Meet our Pastor
Reverend James Jamal Evans
Rev. James Jamal Evans was licensed to preach the Word of God on September 16, 2016. He is a dedicated servant of the Lord. He previously served as a leader of the Marriage Ministry and currently serves as Minister of Music at Norton Avenue First Baptist Church. He also currently serves as the Lead Pastor of Norton Avenue First Baptist Church.
On December 14, 2025, Minister Evans was ordained as a Reverend. On March 29, 2026, he was installed as Lead Pastor of Norton Avenue First Baptist Church, continuing a legacy of faithful service and leadership.
Rev. Evans was baptized at Antioch Baptist Church and began serving in ministry at a young age. With a natural gift for rhythm and a passion for music, the Spirit led him to the church’s music department, where he learned to play the drums, bass guitar, and piano. His musical talents have become an integral part of his ministry.
From birth, Rev. Evans has been rooted in the Christian faith. After years of wrestling with his call to preach, he embraced his divine assignment. He was elevated to serve as the Head of the Youth Ministry Department for the Suburban Baptist Association under the leadership of Moderator Pastor Marge Reed.
Driven by a deep desire to glorify God through music, Rev. Evans co-founded the gospel group Chosen Elect. With a firm commitment to scriptural integrity, he ensures that the lyrics he writes and sings are grounded in the Word of God. Chosen Elect released their first single, Give My All, in August 2021. He also released his first solo gospel single, Spirit and Truth, in November 2021.
Raised in Cheltenham Township, Rev. Evans graduated from Cheltenham High School and later earned an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from ITT Technical Institute.
Rev. Evans is the youngest son of Rev. James G. Evans III and Sheila Evans. He is a devoted husband to Ella Evans, and together they are the proud parents of two sons, Tenor James Evans and Canon Mekhi Evans.
Rev. Evans is committed to preaching the pure and unadulterated Gospel of Jesus Christ. He prays that his life and ministry bring glory to the Lord and edify the body of Christ.
Meet our Pastor Emeritus
Pastor James G. Evans, III
Reverend James G. Evans, III is the Pastor of Norton Avenue First Baptist Church (NAFBC) in Bristol, PA.
Pastor Evans was born in Philadelphia, PA, and is the husband of Sheila L. Evans. Pastor and Sister Evans have three (3) sons: Shawn, Christopher, and Jamal; three (3) daughters-in-law: Tammy, Brandi, and Ella; and are grandparents of eight (8) grandchildren: Lil Christopher, Jordan, Deja, Savannah, Tenor, Autumn, Canon, and Samaya.
Pastor Evans grew up in the heart of West Philadelphia. He attended West Philadelphia High School. After high school, he served in the United States Navy as a Radioman. Pastor Evans attended The Virginia Theological Seminary College (which is now The Virginia University of Lynchburg) as well as Amity Bible College.
Pastor Evans was licensed to preach and ordained at the Antioch Baptist Church in North Hills, PA, by Reverend T. N. Nobles. Rev. Evans was called to pastor Norton Ave First Baptist Church in Bristol, PA, and celebrated his 33rd anniversary in October 2025. Pastor Evans is a leader who understands the need to serve the whole community. In March of 2026, Pastor Evans made the decision to retire from the ministry and was elevated to Pastor Emeritus.
His favorite bible verse is 2 Chronicles 7:14- “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”