For almost 16 years, Rev. Dr. Timothy James has been an Associate General Minister and the Administrative Secretary for the National Convocation, based in Indianapolis. By his retirement date of Dec. 31, 2020, he will have had more than 17 years in the position.
Kansas Disciples may know Dr. James as the twin brother of our own Rev. Titus James, pastor of North Heights Christian Church in Wichita since 1979.
“I have had such a wonderful time serving over these years,” said James. “I am deeply honored to have served with the first woman General Minister and President, Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins and the first African American General Minister and President, Rev. Terri Hord Owens. A lot of changes have occurred and I am confident, more are still to come.”
James has been AGM in partnership with three GMPs, beginning with Rev. Dr. Chris Hobgood in 2003, followed by Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins and Rev. Teresa (Terri) Hord Owens.
“I have so appreciated working with Dr. James,” said General Minister and President Hord Owens. “He was so welcoming when I arrived … His collegial attitude and easy-going ways will be missed. This next year of transition is an exciting time in the 100+ year history of the African-American community of Disciples.”
Rev. Titus James, Sr. has also announced he will retire August 31, 2020 after more than 40 years as pastor of North Heights Christian Church. He believes in a world where the church plays an active role in society, helping the poorest among us. He has devoted his life to this cause, serving on many local, regional and national boards of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Titus joyfully serves as a community leader in the city of Wichita, working with various ecumenical groups, including Inter-Faith Ministries and the Greater Wichita Ministerial League. He has served as a chaplain with the Wichita Police Department & Sedgwick County Sheriff Department and lends his support to the Poor Peoples Campaign.