Aid to the Church in Need Australia and New Zealand Announces Leadership Transition

The Board of Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) Australia and New Zealand has accepted the resignation of National Director, Mr Bernard Toutounji, following more than eight and a half years of dedicated service in support of the suffering Church around the world.

On behalf of the Board, staff, volunteers and benefactors, ACN extends its sincere gratitude to Bernard for his leadership, commitment and contribution during his tenure as National Director.

Bernard led a period of significant growth and transformation for ACN. Under his leadership, annual fundraising and benefactor numbers doubled, operations formally expanded into New Zealand, and more than $50 million was raised in support of suffering and persecuted Christians.

National President, Mr Paul Woods, thanked Bernard for his contribution.

"Bernard has served ACN with dedication, professionalism and a genuine commitment to those we support. On behalf of ACN, I thank him for his service and wish him every success and blessing for the future."

Bernard expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to have served ACN.

"It has been a profound joy to lead ACN. I have had the privilege of acting as a bridge between thousands of benefactors and the suffering Christians they support through their prayers and financial gifts. I have been continually inspired by the faith and generosity of so many ordinary Catholics who make this mission possible.”

While leadership transitions mark the beginning of a new chapter, the Board wishes to assure benefactors, clergy, and supporters that ACN's activities and commitments will continue uninterrupted.

To ensure continuity and stability, the Board has appointed Mr Lukas Rajnoch, Director of Engagement, as Acting National Director. Lukas is a valued member of the ACN leadership team.

The Board will shortly commence a formal recruitment process to appoint the next National Director, seeking a leader who can continue to strengthen ACN's presence locally while advancing its international work for suffering Christians.

"The Board has every confidence in Lukas and the broader team," said Mr Woods. "Through this transition we remain focused on serving our benefactors and strengthening ACN's work both here and in the communities we assist overseas."

Media contact: Jemimah McMurray ([email protected])