Seasoned missionary will soon step into MAF President’s shoes

By September 27, 2007

International (MNN) — Mission Aviation Fellowship will see a shift in leadership this coming January. John Boyd will take the place of current president Kevin Swanson.

John Boyd has already served in ministry with MAF for 15 years. He quit his successful business career in 1993 when he felt God calling him to full-time ministry. Since then, he has served in the field as pilot, CEO of MAF South Africa, and VP of ministry advancement. 

During the next few months, before officially taking on his new position January 1, his schedule will be filled with mission trips to Lesotho, Mozambique and South Africa. 

"I'm filled with humbleness, yet also with joy and excitement about the future,"
Boyd said. "We are on the threshold of such great ministry opportunities. My vision is that MAF will become even more strategic and significant in taking the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world."

Under Swanson's leadership, MAF successfully changed their location from Redlands, Calif. to Nampa, Idaho. Swanson has served with MAF since 1979 but agreed to be president in 2004 in order lead the relocation and direct ministry expansion. Formerly he had served as a pilot/mechanic, board member, and vice chairman. 

Now he is moving back to California where a parent in poor health needs his presence and where he looks forward to serving in direct church ministry.

As for Boyd, Chairman of the Board Julie Shimer has faith in Boyd's move to president.
"John's field experience will be of great value as the new president of MAF. His international perspective, along with his vision and passion, will benefit MAF for many years into the future."

"MAF is now well-positioned for expanded operations and future growth," Swanson said. "As for my successor, I've worked very closely with John, and I truly believe God
has been grooming him for his new position as MAF president."

MAF is located on 5 continents in 26 countries with 200 locations. Their pilots make
approximately 40,000 flights each year transporting supplies, missionaries and medical staff,  and conducting emergency medical evacuations.

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