Memphis, TN — The IM board met on Sunday, July 18, 2021, during the National Association of Free Will Baptist (NAFWB) Convention for a called summer session to address several proposals from the IM Leadership Team. Members present in person were Chairman Jeff Nichols, Vice-Chairman Rodney Yerby, Secretary Mark Price, Casey Cariker, Rick Cason, Will Harmon, Darren Walker, Janice Banks, and Cameron Lane.
General Director, Clint Morgan, Rob Conley (CFO), and Directors Curt Holland, Danny Gasperson, Neil Gilliland, Kenneth Eagleton, and Don Matchett were present. Daniel and Shelby Culwell joined via Zoom from the field in Japan. Daniel and Kate Speer as well as Jack and Ashley Ketteman joined in person in Memphis, TN while attending the NAFWB Convention.
The following proposals were presented and approved during the session:
- Though not pursuing career status at this time, Allison will be allowed to visit her key supporting churches and individuals until December 31, 2021, with appropriate expenses being covered by her account.
- After a discussion and vote from the IM board, Jonathan and Michelle Chereau will serve another “two-year internship” in France as leaders at the St. Sebestian church.
- Daniel and Shelby Culwell, Jack and Ashley Ketteman, and Daniel and Kate Speer will transition to career missionary status to serve in Japan.
- New Life Church Planting Fund was established as an IMpact Project for the New Life Church re-plant in Sapporo with the Bishops and Speers.
The newly approved career missionaries will begin fundraising immediately to fulfill their career budgetary needs. Prayerfully consider giving and partnering with them monthly. Pray for those who will be entering into language school as they begin the coming years of their career missionary terms. Japan is in desperate need of the gospel and IM is committed to answering the call.