The Bush Church Aid Society (BCA) will welcome The Venerable Dr Mark Short as its new National Director in September this year.

Dr Short is currently serving as rector at St Pauls Anglican, Turvey Park in Wagga Wagga. He studied theology at Moore College before being ordained in the Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn.

Dr Short (pictured right) will replace Rev Canon Brian Roberts, who served in the position for 18 years.

Dr Short and his wife Monica are excited to be a part of the work that BCA does in reaching regional and rural communities.

“For a long time we have been passionate about proclaiming the gospel in rural areas,” Dr Short said. “There are wonderful opportunities for ministry in Australia. Under God we want to support and encourage ministry and see people come to Christ.”

Dr Short acknowledges that BCA faces many challenges but is confident that with God’s help their ministry will grow.

“There are many challenges we face,” he said. “Fly in, fly out workers in mining communities is a big one… It’s not always easy to make connections with these people and make Christ know to them. I hope that in the future our ministries in these communities as well as other parts of rural and regional Australia will grow.”

Dr Short also spoke about the future of BCA’s work with indigenous Australians.

“BCA already does great work in indigenous communities, but I am looking forward to growing and developing this ministry.”

“I am looking forward to joining the great team at BCA who are already doing so much good work in Australia,” Dr Short said. “I want to work with the team to think creatively about ministry and mission in our country.”

Ridley Principal to resign

Canon Dr Peter Adam will resign as Principal of Ridley Melbourne, in January 2012.

“I thank God for the great privilege of serving as Principal of Ridley over the last ten years,” he said. “It has been a great pleasure to work with faculty, staff, students, supporters, and the Board, to grow and develop this vital and strategic ministry. I pray that God will provide for Ridley, and continue his rich blessing on the training of men and women for gospel ministry throughout the world.”

The board acknowledged the great asset Dr Adam was to the College.

“While tirelessly teaching, preaching, mentoring and writing for a decade of students, he has also been instrumental in helping Ridley achieve financial stability, a skillful leadership team, strategic focus and an academic faculty of great strength,” said chairman Claire Rogers.

Rev Dr Tim Foster will serve as Acting Principal while the Board undertakes an international search for a new Principal.

Photo: courtesy of Mark Short