Terry Dorsett, executive director of the Baptist Churches of New England (BCNE), will take a leave of absence to care for his wife, Kay, who is battling pancreatic cancer.
In an update July 12, Dorsett said while Kay has demonstrated incredible resilience through extensive chemotherapy over the last two years, the focus of her treatment is now shifting to palliative care. The BCNE Board of Directors has granted him a leave of absence beginning July 17.
‘New phase’
“As we embark on this new phase of Kay’s journey, we cannot predict how long my absence from the office will be,” he said in the update. “While I am away, I have complete confidence in the exceptional staff at the BCNE, who are more than capable of carrying the mission forward.”
Dorsett has served in New England for nearly three decades. He was a pastor, church planter, director of missions and church planting catalyst before becoming BCNE executive director in 2015.
In the update, he thanked the board of directors for their understanding and compassion and the BCNE family for their unwavering support.
“From the beginning, the outpouring of love and encouragement from our friends has been nothing short of amazing,” Dorsett said.
“Each prayer and every word of encouragement we have received have been invaluable in sustaining us during the most challenging moments,” he added. “Your support has reminded us that we are not alone, and it has given us the strength to face each new day with hope, determination and trust in the Lord.”
