THE REVEREND MIKEL JERE JAMES Senior Pastor
Rev. Mikel Jere James is a dedicated educator, community leader, and pastor based in Florida. Born and raised in Marion County, he received his education from the local public schools before going on to earn an AA degree in Psychology and a Bachelor in Business Administration: Organizational Management from the College of Central Florida. Currently, he is pursuing graduate work at Southeastern University.
As a young person Rev. James was trained in leadership by the African Methodist Episcopal church. As a YPD'er he served on the local, area, conference and episcopal district levels. He attributes his leadership development skills along with the opportunity to showcase those skills to the foundation established by the AME Church.
Rev. James has been recognized for his outstanding service and leadership, receiving the prestigious Bob Graham Distinguished Service Award from the Florida College System and being inducted into the Florida College System Hall of Fame in 2019. He is also a sought-after national conference presenter on topics of student engagement and leadership.
Rev. James is an active member of the Ocala/Marion County community volunteering on several community boards. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
On November 22, 2024, The Right Reverend Marvin Clyde Zanders, II, The Presiding Bishop of the 11th Episcopal District (comprising Florida and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas) Appointed Rev. Mikel James as the senior pastor of Mt. Tabor AME Church. This pastoral opportunity gives Rev. James the amazing opportunity to pastor the very church he recieved his license to preach. Prior to being appointed to Mt. Tabor he served as the lead pastor of the St. Luke AME Church in Alachua and the Greater St. Joseph AME Church of Sparr.
He is a devoted husband to Mrs. Jasmine Monique James and a loving father to their two children, Drey and Mikenzie. With a passion for serving his community and empowering others, Rev. Mikel Jere James is a true inspiration to all who know him.
