Church Army, a society of evangelists within the Anglican Communion, has appointed a new Director of Training to revitalise its development and implement new strategies for its mission.

The Rev Canon Sue Hope, author of Mission-shaped Spirituality and currently Sheffield Diocesan Missioner, has excitedly taken up the new post.

She has been handed the responsibility for leading an experienced team to meet the challenge of transforming Church Army's evangelism training to a mission-based learning model in a move away from residential training. She will also join the senior management team of the 125 year old society of evangelists.

Commenting on her appointment Canon Hope said, "I've always been an admirer and supporter of Church Army and I'm delighted to have been offered the job.

"I count it a huge privilege to be part of what God is doing with Church Army at the moment, and I look forward to working with the team to pilot new forms of training appropriate for 21st century pioneering mission."

Canon Hope has significant experience of training and equipping lay and ordained for mission and evangelism at diocesan, deanery and parish level and developing new strategies for mission as well as helping to pilot national training for fresh expressions.

The new director of training is a 'six preacher' at Canterbury Cathedral, which means she has been appointed by the Archbishop from among persons who have outstanding qualities as preachers.

In addition, Canon Hope is a member of the College of Evangelists, which provides accreditation from the Archbishops of Canterbury and York to evangelists in the Church of England.

Mark Russell, Church Army's Chief Executive, said he was "thrilled" to welcome Canon Hope to "such an important strategic role" within Church Army.

"Sue is a key leader in the Church of England, committed to evangelism and creating a mission-shaped church. Her gifts of vision, inspiration and her experience in evangelism will make a real impact on our future training agenda," he said.

Canon Hope begins her new post in July. She will be based at the Wilson Carlile College of Evangelism in Sheffield.