Dear Partners in Ministry:

Just over a year ago, we began the work of restructuring our Bega Kwa Bega partnership. With the phasing in of administrative and financial systems and strategic direction, we hope to position the partnership for continued strength that will endure long after the Rev. Don and Eunice Fultz retire later this fall. In the last year, dozens of individuals have assisted in this effort. The changes will be formally launched in September with the formation of the Iringa Committee--the governing body that will give oversight and help shape direction--and by the hiring later in the fall of the Director of Bega Kwa Bega, who will carry on the strong relational component of this partnership and provide financial and administrative oversight.

Today we begin our search for the Director of Bega Kwa Bega by posting the position (PDF) and the job description (PDF) on the synod website and on other synod websites through the ELCA. We will accept applications until August 30, begin interviews in September, and seek to have the director in place by November 1. The initial work of the Director of Bega Kwa Bega will include orientation by the Iringa Committee and staff in the Office of the Bishop and travel to Iringa for an extended period beginning in January 2014.

Download job posting (PDF) 

Download full job description (PDF) 

While we laid out plans, an initial timeline, and preliminary budget last fall, the restructuring has been far more complicated than we anticipated, and we have been making adjustments and revisions to the plan along the way. Leaders on our synod council have said that we should expect this restructuring to take two or three years because of the complexity of the partnership. We ask for your patience and prayers as we continue our journey with this process, and I encourage you to be in touch with Beth Helgen, who is coordinating the restructuring, the Rev. Gary Langness, chair of the Iringa Committee, or me if you have questions or concerns.

Grace and peace,

Peter Rogness

Bishop