A native of Columbus, Nebraska, Jim is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado, where he received his Master of Divinity degree.  Prior to entering the ministry, Jim served an extended tour in the Peace Corp as a chemistry and biology teacher in Kenya, and also participated in a Peace Corp training program in Malaysia.  Upon returning to the United States, Jim worked as an environmental specialist for Nebraska Public Power District. After receiving a call to ministry and attending seminary, Jim served United Methodist congregations in Beatrice, Ord, Hastings and Christ United Methodist Church in Lincoln, before retiring in 2015.  Jim has always had a passion for local, national and international mission work, and has organized numerous work mission trips for adult and youth/college age groups. 

Jim and his wife, Karen, a paralegal at Baylor Evnen Law Firm, have two adult children. Their son, Jordan, lives and works in Lincoln, and daughter, Mackenzie, is married and lives in Colorado Springs.  Four month old granddaughter, Violet, is the delight of their lives!