A Personal Letter to My Elim Family

August 18, 2026

Dear Elim Family,

With a natural mix of emotions, I am writing to let you know that after 27 deeply fulfilling years, I will be retiring from my role as President of Elim Christian Services, effective September 1, 2027. After much prayer and many conversations with Kim and the Board, I believe this is the right time for both our family and for Elim to begin this transition.

As I reflect on the incredible privilege of serving at Elim, I am profoundly grateful for God’s sustaining presence and grace. He has been, and continues to be, our ultimate foundation. Looking back over nearly three decades, I am humbled by the thousands of lives we have been blessed to equip in the name of Jesus. The Elim family is truly amazing! To the individuals we serve and to their families, thank you for allowing Elim to walk alongside you. Your trust has been one of the greatest privileges of my ministry. To our generous donors, churches, volunteers, and community partners, thank you. Your faithful generosity has allowed Elim’s ministry to flourish and has changed countless lives.

While leadership transitions naturally bring questions, I want to assure you that our mission remains unchanged. I will continue serving wholeheartedly until my final day, and I have every confidence that Elim’s best days are still ahead. The organization is strong, our Board of Directors is deeply committed, the leadership team is uniquely gifted, and our employees and supporters give selflessly to advance a mission that remains as important as ever.

To ensure a smooth transition, the Elim Board of Directors is actively overseeing the search process for my successor. They have retained a search consultant and commissioned a dedicated search committee comprised of board members, staff, and community stakeholders. Because this process will invite broad input into the selection of our next leader, I am excited to see how God will use them to guide Elim into a robust and fruitful future. I also ask you to join me in praying for our Board of Directors, the search committee, our future president, and everyone who will help guide Elim through this important season.

As we look ahead to commissioning and supporting Elim’s next leader, I offer this Scripture, which was my father’s life verse: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58

Following my retirement, I will continue to be an active part of the broader Elim family through my prayers, financial support, and involvement whenever called upon. Additionally, I look forward to using the leadership gifts and experiences God has given me in part-time ways that continue to contribute to His kingdom. On a personal note, Kim and I are excited for the opportunities to travel and cherish the extra time with our grandchildren that this next chapter of life brings.

When I reflect on these 27 years, some of my greatest memories are not milestones or accomplishments, but the privilege of watching students and adults accomplish what others once thought impossible, celebrating with families, and serving alongside extraordinary colleagues and supporters whose faith has inspired my own. Thank you all for your support, your friendship, your hard work, and your fierce commitment to those we serve. Serving with you has been one of the greatest privileges of my life and career.

I close with the very words my predecessor, George Groen, used to commission me to Elim nearly thirty years ago: “Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” – Psalm 115:1

Thank you for faithfully engaging in Elim’s mission so that these words will remain true of our organization always.

In gratitude to God for your partnership,

Bill Lodewyk