Our Team

Our Pastor

Dr. James J. Bolton

Pastor James J. Bolton, PhD is a native of Chicago, IL and received his BS in Biology from Wiley College and studied abroad in the Dominican Republic. He received his MS in Genetics and his Doctorate of Philosophy degree in Molecular Biology. After completing his tenure as a scientist at Cornell University, he was employed as a Forensic Biologist with the US government. Dr. Bolton is an author as well as a published researcher and scientific journal reviewer. He wrote the foreword to the acclaimed book, “Today’s Prince, Tomorrow’s King.”

Dr. Bolton is a full Professor of Anatomy & Physiology and the Department Chair of Pre-health Sciences at Odessa College. He was recognized as a distinguished scientist and received the Pioneer in Education Award. Dr. Bolton was inducted into Who’s Who in Science and Education in 2020, and has received numerous other awards and recognitions.

Dr. Bolton’s passion is teaching and preaching the Word of God. He has been involved in ministry for over 20 years. Dr. Bolton became pastor of St. James MBC in March 2021. He has been married to the former Maanami A. Ransom for over 10 years. Dr. Bolton’s favorite chapter in the Bible is Isaiah 12, and he strives daily to live by his favorite scripture, Colossians 3:17. When not involved in ministry work, Dr. Bolton enjoys drinking apple juice, eating barbeque ribs, and watching “Good Times” and “Diff’rent Strokes!”

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First Lady

Maanami A. Bolton

Lady Bolton is the youngest daughter of Arnold and Khiva Ransom. Fourth of five Army Brats, Lady Bolton hails from “The Boogie Down” [South] Bronx. And yes, she loves to dance!

Lady Bolton holds a Bachelors in Human Development from Cornell University, a Masters in Psychology from Pace University, a Masters in Educational Psychology from Texas Tech University, and is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Psychology. Because she is a strong proponent of education and mental health, she has worked as an advocate for education and wellness as a School Psychologist Intern and currently as Adjunct Faculty in the Social and Behavioral Sciences at Odessa College. Of all her accomplishments, Lady Bolton is most grateful for her salvation through Jesus Christ, which she received at the tender age of ten.

From an early age, Lady Bolton has been passionate about worship, prayer, experiencing, and sharing the love of God. She is privileged to continue doing all three here at St. James where her handsome husband, Dr. James J. Bolton, serves as Senior Pastor. The Holy Spirit has graced Lady Bolton to establish the Prayer Council (intercessory prayer ministry), Prayer Chapel, and Couples Sunday School. Each of these ministries encourages people to cultivate an intimate relationship with our Great God!

First Lady

Maanami A. Bolton

Lady Bolton is the youngest daughter of Arnold and Khiva Ransom. Fourth of five Army Brats, Lady Bolton hails from “The Boogie Down” [South] Bronx. And yes, she loves to dance!

Lady Bolton holds a Bachelors in Human Development from Cornell University, a Masters in Psychology from Pace University, a Masters in Educational Psychology from Texas Tech University, and is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Psychology. Because she is a strong proponent of education and mental health, she has worked as an advocate for education and wellness as a School Psychologist Intern and currently as Adjunct Faculty in the Social and Behavioral Sciences at Odessa College. Of all her accomplishments, Lady Bolton is most grateful for her salvation through Jesus Christ, which she received at the tender age of ten.

From an early age, Lady Bolton has been passionate about worship, prayer, experiencing, and sharing the love of God. She is privileged to continue doing all three here at St. James where her handsome husband, Dr. James J. Bolton, serves as Senior Pastor. The Holy Spirit has graced Lady Bolton to establish the Prayer Council (intercessory prayer ministry), Prayer Chapel, and Couples Sunday School. Each of these ministries encourages people to cultivate an intimate relationship with our Great God!

Team Members

Our Team makes St. James Missionary Baptist Church the special place that it is. If you need anything don’t hesitate to ask, we would be happy to help you. At St. James MBC we are a family about our Fathers business!