Important News from the Board of Directors
It is with much joy and some sadness that we, the U.S. Board of Voice of Christ Media Ministries, write you today. After serving as our President and Executive Director for over 40 years, Dick Papworth plans to step down from this position. He will continue to be active in the ministry as Chairman of the Board and as an advisor. We thank Dick for his faithful service and leadership over these many years.
We are confident God has been leading us, and today we are happy to officially announce that Andrew Gossard has been appointed to take Dick’s place as President and Executive Director, effective May 1. He had previously served on our board. In 2010 he joined our full-time ministry team and has faithfully served as our very capable Technology and Financial Manager. He loves the Lord and His Word, is a man of integrity, loves Iranians, passionately believes in our mission, is respected by all our staff, and has many strengths and abilities that match with our ministry goals and values.
All of us on the Board of Directors thank you for your ongoing prayers and support for the ministry of Voice of Christ Media Ministries as we continue to bring the hope of Jesus Christ to Iranians.
God Amazes Us!
By Dick Papworth
“God has led Nita and me on a wonderful journey over these 40+ years. When I first stepped into this ministry, it was tiny and the spiritual fruit was meager. Many times we felt weak and needy. But God has amazed us as we have seen Him do such a wonderful work in the hearts of both Iranians and Afghans. We can only stand back and give Him praise for what He has done and that all this has happened in our lifetime!
Over a year ago I told our U.S. Board of Directors that Nita and I thought it was best if the board would begin a search for a new U.S. President and Executive Director. I still love what I do and have a passion for our mission. However, I recently turned 76 and know I won’t be able to lead the ministry indefinitely. It will be wise if a qualified younger person with fresh ideas and more energy would step in to lead the ministry forward into the future. I’m so thankful that God has provided someone as qualified as Andy!
Nita and I don’t own this ministry. It belongs to the Lord, and we believe He will provide whatever is necessary so Iranians become disciples of Jesus Christ. We thank you so much for your prayer and financial support.”
I Love Iranians
By Andrew Gossard
“My wife, Stephanie, and I love Iranians. We have been involved in outreach to Iranians since the 1990’s while I worked in importing and manufacturing businesses. In 2010, I sold my shares in a company I had helped found and joined the staff at Voice of Christ. God has given me a love for Iranians and their unique nation.
It has been a privilege to serve Voice of Christ under Dick for nearly a decade. Witnessing the growth of the Iranian Church and hearing so many stories of salvation continues to inspire me! I’m honored to be chosen to lead the ministry forward and I am excited about new initiatives to serve the persecuted Iranian Church, as well as the needs of the many Iranians and Afghans who have yet to hear the gospel.
I am enthusiastic for VOCMM’s future endeavors. I look forward to more years of serving the Lord together with the dedicated staff and Iranians around the world who contribute through preaching, writing, follow-up, graphic design, and other gifts.”