Joel Edwards

On 30 May 2008 it was noted that: "The retiring General Director of the Evangelical Alliance will bring his passion for justice for the poor to two new roles as he joins Tony Blair’s Faith Foundation and becomes the first International Director of Micah Challenge.

"The Rev Joel Edwards, who is also a commissioner for the Equality and Human Rights Commission, resigns from his post at the Evangelical Alliance in September, and is currently on tour presenting his vision for evangelicalism to churches around the country.

"He has been appointed as a member of the International Religious Advisory Council to the Faith Foundation, which will give advice and help to Tony Blair on the Foundation’s work and plans.

"Steve Bradbury, Chair of Micah International, said: “The board of Micah Challenge International is delighted to be able to appoint Joel Edwards as its International Director, from January 1, 2009...

"Mr Edwards, a British immigrant from Jamaica, is an honorary Canon of St Paul’s Cathedral. He was a probation officer for 14 years and the senior pastor of Mile End New Testament Church of God for 10 years.

"Mr Edwards was offered the post of General Secretary of the African and Caribbean Evangelical Alliance in 1988, becoming UK director for the Evangelical Alliance UK four years later and General Director of the Evangelical Alliance UK in 197. He received a medal of appreciation for services to Jamaica in 2003, an honorary doctorate from St Andrews University last year, and is a published author.

"More about his book and tour can be found at www.anagendaforchange.com"

• Advisory Council, Tony Blair Faith Foundation
• Board of Reference, Ascension Trust