Rev. Neil Blair

The Foundation for Evangelism welcomes Rev. Neil Blair as its new President. Blair assumed his new role August 1 at the Foundation’s Lake Junaluska, N.C. headquarters. He most recently served as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, S.D. Prior to his tenure there, he served 19 years in development at Saint Paul School of Theology in Kansas City, Mo. Rev. Blair is an ordained elder in the Dakotas Conference and served eight years in the local church in the Missouri Conference.

In an interview with Rev. Blair, he shares how his past has prepared him for this new leadership position, and what role he sees The Foundation for Evangelism playing in growing and strengthening The United Methodist Church.

• What do you feel has most prepared you for this role with the Foundation?

My extensive background in The United Methodist Church, leadership as a youth, work done at two United Methodist colleges, two decades as Vice President at a United Methodist Seminary, and eight years in the pulpit. I genuinely believe every step of change in life prepares you for the next opportunity.

• What about The Foundation for Evangelism helped you decide to take the position?

It was the extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in the growth and strength of The United Methodist Church through the Foundation for Evangelism. The year I was confirmed was the year that The United Methodist Church began to decline, so I have always felt some responsibility to turn that around.

• What are your goals for your first year at The Foundation for Evangelism?

To broaden the base of knowledge and support of the vision of the Foundation in order to grow and strengthen the Church and make disciples for Christ. I’d like to include all of the Church in our efforts.

• How do you think the Foundation can best challenge The United Methodist Church to focus more on Evangelism?

Through thoughtful, persuasive, creative ideas and initiatives that are centered in Christian faith, taking into account the cultural setting of today.

• Where would you like to see The Foundation for Evangelism in the next 4 years?

I hope that we will have discovered and enacted a vision so compelling that individuals can do nothing else but join the Church with excitement and become leaders themselves in bringing others to Christ.

• Is there anything else you would like to share?

I would ask that all who are passionate about the growth and strengthening of the Church through Christ might show this passion through their prayers and gifts, and to join us in enacting a great vision.