New World Missions board meets, sets priorities
Filed Under: World Missions
The newly restructured World Missions board met for the first time, Oct. 4-6, in Milwaukee, Wis. The five board members elected by convention include Rev. Philip Koelpin, chairman; Mr. Danny Wehmeyer; Dr. Robert Anderson; Rev. Howard Mohlke; and Mr. Ray Solofra.
Previously the board was comprised of 13 members, including two from each administrative committee. A proposal, endorsed by the board and adopted at synod convention, streamlined the board to its five current members—none of which are members of an administrative committee. As a result, the board will be able to make more objective decisions and the administrative committees can function independently while providing a grassroots input.
“Even though there’s a different board now, we’re committed to keeping the lines of communication open between the board and the administrative committees, who serve as liaisons to the fields,” says Koelpin.
Members of the administrative committees reported to the board at the meeting, immersing the new members in the work being done around the world. “One of the most exciting things right now is what’s going on over in Nepal and Pakistan,” says Koelpin. “We don’t actually have expatriate missionaries there, but we’re serving thousands of people in those two countries through literature.”
Looking forward, he hopes the board will continue to manage resources efficiently and effectively: “By the grace of our Lord, we will be able to extend his kingdom. Because that’s what it’s all about: reaching as many people as possible with the means he puts at our disposal.”
