Passing the Presidential Baton

Over the past thirty-three years, Rick has seen how God has faithfully prepared him every step of the way for each “next season” of life God had in store. In 1997, he married his college sweetheart Naomi. They have two adult children, Grace and Eli, and currently make their home in Lancaster, PA.

During the next decades, Rick and Naomi served in camping ministry, pastoral ministry, Christian higher education, and the global mission of training Christian leaders on five continents. They have also both worked in the health care sector, Rick as lead of an MRI neuroimaging team and researcher for Alzheimer’s Disease medications, Naomi in a Christian chiropractic practice.

Dr. Rhoads also continued his education, earning a Master of Arts from Columbia Biblical Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from George Fox Evangelical Seminary. In 2005, he joined the faculty of Lancaster Bible College and Capital Seminary and Graduate School. As professor and director of student ministry, he traveled extensively with both students and faculty in LBC’s education abroad and missions outreach. In 2015, he became chair of the church and ministry leadership department.

Rick’s wealth of knowledge and wide variety of ministry service over the last thirty-three years are just a few areas where God was preparing him in advance for the presidency of BCM (see also BCM Commissions New President, BCM World, Winter 2022). He shares: “As I reflect upon these beautiful seasons, I can see God’s grace in using Naomi and me throughout each season as well as transforming us for works yet to come, particularly in BCM International. Among these significant life soul preparation pieces have been a parallel passion for health care and pastoral ministry. Unique to both fields are empathy, compassion, and caring for others in need, all vital qualities for any leader of a global Christian ministry organization.”

So what brought Dr. Rick Rhoads into the BCM global family? Esther Zimmerman’s passionate heart for reaching children was one major catalyst. During a meal together, she pointedly asked him if he had ever considered working with BCM or applying for the presidential position.

His initial response was a definite “no.” But at the installation ceremony, Dr. Rhoads shared how God had been working on his heart in this area long before the opportunity of serving with BCM presented itself. During a trip to Israel while on staff at LBC, Rick heard a Palestinian Christian explaining his strategy for peace by bringing together Israeli and Palestinian youth. The strategy was simple: soccer.

Sharing a soccer ball between children of these two conflicting people groups proved a surprisingly unifying tactic. It didn’t matter if the children were Israeli or Palestinian. They could at least agree on a game of soccer. Bringing children together through a game also allowed them to see each other as teammates and friends, not enemies. The children in turn carried this message home to their families on both sides of the racial/political divide.

“Peace,” summarized this Palestinian believer, “is possible in Israel through the children of the next generation.”