GOOD NEWS: Memphis pastor who survived deadly plane crash making ‘positive strides’

The influential Memphis, Tenn. pastor who survived a plane crash that killed four church members is making “positive strides on his road toward recovery,” Harvest Church said in an update to congregants.

The church in Germantown posted the update Sunday night about lead pastor Dr. Kennon Vaughan, husband and father of five, who is also the founder of Downline Ministries in Memphis that focuses on “Gospel-centered discipleship training.”

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“Kennon continues to make positive strides on his road toward recovery,” the update said. “He had his most restful night yet last night, and showed continued positive development in his healing throughout the day. The procedure this morning went extremely well, and he is showing no signs of infection.”

Although he remains in the ICU, the church reported that his doctors are “extremely encouraged by his progress.”

“He continues to have risk for infection as he heals,” the church said. “We are grateful for the outpouring of love toward him and Kathryn, and they covet your continued prayers.”

Vaughan is currently on a liquid diet and the church discouraged members from visiting him at this time to avoid any possible infection.

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He was the sole survivor of a small plane crash in Lavaca County, Texas, KWAM reports.

The passengers who died were all from Harvest Church: Bill Garner, Steve Tucker, Tyler Patterson and Tyler Springer.

The church posted the following update after the crash:

It is with extremely heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Bill Garner, Steve Tucker, Tyler Patterson and Tyler Springer.

All were beloved members of Harvest Church and their loss currently leaves us without the proper words to articulate our grief.

As of our last report, Kennon Vaughan is in stable condition in a Texas hospital.
We ask for your prayers and kindly request that the families of all involved are given the proper space to grieve at this time.

We will provide more information as it is received.

We covet your prayers.

The worship center will be open from 6:30 to 8:30pm to gather for a time of prayer and mourning with Harvest elders, staff and fellow members.

“But we do not want you to be uniformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others who have no hope.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:13

The church previously shared that Vaughan was intubated and underwent surgery last week for “significant internal injuries.” Since then he was able to come off the breathing tube.

Pastor Jamie Trussell shared about the days following the crash and the outpouring of love and support the church has received in a sermon titled, “Suffering and Glory”

Stay up-to-date on Vaughan’s recovery via updates on Harvest Church’s website.

Caleb Parke is the SMG managing editor. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and connect with him at calebparke.com.