What Leaders are saying about James Welch

Some lessons mark you for life—my time under James’ leadership at First Baptist Fort Lauderdale was full of those.

He taught me how to face adversity with grace and lead with love, even when the pressure was high and the path wasn’t clear. In a season where so much around us felt uncertain, James remained steady—anchored in truth, generous with wisdom, and always intentional about investing in others. He didn’t just lead well; he lifted others while doing it. I’m one of those people. I’m better because of him, and I carry what I learned from him into every room I step into.

Stephanie Jacques

Transformation Church

Founder of Crowned Sisterhood

Now, let’s be real. Some Christians can equate Christianity with tradition and change with devlish confusion. So, some of the congregation did not like that they were made uncomfortable; did not like that there was more movement than they were used to.

God had a plan, and Pastor James was a willing disciple, no matter the tempest. Much of James’ vision from God has been implemented by new leadership, and most of his outreach initiatives continued. I am grateful to Pastor James and highly recommend this new devotional.

Bettye Grant

Former Trustee

First Baptist Fort Lauderdale

When I first met James Welch, he was wearing rope sandals and radiating the kind of quiet strength most people only pretend to understand. He stood out, not by trying to, but by living a story that was fully his own, grounded in empathy, grace, and fierce authenticity. James listens as if it matters and shows up as if it’s sacred. Over the years, I’ve watched him walk with people in their darkest valleys, not to fix them, but to be with them. Knowing James and Amy, too, has made me better, made me braver, and reminded me that in a noisy world, there are still people who carry the presence of Jesus wherever they go. His 7-Day Devotional carries that same spirit—honest, healing, and quietly revolutionary.

Scot Loyd

Oral Historian at the Abraham Lincoln Museum and Library 

Author of "The God I was Given"

I’ve known James for nearly twenty years, and he consistently brings encouragement and wisdom born from a life of faithful obedience to God’s call. His heart for leaders is unmistakable; he longs to see them thrive in their purpose, even through painful seasons. This devotional reflects that heart, offering strength and clarity to those navigating the trials of leadership. James understands that wounds are not disqualifiers but tools God uses to shape leaders into the likeness of Jesus, our good Shepherd. Every page is filled with compassion, insight, and hope for those who lead with courage.

Timothy Walker, PhD

Pastor, Writer, and Academic 

James Welch is a visionary leader who inspires others to move from passive belief to purposeful, Christ-centered living. His deep love for the soul of his city is evident in the way he engages culture with both conviction and compassion. James consistently challenges others to live authentically for Jesus, even in the midst of life’s complexity and change. His unwavering commitment to truth, transformation, and community makes him a shepherd worth listening to, and following. He leads not just with strategy, but with a pastor’s heart and a servant’s hands.

Tommy Christie 

Pastor  

Grace Community Church

James and Amy Welch arrived at The Respite during a season of deep exhaustion, physically, emotionally, and emotionally. Like many leaders navigating the aftermath of intense ministry, they had poured out so much that even their spiritual reservoir was running low.

In the stillness and sacred space of The Respite, they found rest. More than that, they leaned into the Spirit’s invitation to slow down, recalibrate, and rediscover the rhythms of grace that restore the soul. With humility and courage, they embraced healing practices and reconnected with the God who was patiently waiting for them to breathe again.

It was a joy to witness James not only be renewed but also realigned. returning to leadership with fresh strength, deeper perspective, and a resilient heart prepared for the road ahead.

Dave Everly 

Founder, The Respite at Halibut Cove

Halibut Cove, AK

We are pleased to write this letter of recommendation for James Welch, who has served as a pastor at our church for the past four years. Throughout his time with us, he has demonstrated exceptional qualities that have made a significant impact on our congregation.

James possesses solid theology and is a passionate teacher of God's Word. He possesses a deep understanding of scripture and effectively communicates its timeless truths. His commitment to biblical integrity and the accurate dissemination of the Word is remarkable.

In addition, James is a creative individual who consistently brings innovative ideas to the table. His ability to think outside the box has allowed us to develop new programs and initiatives that have greatly benefited our church community. He found fresh ways to engage with our local community, and always willing to lead in those initiatives and activities.

Furthermore, James has shown business acumen combined with strong written and verbal communication skills. James has a knack for conveying complex ideas with clarity as expressed by his sermons being impactful and resonating with people from various backgrounds.

It is undeniable that James is a hard worker who goes above and beyond in his duties. He tirelessly invested his time and effort to solve complex problems that our congregation experienced in the last years.

James is also a decisive leader who fearlessly tackles challenges and makes tough decisions when necessary. His ability to assess situations swiftly has been instrumental in guiding our church through various obstacles and uncertainties.

In addition, James has a natural call for developing talent and next-generational leaders of men and women from all backgrounds encouraging them to make a positive impact in their communities.

Finally, James possesses an exceptional ability to read culture with clarity and insight. He understands the pulse of our society, discerning its values, concerns, and aspirations. This enables him to effectively address the needs of our diverse congregation and connect the timeless truths of the Gospel with the realities of our modern world.

In conclusion, James Welch embodies the qualities of solid theology, creativity, business acumen, strong communication skills, hard work, decisiveness, and the ability to develop next-generational leaders from all backgrounds. His remarkable insights into culture allow him to effectively navigate the complexities of our modern society. 

We wholeheartedly recommend him for future endeavors, as we are confident that he will continue to make a profound impact wherever he goes.

Jose Paes-Leme on Behalf of the Trustee Body

First Baptist Church of Fort Lauderdale Deacon Chair 2021-2023

Member of the Board of Trustees