Pastor Emeritus Fred Bates was the pastor of The Bible Church of the Lakes from its founding in 2005 until his retirement in September 2017.

He previously served as the pastor of Fredericksburg Bible Church for 18 years. Prior to these ministries, he was a registered pharmacist who had completed a 30 year career with Eli Lily as a regional marketing manager for two regions. 

Fred and his wife Anne are now at home with the Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:8)