Reverend Saunders is a native Washingtonian and was raised in two churches: Gethsemane Baptist Church – where he attended with his parents & Tenth Street. Baptist Church – where he attended with his aunt and godmother, both are in Washington D.C. He was baptized at Gethsemane Baptist Church at an early age and has been a faithful student in Bible & Vacation Bible school studies.
Reverend Saunders attended District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and is a proud graduate of Theodore Roosevelt High School (class of 1975). Reverend Saunders entered the work force landing a job in the DCPS system as a General Service Mechanic/Woodshop (Carpenter) and he retired after 25 years of service in 2010.
While working with DCPS, James was asked to remodel a home into a church. In 1997 Lightwork Ministries was started under the leadership of Bishop Anita O’Brien Founder/CEO. Reverend Saunders answered the call to preach the word of God under her tutelage. James was licensed in 2001 and ordained in 2002. Reverend Saunders is currently on Saint Phillips Baptist Church Ministerial Staff: Media Ministry, Married Couples Ministry, and he continues to study God’s Word.
Reverend Saunders is also a Past Master of Doric Lodge #19 (PHA) 1995 and 2014. He is active in the Grand Lodge holding the position as WAGI/Worshipful Assistance Grand Inspector.
One of his favorite bible verses is Proverbs 3:5-6; Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding; in All your ways Acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your Paths.