Scripture Union in England and Wales has appointed Rev Tim Hastie-Smith as National Director to provide spiritual leadership of the movement from September.
Scripture Union’s goal is to connect people with God and each other. We long to see:
- More Christians engaging enthusiastically with the Bible and growing in their faith,
- More churches becoming equipped to make disciples of children and young people, and
- More communities experiencing a vibrant Christian witness to children, young people and families.
Speaking after the appointment Tim Hastie-Smith said: ‘Scripture Union has an amazing history with a remarkable ability to connect people from a wide cross-section of society with God and with one another. I long to see the whole church make a fresh commitment to the next generation so that more children, young people and adults come to faith.
The opportunity is huge. As an evangelist and teacher my greatest joy is to see someone’s eyes open with fresh understanding. I long to see children and young people develop a life-changing relationship with Jesus as Lord. I am humbled, honoured and very excited by the opportunity to widen Scripture Union’s network at this time and raise its profile so that more lives are transformed by its ministry.’
Announcing the appointment Ian Marsh, Chairman of Scripture Union, said: ‘I am delighted that Tim has agreed to join the movement. He brings a track record of visionary and inspirational leadership delivered through a remarkable range of skills and experience, which will be a great asset to us as we continue to grow and develop our ministry. For the past 18 months Tim has been non-stipendiary Team Vicar of the Kempsford Parish, near Fairford in Gloucestershire and he will continue in this role alongside working at Scripture Union, which will give him valuable insights into the realities of local ministry that the movement seeks to support and resource.’
The Right Reverend Michael Perham, Bishop of Gloucester added that: ‘Tim has an orthodox biblical Christian faith, held with an open generous nature and a desire to affirm people in leading them to Christ. I rate Tim highly and I am very enthusiastic about this appointment.’
Tim studied history at Magdalene College, Cambridge and Theology at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, before being ordained and taking up a curacy at St Ebbe’s Church, Oxford. He then moved into the world of education taking the role of chaplain and Head of Theology at Stowe School and then Headmaster of Dean Close School. He has been a school governor for a wide range of schools, is closely engaged in the national educational policy debate.