You’ll find James both authentic and approachable. He’s as comfortable talking over a cup of coffee as he is sharing the Gospel in the pulpit. As our Lead Pastor, his vision for relevant ministries allows the church to connect with people’s needs while ensuring the church’s future success.

When James preaches, he makes the Bible understandable so his listeners can apply its teachings to their life. He says, “I want people to know that if God can use me, then He can use them, too! This starts with a personal relationship with Jesus, but it doesn’t stop there. That’s why Christians need to understand the Bible, so they can grow spiritually!”

Outside the pulpit, James challenges others to serve locally and globally. He regularly leads mission trips and pastor conferences around the world.

James holds a Master’s of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, AL. He also serves on the board of Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. James began his ministry in 1990 as a youth minister and worked with teenagers until he accepted a call to the pastorate in 1996. From that time until now, he has served four churches in Georgia, Mississippi, and now Arkansas.

James is a self-professed coffee snob and a loves vacationing with his wife, Jamie. They have been married since 1995. She is his best friend, helpmate, and heart’s desire. They have four children: Madeline, Abigail, Malia, and Jay.