After 41 years of faithful service among Hawai’i Pacific Baptists, Sean Lathrop moved on to the next season of life February 1. While serving in the islands, Lathrop’s resumé includes serving as pastor, teacher, director, and catalyst.

From 1983 to 1987, Lathrop served as Pastor of Waimea Baptist Church on the island of Kauai. This was his first ministry assignment after graduating from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary (now Gateway) in 1978. Later, in 1987, he moved to Oahu to work with students at Hawai’i Baptist Academy as a Bible teacher for five years.

Then, from 1993 to 2015, Lathrop took on the role of Baptist Collegiate Ministries Director, where he served and discipled college students. For 22 years, Lathrop found great joy in working with college students. “It was fulfilling to have a small part in the lives of our future leaders,” Lathrop added.
Lathrop’s final assignment was to serve church planters as a North American Mission Board Church Planting Catalyst. From 2016 to 2024, his duties included equipping and encouraging church planters throughout our State Convention. Lathrop served well as an encourager. He had a way of encouraging those who were struggling in ministry.

After reflecting on his 41 years of service, Lathrop said, “I am very fortunate to have served the churches of HPBC. I am blessed and inspired to have served such a committed people.” Lathrop added, “In all of my ministries, it was always about the gospel, telling people about Jesus and making disciples.”

Sean Lathrop is married to Teresa, who has served as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1986. Together, they have three grown children and one grand-
child. In retirement, Lathrop looks forward to spending time with family, especially his grandson. He also plans to return to canoe paddling.