
Minister Sean James serves as Executive Minister of Greater Refuge Church of Christ in South Ozone Park, Queens, New York, and as ATL Campus Lead for GRCC Atlanta.
Sean attributes his early understanding of the Word of God, the Church, and faith to the prayers of his grandparents, Deacon Harold James, who is 94 years old, and the late Mother Voncile James. He displayed a deep spirituality from as early as the age of eight, and that devotion has remained a consistent part of his life ever since. In 2012, under the pastoral leadership of his spiritual father and mentor, the late and beloved Bishop Robert I. Thomas Sr., Sean became a credentialed, licensed Minister in the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith, Inc. It is Sean's firm belief in the power of prayer, his unwavering faith in God, and his love for people that have contributed to much of his success.
Sean's ministry lives at the intersection of faith and everyday life. He believes the Gospel belongs not only in the sanctuary but also in the boardroom, the classroom, and the community, and he is committed to making Christ known in every space he enters. Whether he is preaching at Greater Refuge, leading Bible study, or walking with believers through honest questions about what they believe and why, his aim remains the same: to equip God's people to live out their faith with conviction and excellence. He also serves as Chief of Staff for the Department of Education of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith (COOLJC).
That same conviction shapes his work in the marketplace. Sean is the founder and CEO of VSNWKS (pronounced Vision Works), an Atlanta-based firm that helps entrepreneurs, ministries, and nonprofits build the systems and strategies they need to grow. He hosts The LDRSHP Lounge Podcast, where he talks with founders and leaders about faith, resilience, and purpose, and he publishes LDRSHP Daily, a leadership resource for executives. Sean began his career in New York City government and has received numerous city proclamations and congressional recognition awards. He was also named among the 40 Under 40 in government, business, and community by New York City's Home Reporter Newspaper.
Guided by the belief that excellence is the standard, Sean is devoted to helping believers grow in their knowledge of God's Word and walk boldly in the purpose God has for their lives.
