[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 216 (Tuesday, December 23, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1244]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF REVEREND DR. A LINCOLN JAMES, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JENNIFER L. McCLELLAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 23, 2025

  Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Dr. A. Lincoln James Jr., a devoted pastor, educator, and community 
leader whose faith and service left an enduring impact on Richmond and 
the Commonwealth of Virginia.
  Dr. James answered the call to ministry in 1967 and dedicated his 
life to serving God and uplifting others. He earned his undergraduate 
degree in psychology from North Park College and Seminary and later 
received his Master of Divinity from the School of Theology at Virginia 
Union University, grounding his ministry in both scholarship and 
compassion.
  For over 45 years, Dr. James faithfully served as Pastor of Trinity 
Baptist Church in Richmond, where he shepherded generations of 
congregants with wisdom, humility, and grace. Under his leadership, 
Trinity Baptist Church expanded its ministry, strengthened its 
community outreach, and remained a steadfast spiritual home for 
countless families. One of his most lasting legacies is The Trinity 
Family Life Center and its mission to strengthen families and uplift 
communities by enhancing family stability, pursuing academic excellence 
and providing services that create fit and vibrant communities.
  Beyond his pastoral service, Dr. James was a respected leader in 
faith, higher education, and the Commonwealth. He served as President 
of the Virginia Baptist State Convention, fostering unity among 
churches, mentoring faith leaders throughout Central Virginia and 
beyond, and advancing the mission of service throughout the 
Commonwealth. He also served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of 
Richmond Virginia Seminary and as a trustee of the University of 
Lynchburg. In these roles, he helped guide institutions dedicated to 
theological education, leadership development, and community 
empowerment. Dr. James further shared his wisdom as an adjunct 
professor and lecturer at institutions including Virginia Union 
University and Richmond, Virginia Seminary, mentoring future ministers 
and leaders. He also served as a member of the Virginia Parole Board.
  Dr, James's ministry extended across Virginia and beyond, including 
earlier service in Chicago and pastoral leadership in Kilmarnock, 
Petersburg, and Prince George County. Wherever he served, he was known 
for his steady leadership, deep faith, and unwavering commitment to 
justice and compassion.
  Above all, Dr. James was a devoted husband, father, and servant-
leader whose life reflected his abiding faith and love for others. His 
legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the leaders he mentored, 
and the community he strengthened.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the remarkable life of Dr. 
A. Lincoln James, Jr., and in extending our deepest condolences to his 
family, the Trinity Baptist Church family, and all who mourn his 
passing. May his memory continue to be a blessing.

                          ____________________