn the Lord’s Prayer until I started reciting it during Sunday services—something that has since become a meaningful part of my spiritual journey.

Over the years, Rachael and I have been active members of the church community. We’ve participated in a life group, completed the Rooted discipleship experience, and currently serve in Kids Church on Sunday mornings. I’ve also had the privilege of serving on the Leadership Board and now help facilitate training for new board members. Additionally, I’ve co-led several Financial Peace University classes at Faith, helping others grow in biblical stewardship.

We have two daughters - Madeline (10) and Audrey (7) - who bring endless joy to our lives and keep us busy with dance, gymnastics, swimming, and Girl Scouts.
Professionally, I’ve worked in the IT field for over 20 years and currently serve as a Database Administration Manager at Leidos. In my free time, I enjoy reading about history and personal finance, staying active, watching sports, and spending quality time with my family.

Ryan Shafer

Elder

I grew up in Mount Vernon, Illinois, where my parents faithfully took my siblings and me to church nearly every Sunday. After high school and college, I drifted away from regular attendance. It wasn’t until my late twenties - while seeking direction and a sense of stability - that I turned back to God. During that time of prayer and reflection, God answered one of my biggest prayers by bringing Rachael into my life through mutual friends. We began dating in 2011 and were married in 2013 by Pastor John Brunette.

Rachael had been attending Faith Lutheran Church since 2000, while I was raised in a non-denominational background. We chose to make Faith our home church because of the warm, welcoming community and the biblically grounded teaching from the pastors. I didn't learn the Lord’s Prayer until I started reciting it during Sunday services—something that has since become a meaningful part of my spiritual journey.

Over the years, Rachael and I have been active members of the church community. We’ve participated in a life group, completed the Rooted discipleship experience, and currently serve in Kids Church on Sunday mornings. I’ve also had the privilege of serving on the Leadership Board and now help facilitate training for new board members. Additionally, I’ve co-led several Financial Peace University classes at Faith, helping others grow in biblical stewardship.

We have two daughters - Madeline (10) and Audrey (7) - who bring endless joy to our lives and keep us busy with dance, gymnastics, swimming, and Girl Scouts.
Professionally, I’ve worked in the IT field for over 20 years and currently serve as a Database Administration Manager at Leidos. In my free time, I enjoy reading about history and personal finance, staying active, watching sports, and spending quality time with my family.
Family eventually drew Lisa and I back to St. Louis, where we joined Faith in 1996. We were new to the Oakville area and were looking for a church home. Almost 30 years later, we’re still here!

Over the years at Faith, I have served in student ministry and participated in many groups and studies. I have been an elder at Faith since 2006. It is through these experiences that I have developed an ongoing personal relationship with Jesus and have grown to trust Him as my Lord and Savior.

I have worked for the United States Postal Service for over two decades. My wife is on staff at Faith as the Communications Team Leader, and we are blessed to have two sons, Michael and Matthew.