Curtis Riskey, CBA's new executive director, is undaunted by the challenge he faces leading the retailers group through changes in the industry.

"This is a challenging time as we see it. However, God sees something completely different. In fact, His work will continue and His will be done," he told Christian Retailing when his appointment was announced last month. "I just want to figure out how we can be a part of what He will continue to do. Our challenge is to marry what we do to be in line with His goals, and then we will be successful."

Riskey answered questions about his thoughts and hopes as he took up the reins, in an interview for Christian Retailing's May digital edition, available online now.

The 43-year-old told how he has missed day-to-day involvement in BASIC Books and Cafe in Oshkosh, Wis., the store he opened in 2000, since joining the CBA staff in 2007.

"I truly miss the people and relationships," he said. "I miss being able to talk with our customers/pastors and find out how God is moving in their lives and our community. It truly energizes me to hear the stories of what God has done and is doing."

Riskey, who had served as interim executive director since the resignation of former President and CEO Bill Anderson, last October, added: "I miss talking with our team members and finding out what is going on in their lives, as many have been college students trying to figure out what direction to go into with their ministries/careers. I miss hearing about how lives have been redeemed and how people have come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior."

Read the complete interview in the May digital edition of Christian Retailing at the magazine's Web site.

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