Berrien Springs, MI — Monday, March 31, 2026 — Adventist Frontier Missions (AFM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dwight Nelson as its new board chair.

Born in Tokyo to missionary parents, Pastor Nelson brings a lifetime of global and pastoral experience to the role. He has served in ministry for 50 years, including 40 as lead pastor of Pioneer Memorial Church. In addition, he is widely known as the speaker for the New Perceptions television program and as a prolific author. He and his wife, Karen, are the proud grandparents of three girls. Pastor Nelson brings continuity to the role, having previously served as an AFM board member for more than 14 years.

AFM also expresses its deep appreciation to Bruce Bauer, who is stepping down as board chair after dedicated service. Dr. Bauer will continue contributing to AFM’s mission as a standing member of the board.

In addition to this leadership transition, AFM is actively working to strengthen its governance structure by adding seven new board members, expanding the board to its full complement of 15. Once finalized, the new members will be announced in Adventist Frontiers magazine and published on the leadership page of the AFM website.

AFM is also in the early planning stages of several strategic organizational enhancements; all aimed at refocusing on its mission and vision. These include a comprehensive overhaul of its missionary training program, the reassignment of John Holbrook as director of the training department, and the appointment of Laurence Burn as “AFM Ambassador,” representing the organization at speaking engagements. These initiatives are currently under development and reflect AFM’s forward-looking goals as it seeks to strengthen its effectiveness in frontier mission work.

AFM remains committed to maintaining a clear and unwavering focus on reaching the unreached. In alignment with this priority, the organization is undertaking a strategic restructuring of its international offices to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness. As part of this process, the European office is currently undergoing restructuring, while the South American office will be temporarily paused. These decisions are being made with careful prayer and thoughtful strategic planning, ensuring that AFM continues to pursue its mission with excellence while stewarding God’s resources with integrity.

Media Contact: James Arkusinski, AFM Communication Director

• Twitter