November Search Announced for Missing Pastor

Randall Scott Vander Weit,  the son of missing Christian Reformed Church pastor George Vander Weit, says another full-scale search will take place on Saturday, November 2 to find any trace of his father, who disappeared on July 5.

Vander Weit Made his announcement on Facebook, 12 weeks after his father left their home in Rochester, Mich.  on his bicycle without his wallet or cell phone. He says the search will occur “barring that my dad is found before then and weather permitting.”

He is asking people to  meet at 9 a.m at the Rochester Fire Department, 277 East 2nd St., 48307. The Rochester police chief will also take part in the search.

After conducting several land and air searches of wooded areas within several miles of Vander Weit’s home, police have been unable to find any trace of  Vander Weit.

Vander Weit had been released from a mental health facility just prior to his disappearance. Police have reported he may be a danger to himself.

Vander Weit is a member of Han-Bit Korean CRC in Rochester Hills. Prior to his retirement, he served churches in Michigan and Ohio.

Vander Weit is well-known in the CRC community, having been a delegate to the church’s annual synod many times. He was an outspoken advocate for women serving in ecclesiastical office.

A recent posting on the website said, “Thanks for the update. We are still with you all in prayer ...Our hearts are heavy for you all, but know that our God who is able to do more than we could ever imagine has your Dad and all of you in the palm of His hand. He will never leave or forsake you....and neither will we...sorry we can't physically help, but our prayers are yours.”