Phil Bauman, a Canadian who led SIM Ghana for 15 years before becoming the SIM Global Director for Strategic Development in 2020, has been appointed SIM's new International Director. In an uplifting ceremony at the SIM USA offices, the new director expressed his gratitude, declaring: "If you Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? I know I could not. It is a privilege to stand here and I stand by the grace of God". "I am humbled to have been asked to take this role. I am honoured, blessed and daunted by the legacy I now get to be part of."
Joshua Bogunjoko, the former director, shared his thoughts on the transition, saying: "I have worked closely with Phil for many years, and I am convinced that he is answering God's call by taking on this role. Phil is a gifted leader who will lead this wonderful organization with courage, wisdom and distinction."
The chair of SIM International's board of govenors, Gill Phillips, added: "Phil was the unanimous choice of the Search Committee and the Board of Directors. We are delighted that he has agreed to take on this challenging role, and we clearly see God's hand in this. We pray that God will bless his leadership and look forward to seeing SIM prosper under his guidance."
Bauman reaffirmed his commitment to SIM's purpose and vision, paying tribute to his immediate predecessors - Joshua Bogunjoko, Malcom McGregor and Jim Plueddemann - who have led SIM to this day.
March 1st marked the official start of Phil Bauman's term as International Director, bringing to an end Joshua Bogunjoko's more than 10 years of service. Passing the torch to his successor, Joshua presented Bauman with a sheet of paper bearing the familiar words "Keep the main thing, the main thing". These words, left by Malcolm McGregor to Joshua when he took over, are a reminder that SIM's purpose, to share the good news of Jesus Christ, will always remain at the very heart of the organization, regardless of changes in SIM's leadership.
Joshua Bogunjoko: a decade of dedicated service to SIM International
After more than ten years of loyal service, Joshua Bogunjoko marked the end of his tenure as SIM's International Director with a moving celebration at Fort Mill, the day before Phil Bauman was appointed. The event brought together over 100 people to say goodbye.
In an emotional speech, the former director expressed his gratitude to all those who have accompanied him on his journey: "We haven't done anything by ourselves and we are so grateful to all people who have journeyed with us. (...) We want to say thank you to all those who helped us grow, who have payed with us and who have opened their homes to us."
Joshua Bogunjoko made it clear that he will still be part of SIM, and is looking forward to serving under Phil Bauman. In particular, Joshua will be helping to mentor African envoys.
The ceremony marked the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter for SIM International. As Phil Bauman takes the reins with renewed commitment and a clear vision, SIM's legacy and core values remain deeply rooted in its purpose to share the love and truth of Jesus Christ throughout the world.
Images credit : © John Dudeck