Rev. Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard
Interim Pastor at Bethany
The leadership and congregation o f Bethany Baptist Church of Newark, NJ proudly announced the appointment of Rev. Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard as interim pastor this past November. As interim pastor, Dr. Hoggard provides spiritual leadership , pastoral care, and administrative guidance during the church’s transitional period as the church embarks on its pastoral selection process, with the goal of electing a new senior pastor in spring 2026. Working closely with the diaconate, trustees, and congregation, Rev. Hoggard ensures stability and continuity.
“Dr. Hoggard brings both spiritual depth and seasoned leadership to Bethany Baptist Church,” said Deacon Brenda E. Brown, chair of the diaconate. “His passion for preaching the gospel, his pastoral heart, and his understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing congregations today make him an ideal leader for this moment in our church’s journey. We are blessed to welcome him into our family.”
Dr. Hoggard shared his gratitude and vision for this new chapter, stating: “Bethany Baptist Church has a rich and historic legacy of faith, community engagement, and prophetic witness. I am honored to walk alongside this congregation as we seek God’s direction for the future. My prayer is that this season of transition will be one of spiritual renewal, unity, and renewed commitment to serving Newark and the wider community with love and integrity.”
Dr. Hoggard is a dynamic preacher, educator, and community leader known for his commitment to faithbased leadership and social impact. A longtime resident of Harlem in New York City, he has served in various ministerial and executive leadership roles in both faith and education, including most recently as executive minister of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, which he led following the death of Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III.
Dr. Hoggard is currently executive chief of staff to the president at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. He worked alongside President Dr. Anthony Munroe to launch the BMCC-Morehouse Transfer Dual Admission Pathway Program, which is an enhanced partnership between the two institutions to help strengthen the pipeline for eligible BMCC graduates to transfer to Morehouse College.
Founded in 1870, Bethany Baptist Church stands as one of Newark’s oldest and most respected congregations. Known for its commitment to community service, social justice, and the arts, Bethany continues to be a beacon of faith and hope, serving both its members and the wider Newark community
