On June 30, 2015, Andrew Ryskamp retirement marked the conclusion of a distinguished career of dedicated service and faithful leadership with World Renew, an international organization working alongside communities around the world to respond to disasters, overcome poverty, and build resilient futures.
For more than 40 years, Ryskamp served people facing poverty, disaster, and injustice with passion and compassion. He helped lead World Renew’s efforts to strengthen communities in North America and around the world.
A Legacy of Global Leadership and Service
Ryskamp began his World Renew journey in 1974 as an agronomist serving in Bangladesh. He later became Field Director in the Philippines and temporarily served in the same role in Sierra Leone.
After returning to the United States, he was appointed Director of Domestic Ministries, overseeing fundraising, Disaster Response Services, and the North America Ministry Team. Of his more than four decades of service, the final 17 years were spent as World Renew’s U.S. Director.
In addition to his leadership at World Renew, Ryskamp held several significant voluntary and elected positions. Most recently, he served as Board Chair of both the Accord Network in Washington, D.C., and the U.K.-based Integral Alliance. Through these roles, he helped expand World Renew’s influence among international Christian organizations and humanitarian networks while supporting the organization’s continued growth.
Andrew Ryskamp Retirement and World Renew’s Growth
Throughout his career, Ryskamp guided World Renew through periods of change, challenge, and celebration. His servant-hearted and Spirit-led leadership helped strengthen the organization’s mission and impact.
One notable milestone came during the agency’s 50th anniversary in 2012, when he helped lead the transition from the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee (CRWRC) to World Renew. While the change was significant, it resulted in a name that more clearly reflected the organization’s work in community development and disaster response across dozens of countries worldwide.
“I have indeed been humbled by all the recognition for simply doing what God has laid on my heart to do,” said Ryskamp. “Ministry to those in need is at the heart of the Gospel. It is meant to transform both the intended recipient and the benefactor. The recognition of ministry accomplished is a praise offering to God. It is the Body of Christ recognizing that together we are addressing the things that break God’s heart and so also ours.”
Ryskamp was also a strong advocate for World Renew’s integrated approach to addressing poverty and hunger. He championed partnerships with local churches and community organizations, helping people recognize their God-given dignity and build on the strengths and resources already present within their communities.
This approach has enabled individuals and families to move beyond extreme poverty and overcome the injustice and oppression that often accompany it, creating opportunities for lasting transformation.
“I praise God for how those that the world considers poor have touched my life and faith, and also the life and faith of our churches and supporters.”
Celebrating a Faithful Legacy
While Ryskamp was uncertain about what retirement would bring, he expressed a desire to continue serving the church in some capacity.
“In ministry family and friends are critical. A worldwide ministry of disaster response and community development requires travel, and there is a cost to that. The sacrifice of my family, accommodating an accumulation of approximately 10 years of nights away from home, is a gift from them I will always carry as a debt to be repaid. The accountability and prayers from friends and church family remains a source of motivation and encouragement. You cannot do this journey alone.”
World Renew and the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) celebrate Andrew Ryskamp for his years of service to God, to World Renew, and to the church. World Renew, a connected organization of the CRCNA, is grateful for Ryskamp’s faithful leadership and the impact of his ministry over more than four decades. His legacy of dedication, humility, and faithfulness continues to be reflected in transformed lives and stronger communities around the world.
Editorial Note: This article was originally published in June 2015 and has been updated for readability, accessibility, current organizational language, and web standards.
