Xplore appoints a new Programme Leader

25 August 2009

Church Army has appointed Lizzie Wallace as the new Programme Leader of Xplore - its Global Gap Year programme for 18-25 year-olds.

Lizzie succeeds fellow Church Army Evangelist Phil Clark, who launched Xplore two years ago. Phil has been appointed the National Director Designate of Church Army New Zealand, and is moving to Auckland in a few weeks' time.

Officially appointed to the post in June, Lizzie has just returned from Soul Survivor, where she was delighted to find new Xplore recruits (see Church Army news story).

Church Army's Chief Executive Mark Russell said: "Lizzie brings huge energy, enthusiasm and a real commitment to young people. She is an experienced Evangelist, who has a real heart to see young people released into ministry. From September, Xplore will be based in Sheffiel, and the Xplore Programme Leader will be part of our Mission Based Training team. Lizzie will continue to be based in Wadsley Parish, and lead some of the youth ministry there as well."

Xplore enables young Christians to train and work for 14 weeks in the UK, before spending up to 6 months at a frontline placement in either the UK, Kenya, USA, Jamaica, Canada or Australia. The scheme runs from September each year, and people can register their interest at the Xplore website.

When asked about her appointment, Lizzie said: "It is a stunning privilege to be offered this new post. My experience undoubtedly brings me to the conclusion that walking at any stage alongside a young person in their journey is a true blessing, not simply for one person but for the variety of communities and groups that the young person is part of. In recognising the many qualities our young people bring to the table, Xplore is enabling and equipping the church to experience a Jesus-focused model of raising leaders that is healthy, robust and challenging. To be part of Church Army's vision for equipping 'church' is exciting and scary, but I am thrilled to be given the opportunity."