Minnesota Church in Shock After Former Pastor’s Wife Arrested in Connection to His Death on Mission Trip to Africa
Beau Shroyer/Facebook; @mamashroyer/Instagram
A Minnesota church community is in shock following the tragic death of former pastor Beau Shroyer, whose wife, Jackie Shroyer, was arrested in connection with the incident. Beau, 44, was killed on October 25 while on a mission trip in Angola, where he had been working with his wife and their five children.
Lakes Area Vineyard Church, where Shroyer previously served as a pastor, announced his death and confirmed Jackie’s arrest, though details surrounding the incident remain unclear. According to the church’s statement, the family moved to Angola three years ago to work as missionaries with SIM USA, an international Christian organization focused on spreading faith and supporting communities.
The church community has been left grappling with the sudden loss of Shroyer, a beloved former pastor. Known for his dedication to missionary work and his commitment to spreading compassion and faith, Shroyer’s decision to move his family to Angola marked a deep commitment to his religious calling. “He was a person of faith and love, committed to serving others,” a church representative shared, as reported by Fox 9.
The U.S. State Department has confirmed the death of an American citizen in Angola and acknowledged reports of a U.S. citizen detained in connection with the incident. “We are aware of the reports of a U.S. citizen detained in Angola and can confirm the death of a U.S. citizen,” the representative stated, adding that the department is providing consular assistance to the family.
Specific details regarding the circumstances of Shroyer’s death have not been released, leaving many questions unanswered. The church community expressed their disbelief and sorrow, with members describing Shroyer as a devoted father and dedicated pastor who touched many lives. His sudden and violent death has been a painful blow to the congregation, which remembers him for his commitment to serving both locally and abroad.
“It’s unimaginable. The church is just in shock,” one member shared. Shroyer’s work with SIM USA and his family’s decision to live in Angola reflected his desire to make a difference on a global scale. Friends and congregation members remember him as someone who always went above and beyond in his mission work, embodying the values of kindness and faith.
In light of these developments, Lakes Area Vineyard Church has called for prayers and support for the Shroyer children, who remain in Angola as authorities continue their investigation. The church refrained from commenting further, citing respect for the privacy of the family and the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation.
As the church community mourns this tragic loss, many are left grappling with both the death of a valued leader and the shocking arrest of his wife. Members of the congregation have organized prayer gatherings and offered support to the Shroyer family during this difficult time.
While details remain scarce, the church’s focus remains on honoring Shroyer’s memory and supporting his children as they navigate this profound loss. The incident has left a lasting impact on both the local community and those who knew Shroyer through his missionary work.
