Pastor James W. Jones Jr, affectionately known as Pastor J to his congregation, has served as the Senior Pastor of Antioch Baptist Church of Clinton since November 2017.
James W. Jones, Jr
“As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him.” – II Sam. 22:31
Rev. James Wesley Jones, Jr. was born in Cincinnati, Ohio as the only child of Rev. Dr. James W. Jones (deceased) and Annie C. Jones. He received the Lord into his life at an early age at Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in Lincoln Heights, Ohio.
As a young child, Rev. Jones participated in various church activities such as plays, male chorus, the youth choir, and the usher board. After graduating from Cincinnati Public Schools, he attended Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science in May of 1999.
While attending Hampton University, he pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., participated in the Gospel Choir, and remained active in clubs focusing upon his field of study. During his time at Hampton University, Rev. Jones also met his wife, the former April Hill. On June 23, 2001, they wed in Holy Matrimony and now have two daughters; Kayla Sarai and Aniya Renee Jones.
Rev. Jones accepted his calling to the ministry only one day after his marriage, June 24, 2001. He preached his initial sermon on September 9, 2001 and was ordained on March 2, 2003 under the leadership of Pastor Curtis B. Latimore of Antioch Baptist Church of Clinton. He has served as Youth Pastor, led various teaching programs throughout the church, remained active in Young Adult, Male Chorus and Mass Choirs, organized revivals, facilitated Vacation Bible School, and participated in a host of other ministries.
Rev. Jones completed his Master’s Degree Program in Early Education in March 2007 and formerly served as Math Instructional Lead Teacher within Prince George’s County Public Schools. Rev. Jones has also completed his coursework at Dallas Theological Seminary earning his Master of Arts in Christian Leadership (MACL). On Saturday, September 30, 2017, he was overwhelmingly voted Pastor-Elect of Antioch Baptist Church of Clinton and installed on November 12, 2017. Rev. Jones’ prayer is that the LORD uses him to “Cultivate, Connect, and Continue” in the work of Jesus Christ for even greater works are possible through the LORD (Jn. 14: 12).