our HISTORY

James L. Black, Sr. is a native of Savannah, Georgia. He is a graduate of Oakwood College (now Oakwood University) in Huntsville, Alabama, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Theology with a minor in Biblical Languages.

Pastor Black began his ministry in the Southwest Region Conference, where he served as both youth pastor and senior pastor. From 1991 to 2000, he served as the conference youth director. During this period, he was a member of the NAD Youth Committee and served as secretary for the NAD Pathfinder Committee. He also served for four years as president of the Black Adventist Youth Directors Association.

Several major initiatives were established under his leadership at NAD Youth Ministries, including the NAD YPAC Leadership Summit and the Just Claim It (JCI) World Youth Prayer Congresses. Thousands of young people have had the opportunity to strengthen their relationship with Jesus through these events.

Pastor Black and his wife, Maxine, have three adult children and five grandchildren. He enjoys all types of outdoor activities—including fishing, camping, and hiking—and cherishes spending time with his children and grandchildren. His favorite saying is, “The quality of your preparation will determine the quality of your performance.”