Minister James E Bates Jr has been a member of First Baptist Jericho since 1993. He is the husband of Venny Bates and have seven children- Antoine, Tamara, Antoinette, Jimmy, Helsye, Melsyie and Jeven. James has been active in ministry serving on the mass choir, a trustee, and Director of men. James is active in teaching Sunday school and passion about severing and preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.  James received his Associate degree from Gloucester county college in Sewell NJ and his bachelor degree in Theology and leadership in 2008 from Philadelphia Biblical University in Langhorne PA. and was awarded Who’s Who for outstanding achievement Merit Award of Leadership andAccomplishment; James also Awarded for his Contribution and Support of United States Troops in Iraq; Recognition of Community Support for Hurricane Katrina. Veteran with Honorable Discharge 1978 – United States Marine Corps, Good Conduct Metal. At present James works serving the community as a substance abuse counselor to adolescent and declared war on drugs. James is an internationally certified drug and alcohol counselor awarded by the State of New Jersey.