The Board of Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) Australia and New Zealand has announced the resignation of National Director, Bernard Toutounji.
Mr Toutounji leaves the ACN after more than eight-and-a-half years of dedicated service in support of the suffering Church around the world.
In a statement, the ACN expressed its sincere gratitude to Mr Toutounji for his leadership, commitment and contribution during his tenure as National Director.
Mr Toutounji 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.
ACN National President, Paul Woods, thanked Mr Toutounji 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,” he said.
In response, Mr Toutounji said, “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 has moved to assure benefactors, clergy, and supporters that ACN’s activities and commitments will continue uninterrupted.
To ensure continuity and stability, the Board has appointed Lukas Rajnoch, Director of Engagement, as Acting National Director.
“The Board has every confidence in Lukas and the broader team,” Mr Woods said.
“Through this transition we remain focused on serving our benefactors and strengthening ACN’s work both here and in the communities we assist overseas.”
A formal recruitment process to appoint a new National Director will commence shortly.
