ABHMS Board of Directors welcomes new officers and members beginning Jan. 1, 2026

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 01/14/2026)—American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) has announced new officers and two new members of its Board of Directors, all of whom officially assumed their roles on January 1, 2026. The elections and appointments were approved during the board’s November 2025 meeting, with the new leadership slate bringing a blend of continuity and fresh perspectives to the national mission organization.

Rev. Trevor Hyde began his term as board president, succeeding Rev. Dr. Jamie Washam, who remains on the board as a member. A strategic administrator, gifted teacher, and incisive preacher, Hyde serves as pastor of the historic Berean Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York, where he oversees church operations. Berean Baptist is part of the American Baptist Churches of the Metro New York region.

Reflecting on his new role, Hyde expressed gratitude for the faithful leadership that has shaped the board’s work and direction. “I am truly honored and excited to begin my tenure as president of the Board of ABHMS,” he said. He noted his appreciation for Washam’s service and for colleagues who have guided the organization with care and vision. Hyde also emphasized the board’s shared commitment to walking with ministry partners and communities, listening deeply, and responding faithfully to the needs of this moment.

Starting her term as board vice president, Rev. Janna Louie is the chief of staff for the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, where she oversees programs and acts as chief people officer. She brings extensive experience in faith-based advocacy and collaborative leadership.

In addition to its new officers, the board welcomed two new directors, Rev. Bianca Luna and Rev. Dr. Erica Marsbury.

Luna is a pastor at Urban Grace Church in Tacoma, Washington, part of the Evergreen Association of American Baptist Churches. Her ministry involves leadership in children’s and youth faith formation, community groups, and regional collaboration among congregations. Luna is recognized for her dedication to inclusive ministry and for fostering spaces of belonging within both the church and the community.

Rev. Dr. Erika Marksbury is senior pastor of First Baptist Church of McMinnville, Oregon, which is part of the American Baptist Churches of the Central Pacific Region. Marksbury has experience in theological education and pastoral ministry, along with a strong interest in justice, creativity, and how communities come together to find meaning through faith.

Hyde said he is encouraged by the addition of Luna and Marksbury to the board, noting that their wisdom, passion, and deep commitment to God’s mission strengthen the board’s collective leadership. He added that he looks forward to learning alongside them as the board continues its work in partnership with congregations and communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

The board also recognized directors whose terms concluded Dec. 31, 2025, offering thanks to Rev. Dr. Conley Hughes, Rev. Sanetta Ponton, Rev. Dr. Kathryn Ray, and Rev. Karen Yee for their faithful service and leadership.

For more information about the Board of Directors, visit ABHMS online.

American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.