I am a long time native of Rayville, LA. I graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA majoring in Kinesiology. I also received my Masters of Divinity through New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

I came to know the Lord when I was seven years old. I tell people that is when Christ captured my heart. At the age of thirteen, I experienced God’s call on my life to serve Him in full time ministry. I know without a doubt, God has called me to be His mouthpiece. Every since that time, I have been passionate about teaching and preaching God’s Word. My desire and prayer for our church is that we would see Gospel restoration in our everyday lives. 

I am married to my beautiful wife, Kirstyn and we have two kids (Piper and Chapal) and are currently in the process of adoption. In my spare time I like to hang out with my family, run, BBQ, watch LSU football, and bow hunt.

Email James.

Originally from the small village, Calhoun!! From the time I was born, I have been raised in a family that focused on following Jesus. I remember being at church all the time, growing up at Mt. Vernon and then moving to First Baptist Calhoun when I was eight years old. I remember vividly having discussions about Jesus with my parents, siblings and other leaders at First Cal. And then, at a revival meeting, I knew from the simple truth of Jesus giving His life for me... that I wanted to give Him my life from that moment on. Growing up into my teenage and college years, I definitely had rebellious times where I only pursued my own desires and agenda. Through all of that, God was still pursuing me. The realization of that truth woke me up one day, where I knew that I wanted to refocus my life on serving Him alone, no matter what that looked like. I wanted and still do want to be completely open to Him. 

After high school, I went straight to Louisiana Tech University (HBTD!) where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication degree and a Master of Business Administration degree. During college, I was already serving in different ministries, but I had no idea that the Lord would lead me into doing ministry full time. The coolest part has been how I have been able to use my college degrees/experiences to do what He has already planned for me. I have been working in ministry since 2020, and now God has led me to First Monroe. It has already been such a blessing, and I am open to all He has for the future. 

I absolutely love: singing to Jesus & spending time with my 2 nieces and 3 nephews!

Email Hope.