Following the recent retirement of Pastor Graham Allcock, who faithfully served as President of the Welsh Mission for the past five years, the British Union Conference (BUC) Executive Committee has voted Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook to serve as Interim President of the Welsh Mission until the upcoming BUC Session in July 2026.
Pastor McKenzie-Cook brings significant leadership experience to the role. For the past three years, he has served as Associate Executive Secretary of the British Union Conference, while also providing oversight of the Welsh Mission in his capacity as Welsh Mission Executive Secretary. In this role, he has worked closely alongside Pastor Graham Allcock, supporting the administration and mission of the field. This close collaboration has given him an understanding of the work, challenges, and opportunities within the Welsh Mission, positioning him well to provide continuity of leadership during this transitional period.
In his new role, Pastor McKenzie-Cook will work closely with pastors, departmental leaders, and church members across Wales to ensure continuity in ministry, mission, and administrative leadership until the Union Session convenes later this year.
The British Union Conference has also expressed deep appreciation for the leadership and service of Pastor Graham Allcock and his wife, Pauline, whose ministry has contributed significantly to the life and mission of the Church in Wales. During his tenure as President, Pastor Allcock provided steady leadership, pastoral support, and encouragement to congregations across the Welsh Mission, helping to strengthen the Church’s witness and ministry throughout the territory.
Commenting on the appointment, BUC President Pastor Eglan Brooks said: “With more than a decade of pastoral ministry experience, Max brings a valuable blend of pastoral insight, executive leadership, and governance expertise to the role. His qualifications in law, theology, and business have supported his service across church, charity, and corporate settings, including trustee and advisory bodies in the UK.
“We look forward to his leadership during this interim period and invite the Church to join in supporting him and the Welsh Mission in the months ahead.”
As Pastor McKenzie-Cook begins his interim leadership, members across the Welsh Mission are invited to support him in prayer as the Church continues its mission of sharing the gospel and serving communities throughout Wales.