[1]RICHMOND, Va. (BP)–The International Mission Board’s presidential search committee continues to narrow down its field of candidates to select the organization’s 11th president. The committee has requested that Southern Baptists set aside March 13 as a day of prayer and fasting to ask God to direct their path.
Though search committee chairman Jimmy Pritchard preferred not to specify the number of remaining candidates the committee is considering, he said they have come to the “most crucial aspect in our search for the next leader of IMB.”
“The choices will be very difficult from this point on,” said Pritchard, senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Forney, Texas.
“As God continues to narrow our focus, we remain dependent upon the leadership of the Holy Spirit and the prayers of God’s people in this process.”
The committee received recommendations from more than 270 people and compiled a list of 74 possible candidates. The 15-member committee was appointed in September following Jerry Rankin’s announcement that he will retire as IMB president, effective July 31.
“We’re committed to getting it right and getting God’s choice man,” Pritchard said. “Thank you for your partnership as we embrace these great days of opportunity with the confidence of God’s approval and leadership.”
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Compiled by IMB staff.
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