Ervin Stutzman, executive director of Mennonite Church USA
From the Executive Board of Mennonite Church USA:
The Executive Board of Mennonite Church USA has appointed Ervin R. Stutzman of Harrisonburg, Va., to a second three-year term as executive director of Mennonite Church USA. The new term began Jan. 1, 2013. The appointment was made at a Dec. 18 board meeting following a review that included input from executive conference ministers, members of the cabinet and the Executive Board.
The review showed widespread appreciation for Ervin as a strong servant leader in his role as chief staff person for the national conference. There was significant affirmation for his being present in area conference settings across the country, his listening skills, his passion in preaching and his continued focus on the Purposeful Plan, which was supported by delegates at the Pittsburgh 2011 Delegate Assembly to be the plan and focus of the national conference. Ervin provided leadership in developing the plan after conversations across the church at the beginning of his first term. The plan helps focus our common vision and what we want to do together as a national conference in Mennonite Church USA.
It was noted that Ervin’s humble spirit, strong listening skills and communication with all parts of the church are building trust as he cares about all parts of our diverse church. Others noted his commitment to anti-racism, planting peace churches, and increasing revenue required to fund the vision of the Purposeful Plan; his assembling a quality and highly motivated staff; his engaging in helpful conversations about the 2013 convention location in Phoenix, Ariz.; and his management style that is collaborative and empowering.
Persons see Ervin bringing a wonderful combination of spiritual vitality, biblical rootedness, executive vision and relational connectivity. Ervin is understood as leading us to the heart of Jesus and keeping us focused on our primary vision of healing and hope. The Executive Board in making the appointment noted that Ervin is the ideal person to lead us at this time in the life of Mennonite Church USA.
During his second term, Ervin plans to emphasize the Purposeful Plan, giving particular attention to youth and young adult ministry, planting more peace churches and exploring ways the church is engaging people of other-than-Christian faith.
Dick Thomas, moderator, stated, “The review of Ervin Stutzman showed broad and deep support and appreciation for his leadership ministry in all parts of our church. It was with joy that the board took unanimous action to appoint Ervin R. Stutzman to a second three-year term that began Jan. 1, 2013. We call the church to prayer for Ervin as he begins this term, leading us in our vision of healing and hope and specific plans as outlined in the Purposeful Plan.”
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