SIM New Zealand has appointed Nigel Webb as its new director. Webb is the first leader of SIM New Zealand to come out of “Generation X” —most often defined as those born between 1963 and 1978. He took the reigns in January 2007.

Speaking at the commissioning service on February 25, Webb unveiled his vision for SIM New Zealand—“Exporting Kiwi Ingenuity.”

“I believe that New Zealanders still have a key role to play in God’s mission to the world,” he said. “God has made us with Kiwi ingenuity, our No.8 wire mentality. Whether it's in the hard places of the world or in multicultural teams, this ingenuity is a strength that will help the Kingdom advance.”

Webb, along with his wife Richelle and their two boys Caleb (11) and Isaac (9) recently returned to New Zealand from Guayaquil, Ecuador. They had been serving there with SIM since 1998.

In Ecuador, the Webbs were involved in leadership development in a house church movement called La Iglesia en tu Casa. In partnership with the International Mission Board, Nigel worked in Theological Education by Extension (TEE), equipping leaders in this movement of over 100 churches.

Now, back home in New Zealand, Webb is seeking to mentor Kiwis into world mission.

Please pray:

• for Nigel as he continues adjusting to his new role and responsibilities.
• for Richelle as she takes on a new role as Editor of New Zealand's Serving in Mission Together magazine.
• for Caleb and Isaac as they adjust to their new surroundings.