Our Staff

Jim Edwards

Jim Edwards

Pastor

I was born and raised in Texas, where my father pastored churches in east Texas and finally in Port Arthur, Texas. It was in Port Arthur that I met and fell in love with my future wife, Gail Graham.  We both graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and attended Baylor University, getting married our senior year.  I was in business for ten years, and during that time, Gail gave birth to our four daughters, Brenda, Amanda, Julia and Melissa.  We all attended the First Baptist Church of Saginaw, Texas, where I taught Sunday School, became a deacon, and eventually the associate pastor.  After our children were born, I attended Southwestern Theological Seminary, and shortly after my graduation in May, 1992, the members of New Hope Baptist Church extended their call for me to become their pastor.  Gail and I have had the privilege of watching generations grow up in this wonderful family church.  It is our prayer that you find a church you can call home- a place of acceptance and growth.  For us and many families, New Hope is just that church.  Come see us!

Matthew Waymack

Matthew Waymack

Worship Minister

Hello! My name is Matthew Waymack, and I get the privilege of being the worship minister here at New Hope Baptist Church. My wife Hannah and I came to New Hope in early January 2023. My goal here at New Hope is to build a culture among the congregation and worship ministry team that is biblically faithful, musically excellent, and ministry driven. In 2019 I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a Concentration in Church Music and Worship Leadership from Truett McConnell University in Cleveland, Georgia. I am now pursuing my Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Worship Leadership at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. I have a great passion and love for God’s church and the people that act as the body of the church. The worship ministry team leads every Sunday through Scripture-guided worship in a way that focuses more on Christ and His word over musical style. I am positive that through this approach to our time of corporate worship, you will find no trouble participating and joining in the God-initiated dialogue between Him and us through song.

Cody Bryant

Cody Bryant

Youth Minister

Cody is married to Jaclyn and they have two beautiful children, Bleu and Grace.   Cody has a real passion for Christ, and together with his wife, an authentic love for youth.  The IGNITE youth group is challenged to get out of their comfort zone and get on fire for Christ.   Cody is a farrier and a real estate agent and does it “all for the glory of God”.  At New Hope you will find an exciting youth group with a “down-to-earth”, and fun leader.

Laura Beth Plumlee

Laura Beth Plumlee

Children's Minister

Laura Beth Plumlee has a real heart and connection with kids.  Having four children of her own, her ministry to children comes naturally and with much experience.  Our children are having so much fun learning about Jesus through the Bible. 

You will find a terrific place for your children when you choose the Children’s Ministry at New Hope Baptist Church.  Laura Beth and her team are the best!

Jennifer Fry

Jennifer Fry

Nursery Coordinator

Jennifer Fry has been serving as our Nursery Coordinator for many years, finding the confidence in new parents with their infant children.  Jennifer truly has a heart for children and their parents.  You will find attention to detail as Jennifer provides a very clean and safe place for your children to grow and develop. 

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