Rev. Jim Cantrell is a lifelong Georgian and a native of Kennesaw. He has faithfully served in ministry within the North Georgia Annual Conference since 1976, dedicating nearly five decades to pastoral leadership and service to the church.
Jim’s ministry has taken him to congregations and leadership roles throughout North Georgia, as well as internationally. His appointments have included Clayton-New Hope Associate, Gainesville Associate, the American Protestant Church in Bonn, Germany, Tignall Charge, Hampton, Jackson, St. James Atlanta, District Superintendent, Snellville, Trinity, and Villa Rica. He now serves St. James Atlanta as Pastor Emeritus.
Throughout his ministry, Jim has served on numerous boards and agencies and has been elected to five General and Jurisdictional Conferences. His approach to ministry has consistently centered on offering leadership that inspires the soul, challenges the mind, encourages participation, and invites everyone to faith in Jesus Christ.
Jim is a graduate of North Cobb High School and attended the University of Georgia, Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, and United Theological Seminary.
Jim and his wife, Holly, have two grown children, Andrew (Adrianne) and Claire (Bruce Battle), and are proud grandparents to Graham Cantrell, Charlotte Cantrell, and Fisher Battle.
Outside of ministry, Jim enjoys fitness training, college sports, music, reading, and travel. He continues to find great joy in his family, his faith, and his ongoing connection to the St. James community.