Rev. Dr. J. Mark Lawson is our church’s longest-serving pastor.  He first came to the United Church of Christ in Bayberry in 1995.  He previously served churches in Kentucky, Indiana, and Arkansas as Pastor, Associate Pastor, and Minister to Youth.  “Pastor Mark” earned Master of Divinity and Ph.D. in Theology degrees from Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.  In addition to serving as pastor, he is an adjunct professor of religious studies at LeMoyne College, and teaches in the New York School of Ministry, an alternative ministry preparation program operated by the New York Conference of the UCC. View the Pastor's BLOG!

Joan VanDuser, our Director of Music Ministries, leads the Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Singers, and our Bell Choir.  She also provides piano and vocal music support at our worship services each week.  Joan holds a degree in music business with a concentration in piano from Mansfield University in Pennsylvania.

Jannie DeWees serves as Minister to Children at United Church of Christ in Bayberry.  She is Commissioned by the UCC in ministry to young children.  Jannie holds a degree in elementary education from Oklahoma Baptist University, and previously taught 4-year-olds in our nursery school.  Jannie develops programs specifically for children grades K-6, including children’s worship.  She also serves as a resource for our children’s Christian Education classes and the confirmation program for 7^th and 8^th graders.

Bob Welcher, our Director of Ministry to Seniors, is a long-time member of our congregation who has developed a pastoral identity with senior citizens.  A former public school principal, Bob brings a strong administrative background to his work, as well as a special compassion for older adults.  Bob visits our senior members in their homes and in hospitals, and develops programs which promote fellowship and education around issues faced by seniors.

Craig Zellar serves as Director of Ministry to Teenage Youth. He is currently a student in the New York School of Ministry. Craig leads teenage youth gatherings twice each month, and develops, with input from the youth, programs that promote worship, service, and fellowship. Craig is also a resource for our high school Christian Education class and the confirmation program for 7^th and 8^th graders.

Office Manager The Office Manager position is being filled by our church officers at this time. One of our volunteers will be in the office Monday-Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (The office is closed on Fridays in July and August.)