WASHINGTON — Neville Callam announced his intention to retire as general secretary of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) on Dec. 31, 2017.
Callam, a Jamaican, made history when he was elected to the position in July 2007 during the BWA Annual Gathering in Accra, Ghana, as the first African-American to hold the position. Since its founding in 1905, all previous general secretaries were American or European.
Callam led the organization through the financial crisis of the Great Recession with minimal dislocations and impact on day-to-day operations. He also worked to streamline the administration of the BWA office by employing relevant technology to improve BWA functions while minimizing cost.
In response to Callam’s announcement, BWA President Paul Msiza said, “You (Neville) are one of those gifts from God for the Church. I have been touched and encouraged by your deep faith and commitment to God and to the mission of the Church. Your hard work and sacrificial service describe your deep commitment and love for BWA.” (TAB)
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