“The one who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:24
Over the years, we have witnessed God’s faithfulness time and time again through the ministry of the Society of Indian Missions. As we reflect on His goodness, we are reminded that every season is guided by His sovereign hand and every transition presents new opportunities to advance His Kingdom.
One year ago, the Board of Directors extended a season of sabbatical rest and renewal to President Keith Lavery and his wife, Tasbah. It was our desire to honor their decades of faithful service and provide them with a sacred opportunity to rest after years of sacrificial leadership.
After meeting together and our annual meeting, and after much prayer, reflection, seeking the Lord’s direction, the Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Rev. Mark Becker as President of the Society of Indian Missions, effective immediately. President Becker will serve a three-year term as he leads SIM into its next chapter of ministry and growth.
Before looking ahead, however, we believe it is important to pause and express our deepest gratitude to Keith and Tasbah Lavery and their family—Alana, Cassie, Emily, and Yamni—for their extraordinary commitment to the Native communities we serve and to the mission of Christ.
For more than two decades, the Lavery family has invested their lives in Native ministry with unwavering faithfulness. Keith’s leadership over the past several years has been marked by vision, integrity, courage, and a deep dependence upon the Lord. Under his leadership, SIM experienced significant growth in missionary engagement, missionary care, discipleship initiatives, ministry partnerships, and financial support. Most importantly, countless lives have been touched by the transforming power of the Gospel.
The impact of the Lavery family’s service cannot be measured merely by programs, numbers, or accomplishments. Their legacy is found in changed lives, strengthened communities, equipped leaders, and the countless relationships they have cultivated through years of faithful ministry. We are profoundly grateful for their sacrifice, dedication, and love for the people God called them to serve.
As we enter this new season, we do so with confidence in God’s continued guidance. Rev. Mark Becker brings a lifetime of ministry experience and a deep passion for Native missions. Alongside his wife, Kristal, he has faithfully served in ministry for more than 40 years, including 18 years with SIM in both South Dakota and Canada. During his year as Interim President, Mark provided steady leadership, clear vision, and a servant’s heart that earned the confidence of the Board and the support of our missionaries and ministry partners.
We believe God has uniquely prepared Mark and Kristal for this moment, and we are excited to see how the Lord will continue to expand the reach and impact of SIM through their leadership.
As always, our mission remains unchanged: to share the hope of Jesus Christ, make disciples, and see Native individuals, families, and communities transformed by the Gospel.
We invite you to join us in celebrating the Lavery family’s remarkable legacy while also praying for President Mark Becker, Kristal, our missionaries, and our Board of Directors as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued prayers, encouragement, and faithful support. Because of your partnership, the work of the Gospel continues to advance, and lives continue to be changed for eternity.
With gratitude and anticipation,
The Board of Directors
Society of Indian Missions
