Maritime Bethel at Savannah (MBS) is proud to announce the appointment of their new Executive Director, John Houchens. Houchens is an experienced leader and mentor dedicated to community outreach, Christian ministry, and growing non-profit organizations. Houchens comes to Maritime Bethel at Savannah with more than thirty years of non-profit experience. He has served organizations large and small, both here in the United States and overseas. During these challenging times of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, MBS is preparing for increased need as port traffic returns to normal levels.

Houchens holds a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry from Point University in Atlanta, GA. He first cut his teeth into ministry on the streets of Atlanta in the 1980’s where he focused on counseling and life skills training for the homeless. He transitioned into ministry at churches in both Georgia and Tennessee where he created youth mentoring programs and planned and executed successful fundraising initiatives. He then became the Executive Director of Children’s Injustice Initiative in Kampala, Uganda where he traveled extensively in developing nations working to reach highly vulnerable children and advance leaders and teams in medical care, social work, teaching, counseling, vocational training, and food security and agriculture programs. 

Houchens is eager to make an impact on the 75,000+ seafarers who call on Savannah each year from more than 50 different nations, and continue the legacy that former Chaplain and Executive Director Andy Krey has left behind.  

“I am excited about the ministry opportunity that Maritime Bethel provides – and particularly excited about the great organization that founder Andy Krey has built,” newly appointed Executive Director John Houchens said. “Andy Krey has accomplished so much for the seafarers who call on the Port of Savannah. I’m very thankful for the foundation he’s built and to be able to call on him as a trusted advisor.” 

Houchens’ wife, Debbie, is a native of Savannah. He and Debbie have been married for 38-years and have two sons in Athens, GA and Chapel Hill, NC. 

The Maritime Bethel at Savannah provides personal and practical support to seafarers who come into our port on ships from all over the world. This nonprofit is a faith-based organization providing advocacy, spiritual, physical, and emotional support. 

To learn more about the Maritime Bethel at Savannah, please visit www.maritimebethelatsavannah.org.