CONCORD, CA (September 13, 2013) – The Pacific Southwest Conference Board announced today that Associate Superintendent Wayne Carlson will serve as interim superintendent.

Efrem Smith said on Monday that he was stepping down as superintendent to become president and CEO of World Impact, a ministry that focuses on urban needs.

The search process for a permanent superintendent will commence soon with the expectation that a nominee will be named prior to the PSWC Annual Meeting in April 2014, said Stanley Long, conference president.

Carlson has served as associate superintendent for twelve years. “We are grateful to Wayne for his openness to this call and his service to the Evangelical Covenant Church and the Pacific Southwest Conference,” Long said. “ “Please pray for Wayne and his family as he steps into this new role.”

Click here to read the official announcement that was sent to churches of the Pacific Southwest Conference.