Visitors to a small village in Israel marvel at how the experience has deepened their understanding and appreciation of Jesus Christ. Upon returning home, they rave about how their journey to the past has transformed their lives forever.
So, wouldn’t it be even more exhilarating to be the person who lives there year-round and serves as the village’s leader?
Mennonite Mission Network believes this is the case as it seeks an executive director for Nazareth Village. The renowned tourist destination, which draws thousands annually, is a recreation of a first century Jewish village located in Jesus’ hometown. The village blends a unique hands-on experience of presenting archeology and spirituality into an entertaining mix that educates and transforms people. In addition, the timing for the new executive director is particularly ideal as the village begins a new phase of programming and new governance structures, said John F. Lapp, director for Asia and Middle East.
The village is transitioning from an independent not-for-profit to being part of a trust that includes Nazareth Hospital and Nazareth Nursing School. The hospital represents the healing ministry of Jesus, the nursing school his teaching ministry and the village Jesus’ inspiration.
“We are looking for a visionary leader with business and ministry experience in the Mennonite church who would oversee the vision of Nazareth Village and supervise the leadership team,” Lapp said. “The partners have felt good with Mennonites in the executive director role from 1996 to 2010, and believe it makes sense to seek another for the coming period.”
Nazareth is an Arab city within Israel. Nazareth Village has also been successful in striking a neutral balance that respects different cultures and faiths. Because the project involves various cultures and ethnic groups (Jews, Palestinians) as well as religions, (Judaism, Islam and various Christian denominations), the executive director will also need to be well-versed in cultural sensitivity and skillful at mediation.
Sandy Miller, director of Church Relations for Mennonite Mission Network, noted that Nazareth Village leadership seeks someone who would serve three to four years. She said mission workers often commit to two years in similar assignments and then enthusiastically recommit because they are so enriched by their service and love the experience. The previous executive director served four years.
“Like anything, it takes time to learn the culture and people you’re working with and how best to interact with the community. Besides, with any job there’s a learning curve,” Miller said. “We only place international workers where we have invitations from partners. They know and trust the people who come through Mission Network and they very much appreciate the long term commitments that Mennonite workers have made.”
Application or request for more information should be sent to Mennonite Mission Network, “Israel/Palestine is an important world center where very interesting things are happening in the areas of Christian faith, archeology, politics, peace and justice – issues that are top-most in many Christians’ minds,” Lapp said. “You’d be giving leadership to an organization that is involved in all of those things. What could be better than that?”
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Mennonite Mission Network, the mission agency of Mennonite Church USA, leads, mobilizes and equips the church to participate in holistic witness to Jesus Christ in a broken world. Media may contact Andrew Clouse at andrewc@mmnworld.net, 574-523-3024 or 866-866-2872, ext. 23024.
