ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Robert C. Vickers left his position as director of chaplaincy evangelism at the North American Mission Board on Dec. 31, according to a statement issued by John Yarbrough, vice president of evangelism.
Vickers came to the then-Home Mission Board (now NAMB) in 1996 as director of military chaplaincy and was promoted to team director in May 1998. He previously served more than 20 years in chaplaincy with the U.S. Army.
Yarbrough, in his Jan. 20 statement, said, “It is not NAMB’s policy or practice to discuss personnel matters with those not directly involved. However, Bob Vickers is a tremendous Christian gentleman and his love, support and desire to equip chaplains is without question. Our prayers go with him for a great future in ministry. He will continue to have many friends at NAMB and be a part of the Southern Baptist chaplain family.”
Vickers, in a statement issued to Baptist Press later in the day, said, “I have loved serving the gifted and selfless chaplains and counselors endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention for the last six and one-half years. These individuals and their families are some of the real heroes of our faith, and they possess a Kingdom-mindedness that is virtually unparalleled in our convention. People matter to them, and it has been a wonderful privilege to represent them. My prayers and fondest hopes shall continue to be with our chaplains for all the days ahead.
“I shall forever be grateful to God for the opportunity to work with the dedicated, talented and self-giving chaplaincy staff at the North American Mission Board,” Vickers continued. “They constitute the finest team a person could ever hope to lead. I feel very fortunate to have been part of that team.
“My family and I wait patiently and with expectancy to the opportunities God will open for future service. When one door closes, he opens another. We are seeking his will and know that he will provide for our every need.”
Yarbrough said the North American Mission Board “continues to be committed to endorsing and assisting Southern Baptist chaplains as a key part of impacting North America with the gospel. In the 21st century we believe that chaplaincy will be more important and have more impact than ever before.”
No decision has been made about filling the position Vickers had held, Yarbrough said, adding that recommendations can be mailed to him at NAMB, 4200 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30022 or e-mailed to [email protected].
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