The Ascent Steering Council is pleased to announce they have selected and affirmed Chris Backert to become Ascent’s National Movement Leader. He will be giving shape to Ascent as it enters a new phase of growth. He will also continue to serve as the National Director of Fresh Expressions US along with this new role.

“The time has come for us to take Ascent to the next level,” commented Wayne Faison, BGAV executive director. “I believe that Chris is the person to help us do just that. He is a proven movement leader who has been successful in keeping our BGAV family connected with our faith-kin across North America.”

In response to the announcement of his new role, Chris articulated, “These are unprecedented times, and I believe that also means we have unprecedented opportunity to carry the historic gospel into a world so greatly in need of the good news of Jesus and his kingdom. I have long believed and often said that BGAV has a special 'charism' in helping to pull together like-minded and warm-hearted Christians for this unique season in salvation history. I’m grateful to the Ascent search committee and Steering Council for their support and also to the Fresh Expressions team for their willingness to travel this new path with me.” 

“Over the last 15 years I’ve known Chris,” Wayne continued, “there are two things that stand out: his zeal to see our local churches thrive and his passion to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. I’m excited about what God is doing through Virginia Baptists for such a time as this.”

Learn more about Ascent at www.ascentmovement.org.

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