Pastor Leroy James

1984 - PRESENT

Pastor Leroy James is a native of Florence, South Carolina.  He began his union with the Friendly Church of God In Christ in 1965, under the leadership of the late Cleveland Wood, Sr., founder.  He served in the church faithfully as Youth Director, Choir Musician, Sunday School Superintendent, and many other positions.  He also served in the U.S. Army from 1968-1970.

Pastor James received his B.S. Degree from Paine College in 1967 and his Masters of Education from the University of South Carolina in 1975. 

He was called to the ministry in 1976.  In 1980, Elder Wood appointed him as Assistant Pastor of Friendly and he was ordained as an Elder in that same year.  He served in that capacity until the death of Elder Wood in 1984.  Bishop J. Howard Dell appointed him Pastor of the Friendly Church of God in Christ during the 1984 Workers Meeting.

Pastor James was appointed Superintendent of the Augusta District in 1994 and in 1995,Bishop Mark Walden appointed him as First Administrative Assistant of Northern Georgia Second Jurisdiction COGIC.

Pastor James has been a member of the C.H. Mason Board of Trustees since 1997. He also served as president of the 8^th District Association of Georgia Counselors from 1993-1995. 

In 2000, the Richmond County Board of Education awarded Pastor James "The Optimist Achievement in Education Award" for outstanding contributions in education.  In June of that same year,  Pastor James' strong desire to serve in the ministry with fervor, devoting all energy to the "cause of Christ" climaxed, and he retired from the Richmond County Board of Education after 33 years of service.This gave him more time to care for and lead God's people.

He is married to Missionary LaDoris James and they are approaching 39 beautiful years of marriage.  God has blessed them with three sons (Raphael, Reginald and Michael), one daughter(Michelle), one son-in-law(Jerome), three daughters-in-law (Sarena, Terry, and Brittany), two granddaughters (Jaydn and Janiya),  one grandson(Grant Rapheal), and the Friendly Family.

Pastor James is a lover of people.  Throughout his Christian walk, he has demonstrated an unfaltering commitment to uphold the ethical and moral teachings of this great church.  He possesses Godly character, great strength and is an anchored inspiration to all Christians.