Ravi Zacharias Steps Down from Leadership at RZIM After 35 Years

Ravi Zacharias, a prominent Christian apologist and evangelist, has stepped down from leadership at Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM) after 35 years of service. The transition marks the end of an era for the organization, which has grown into a global entity with over 90 full-time speakers and 300 staff members across 15 countries. Zacharias, who founded RZIM in 1984, will remain as Chairman of the Board but will no longer be involved in daily operations. Leadership responsibilities will now be shared between Michael Ramsden, who will serve as President, and Sarah Davis, the new CEO.

Zacharias, who received Christ at 17 following a suicide attempt, began his ministry as an itinerant evangelist with the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Canada. His career has been defined by a commitment to answering questions about faith and God, a mission he has emphasized throughout his life. In 1983, after speaking at an International Conference for Itinerant Evangelists led by Billy Graham, Zacharias felt a clear call to integrate evangelism with apologetics. This led to the founding of RZIM, an organization dedicated to making a meaningful impact through the proclamation of the Gospel.

Over the years, RZIM has expanded its reach through various initiatives, including apologetics training at the RZIM Academy and the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics (OCCA). The organization also engages in humanitarian work through Wellspring International. Zacharias has often spoken about the importance of addressing legitimate questions about faith, emphasizing that it is both a responsibility and a privilege to do so.

Michael Ramsden, who will lead RZIM as President, has been a key figure in the organization for 25 years. He has contributed significantly to the development of apologetics training programs and has a background in law and economics. Zacharias expressed confidence in Ramsden’s ability to carry forward the mission of RZIM, noting that it has been his long-term desire for Ramsden to assume this leadership role.

As Zacharias transitions into a new phase of life, he plans to focus on speaking, writing, and spending time with family. His decision reflects a desire to prioritize personal relationships and continue his ministry in a different capacity. The leadership change is intended to ensure the continued strength and stability of RZIM as it moves forward in its mission to proclaim the Gospel and address the questions of a modern world.

The transition underscores the importance of passing on the faith and ensuring that the work of the ministry continues with integrity and purpose. As the organization adapts to new leadership, it remains committed to its core mission of serving God and equipping others to engage with the world’s questions about faith.

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