Today BTI announces that our Te Taiurungi/Principal, Dr Andrew Butcher, will finish in this role at the end of 2022, after 5 years of service to our students and staff.
Dr Butcher will move to the role of Senior Associate Lay Minister in the Parish of Fendalton in the Anglican Diocese of Christchurch in February 2023, where he will also be under discernment on the possibility of becoming an ordained deacon then priest.
Dr Butcher says, “I leave in absolute confidence that BTI is in good heart, with leaders and staff who have a deep love for God, for each other, and for our students. I am very proud of what we have achieved; flourishing through the pandemic, with new programmes, new online courses, and outstanding students. Yvette and I are sad to leave BTI and Tauranga, but we are also excited about the new opportunities before us to serve God in the large, vibrant and diverse parish of Fendalton. Our hearts are open to what God is doing through this unexpected leading of the Spirit.”
BTI’s Chair of the Board of Directors, Dr David Tweed, affirmed that he and the Board are very grateful for all that Dr Butcher has brought to the role. “Andrew has shown a deep commitment to BTI’s vision and mission, a passion for our calling, and a heart for Christ that has been exceptional during these last five years. Together with Yvette, they have been pivotal to many milestones for BTI – successful NZQA Category 1 reaccreditation, renewal of our programmes, and further strengthening of our strong relationship with mana whenua and local iwi.”
Dr Tweed says, “As BTI celebrates our 30th year in 2023, we will be looking to find a new Principal who can continue Andrew’s fantastic mahi and bring their own strengths and energy to the community.” In the meantime, interim arrangements within existing leaders will ensure a smooth transition for students and staff.
“BTI’s mission remains to provide Christ-centred, biblically informed professional preparation, development and research – and we do this with a firmer foundation and clearer focus thanks to Dr Butcher’s contribution,” says Dr Tweed.
See also https://anglicanlife.org.nz/news-and-announcements/message-from-the-bishop-16-november/