Rev. James A. Hayes
Senior Pastor
Rev. James A. Hayes is a devoted and experienced pastor with a deep commitment to ministry and service. A native of Catawba, Chester County, SC, Rev. Hayes began his ministry at the age of 17, delivering his initial sermon at Mt. Zion A.M.E. Zion Church in September 1996. Over the years, he has faithfully served in various capacities within the African Methodist Episcopal Zion (A.M.E. Zion) Church.
Rev. Hayes’ pastoral journey began in 2001, when he was appointed to St. James A.M.E. Zion Church in Hickory Grove, SC, where he served for five years. He continued his ministry at Ebenezer A.M.E. Zion Church in Smyrna, SC, before moving on to Zion Hill A.M.E. Zion Church in Camden, SC in 2018. His service to the church also included appointments at Pleasant Grove A.M.E. Zion Church in Heath Springs, SC, and Edwards Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church. After five years at Mt. Pleasant A.M.E. Zion Church, he was appointed to his current position as pastor of Franklin Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church in the Central North Carolina Conference.
Rev. Hayes is a committed lifelong learner. He holds an Associate degree in Liberal Arts from Clinton College and a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Human Resource Management from Strayer University. He is currently pursuing a theological education at Hood Theological Seminary, with an expected graduation date of May 2023. His academic and professional pursuits complement his strong spiritual leadership and dedication to the A.M.E. Zion Church.
In his personal life, Rev. Hayes is supported by his wife, Katrina, and their two children, Channing and Chelsea. He also shares a close bond with his siblings: brothers Anthony Hayes and Anthony Patton, and sister Angela Hills. Above all, Rev. Hayes humbly credits his achievements and successes to the grace and power of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Hayes’ ministry is characterized by a deep passion for the spiritual growth and development of his congregation, a commitment to serving his community, and a steadfast devotion to God’s calling.