After 15 years of service with the BIC Foundation (BICF), John Burns is announcing his retirement, effective September 2025.
“We are exceedingly grateful for John’s leadership and the ways in which he has developed rich relationships with BIC congregations across the U.S.,” says Jim Reynolds, BICF’s executive director.
John joined the BICF staff in 2010 as the Director of Advancement before transitioning to his current role as Loan Officer and Director of Operations. Most congregations know him as the point person for loan requests and BICF’s matching grants.
“It has been my honor to serve both the Foundation and the BIC community for the past 15 years,” says John. “I hope my work increased appreciation of the Foundation’s mission and awareness of its opportunities and programs available to all in the Brethren in Christ.
“I am grateful for the many relationships and friendships that have developed during that time,” he says. “While I will miss the regular interactions with our clients and staff, I look forward to the Lord’s leading in life’s next phase.”
To fill the role, the Foundation has hired Jonathan Owen to serve as Loan and Operations Officer. Over the coming months, John and Jonathan will work closely to prepare for a smooth transition in September.
“We trust Jonathan will continue vital ministry connections and find new, exciting ways for the Foundation to partner with the BIC community,” says Jim
Jonathan has served with BIC U.S. World Missions since 2012, first as lecturer and IT support at Evangelical Bible College in Malawi and most recently as Project Coordinator for the Brethren in Christ U.S. offices in Grantham, Pa. (Read Jonathan’s full bio.)
“My heart is for Christ’s Church to thrive and multiply, making faithful disciples, and seeing God transform lives,” says Jonathan. “That has motivated my service with World Missions and in my local congregation. I look forward to serving the BIC community through the mission of the Foundation, assisting congregations and ministries as they fulfill Christ’s call.”
As the BICF Loan and Operations Officer, Jonathan will work with congregations, ministries, pastors, and missionaries to offer loans that advance BIC ministry. Additionally, he will be responsible for the information technology support, safety, maintenance, and repairs at the BIC offices in Grantham, Pa.
John and Jonathan plan to attend regional conference meetings this spring and look forward to connecting with BIC ministers and leaders.