More than a year ago, I sensed that it was time to make a change.

I began to think that I should help find the next editor in chief of Worldwide Challenge magazine. While I’ve enjoyed my work, I recognized that someone with fresh ideas could help the magazine improve, while helping Cru better combine print and digital publishing, such as websites.

At the same time, I knew I should remain a Cru staff member and keep working in some communications role.

Anne Marie and I discussed it, and she agreed. My director, Mike, who oversees Cru’s communications work in the U.S., was initially reluctant, but he came around as we talked. To make that change, we had to identify the next editor in chief, and get that person prepared. Then we had to figure out what I would do next.

The first step looked clear to me. But I couldn’t make the decision alone.

I was sure that Becky Thomton should be the next editor in chief. Spotting talent in up-and-coming writers and editors is one highlight of being an editor. Becky joined our team in 2001 as a writer, and I soon knew she had a future in publishing. Over the years, Becky has traveled the U.S. and the world gathering stories for Worldwide Challenge. She served as an editor for the magazine, and then moved on to help edit Cru’s websites.

A group of Cru leaders, including Mike and me, considered a few candidates. In the end, we agreed that Becky was the best fit.

When we considered my next role, there were a few options. Then we got the news that our current managing editor would be leaving our team at the end of the year for a different ministry.

My previous job, as managing editor, was a natural fit for my personality and strengths. Might it work for me to move back to that? Mike, Becky and I pondered, prayed and planned together, concluding that it could.

Now, Becky and I are working together on the transition. We’ll both help with the magazine and with the website, Cru.org. (I encourage you to click that name and take a look.)

As Becky begins to lead our team, I’ll take some time away from the office for planning in November. That will allow her to settle into the new role while the current managing editor is still on duty.

Would you pray for us as I train Becky this month and for both of us as we take on new roles? Also, please pray for Anne Marie as she leads a Writing for Life training in Dallas on October 20-23. I’ll join her, as will Becky—something Anne Marie had planned before knowing that Becky would be the new editor in chief.

Thanks for your generosity and prayers. Let us know how we can pray for you.