UCCF update from Simon Day, Chair of the Trust Board

Dear friends,

We trust that you have enjoyed the Easter weekend, celebrating the sufficiency of Jesus’ death and transforming power of his resurrection. Over the last few months students in CUs have been bold in sharing this wonderful news. Please join us in rejoicing that students up and down Great Britian have come to know and trust in Jesus and have joined with brothers and sisters in celebrating Easter.

Below you will find a message written by Simon Day, Chair of the UCCF Trust Board, which includes a message from Richard Cunningham.

You will read that Richard has decided to conclude his employment with UCCF to take up the offer of an immediate three-month sabbatical from ministry. His last day of employment with UCCF was on Easter Sunday.

This week the UCCF Executive is meeting to reflect and plan for the coming season of CU ministry. Please join us in praying for Richard and family, as well as this ministry, that many more students would be equipped to be bold in sharing the gospel and through them many more would be added to the Kingdom.

In Him,

Ben Harding, Mary Comont, Peter Dray, Tim Rudge
UCCF Directors

Since announcing his departure, Richard has intentionally and gradually been handing over key responsibilities to allow a smooth transition. After Easter, most executive-level discussions and strategic planning will understandably be focussed on the following academic year (2024/5).

In light of all this, Richard formally stepped down from being on staff on March 31, and in recognition of two decades of service to UCCF, has accepted the Trust Board’s offer of a three-month sabbatical.

This will enable him to step back from the responsibilities of running an organisation and have the space to plan, pray and prepare for the future.

We are thankful for a high level of interest in the Chief Executive role and hope to appoint over the summer. Until then, Richard’s responsibilities will be shared by the Executive Team.

Part of Richard’s final message to staff, via the internal Transmission newsletter, Richard said: “Having worked with hundreds of staff in the last 20 years, I thank God for each of them. I am especially mindful of any staff who have left UCCF before they wanted to. May I repeat what I said in Transmission (UCCF Staff Email on March 18th): ‘If a Staff Worker is enjoying their job and valuing all that is good about being part of a team involved in vibrant mission, to leave that role before you want to can provoke genuine grief and deep sadness. We are deeply sorry for any instances when we have failed those individuals and caused hurt.’

“Let’s pray that this precious Fellowship of students, staff and supporters will be strengthened and renewed as UCCF anticipates a new academic year with a new Director at the helm. CU witness - students reaching students for Christ - will always have a special place in my heart and prayers. May the Lord richly bless you. Richard”

The Trust Board value your continued prayers for the appointment of the new CEO. We shall announce details of the new person as soon as we are able.

Simon Day

Chair UCCF Trust Board

April 2, 2024

The above was emailed to UCCF supporters on 2 April 2024. This news was also shared with UCCF Staff.