Jamaica Baptist Union elects Thomas as new president

The Jamaica Baptist Union recently concluded its 176th General Assembly, during which Reverend Davewin C. Thomas, pastor of the Burchell Circuit of Churches, was installed as president.

The decision was affirmed during a business meeting on February 20 at the Boulevard Baptist Church in St Andrew.

Thomas brings more than 40 years of service to his new role. His extensive experience within the Baptist Union includes two terms as vice president and one term as president-elect, underscoring his deep commitment and proven leadership within the organisation.

Thomas has served as pastor for the Stokes Hall Circuit of Churches and was recognised for 20 years of exemplary service to the Burchell Circuit in 2025. He is also a superintendent minister for Trelawny and St James.

“We believe that the assembly was led by the Lord in electing Reverend Thomas,” stated General Secretary Reverend Merlyn Hyde Riley. “He is a model of spirituality, consistency, and integrity. We pray for God’s enabling as he serves the JBU as president, at such a time as this.”

Explaining that he views the presidency as a call to ministry at another level, Thomas emphasised that he does not regard his recently endowed position as a promotion or an ascent up the social ladder.

“I feel both honoured and humbled by this call and pray that I will be able to please my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, by faithfully carrying out the duties and responsibilities that have been entrusted to me,” said Thomas.

In addition to Thomas’ election, the Assembly affirmed a new slate of executive leaders, which included two vice-presidents: Georgia Crossman-Small, a member of the Hanover Street Baptist Church and Reverend Karl Henlin, pastor of the Gregory Park Circuit of Churches, who has given over 30 years of service to the denomination, including service as president.