Hello, my name is James Long, Jr. I am a Pastor, Professor, Board Certified Professional Counselor, and Certified Biblical Counselor. I am passionate about the gospel of God’s amazing grace to us in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ.
My Testimony
I was born in New Jersey. I grew up in a religious but not Christian home. My home life was chaotic, and it lacked a sense of security or assurance. My parents divorced when I was 13 years old.
My mother, wanting to get us a good Christian education, sent my brother and me to Brookdale Christian School, a ministry of Brookdale Baptist Church in Bloomfield, NJ. I began attending the junior high youth group of the church. At Pinebrook Bible Conference, on a youth winter retreat, the retreat speaker confronted me with the gospel message. He asked if we were sure we would go to heaven if we were to die that night. I was not sure.
I knew about Christ. I had even won Bible memory competitions at school, but I had never personally placed my trust in Him. I prayed and asked Him to forgive my sins. I acknowledged that He was the only Savior. I asked Jesus to come into my life. I was converted to Christ.
Since my conversion, I have been continually blessed by God. He graciously saved my mother, brother, sister, and maternal grandparents. He also gave me a family in the church that provided a role model and several significant father figures. However, more importantly, my conversion has allowed me to develop an authentic relationship with my faithful Heavenly Father.
I cannot tell you what it means to call the Creator God, Sustaining God, and Saving God, my Father. I am His child. He is always present, all-powerful, and all-wise God. He wants the best for me and is faithful. In Him, I am completely secure and thoroughly assured. He has graced me with new life, and He continues to grace me by making me a new creation.
My Education
I attended Northeastern Bible College (now part of The Kings College of New York.) I received several degrees while at the college. I went on to New York University for my graduate degree. I received my Doctor of Theology degree with an emphasis in Biblical Counseling from Master’s College. I am a certified Biblical counselor, Board Certified Professional Counselor, and certified Relational Wisdom instructor.
My Ministry
Throughout my life, I have served in several churches as a pastor or elder. I began my counseling ministry in 1992. I have taught on the undergraduate and graduate level at several Christian colleges and universities. I am a frequent speaker conference and retreat speaker.
I live in New Jersey with my wife, Amy, and our three children, Abby, Hannah, and Isaiah.
S.D.G.
