Our Staff
Jim Edwards
Senior PastorI 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!
Tyler Smith
Associate PastorTyler and his wife Jessica have 3 beautiful children: Ryleigh, River and Reese. Since joining New Hope in 2015, Tyler has served in the children’s and youth ministries as well as being a Deacon. In 2025 Tyler felt called to the Gospel Ministry and became New Hope’s Associate Pastor in February 2026. In addition to being licensed, Tyler is currently finishing his degree in Christian Studies/ Christian Leadership. In his down time Tyler loves to hunt, fish, and spend time with his family. Tyler’s favorite Bible verse is Romans 8:28.
Chris Nash
Music MinisterBorn & raised in northwest Louisiana, I gave my life to Christ at 15 at church camp. While in college at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA, I surrendered to the ministry. I moved to Fort Worth to attend seminary at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary where I met my wife Kimberly. We now have 4 kids, Andrew, Mason, Emma and Noah.
I have been blessed to serve at churches in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Texas over the past 20 years. Most of that time has been spent in student and recreation ministry, but I am so excited to now be with New Hope as the Music Minister and work with so many wonderful people.
Tim Lockhart
Senior Adult MinisterRev. Tim Lockhart is a native of Virginia who has served in many different ministry roles, including missionary, Minister of Music, and Senior Pastor. Tim and his lovely wife, Natalie, have traveled extensively across America, helping plant new churches and sharing their gifts through music and ministry. Tim currently serves as Minister of Senior Adults at New Hope Baptist Church, a role he truly loves!
Luke Gille
Young Adult MinisterLukus Gille has been an active member of New Hope Baptist Church since 1999. He currently serves as a Deacon and Young Adult Minister. Lukus and his wife, Misty, have two children, Samantha and Dylan, a son-in-law, Ethen, and a grandson, Lincoln, on the way.
Lukus and Misty have been actively involved in the church for many years, serving children, youth, and young adults. Investing in children and their families is a priority for their family and ministry. Although both work outside the home, Lukus and Misty strive to faithfully balance their time between their family, careers, and serving the Lord and their church family.
Andrew Anderson
Youth MinisterMy name is Andrew Anderson. I have grown up attending New Hope, and have served as Youth Minister since 2025. For some time as a youth I lived a prodigal life, but Jesus saved me and welcomed me as the father did in Luke 15. Now, as Youth Minister, my goal is to share the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ, and to expose the worldly lies Satan uses to drag teenagers away from the Lord and towards destruction. I aim to equip and encourage them to “not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Rom 12:21)
Jessica Smith
Children’s MinisterJessica Smith has a deep passion for guiding kids in their faith. Before stepping into this role she gained experience in early childhood leadership. She served for many years as the Assistant Director of a local childcare center.
Jessica holds a strong belief that a child’s spiritual journey begins early. She focuses on making church a joyful, engaging and secure place for families.
Jessica is married to Tyler our church’s Associate Pastor and together they have 3 children, Ryleigh, River & Reese. Their first hand experience raising kids fuels their dedication to supporting parents and building a family-centered ministry.
Jennifer Fry
Nursery CoordinatorJennifer 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.
