The Rev Andrew Nixon has been appointed the new Director of Mission for Anglican Retirement Villages (ARV).
He replaces Chris Edwards who is now Bishop of North Sydney.
Mr Nixon is best known as the Executive Director of the Diocese’s “Connect 09” campaign. He has since been the Director of Youthworks' Year 13 programme and more recently Principal of Youthworks College.
“It has been a difficult decision to leave Youthworks College as there are exciting times ahead”, Mr Nixon said, “but the time is right to recruit a leader for the next decade. Year 13 is in good hands and will continue making a significant contribution in the life of our churches.”
As for his new challenge at the other end of the of the age spectrum, Mr Nixon says "for youth or the elderly, the message of Christ is the same."
“The Australian Population is ageing – we know that – and as people move into their later years it is a critical opportunity to consider the big questions of life. Not just those making the transitions, but their families and carers as well”, he said
“ARV is an important mission field, touching thousands of people – be they residents, clients, families or staff – who may otherwise have no contact with the message of Christ. The leadership of ARV is very much committed to the mission of Jesus, and the gospel possibilities are very significant.”
“I am looking forward to supporting the chaplains, pastoral care workers and general staff as they care for people every day and to working with the ARV leadership as we navigate an exciting period ahead.”
ARV Chief Executive Rob Freeman says his new Director of Mission has "a wealth of experience in management in a variety of contexts and under God has an enviable record of achievement within the Diocese."
"When combined with his obvious passion for seeing the name of Jesus known, this makes him a great fit for ARV, as we seek to ensure the love of Christ is not only expressed through the work of our Chaplains and Pastoral Carer, but infused into and evident in all aspects of our care and services” Mr Freeman said.
Mr Nixon, who is also active in Defence Forces ministry as a chaplain in the Royal Australian Navy Reserve, will take up his new position in mid November.
