Pastor James Laurence

Pastor James Laurence isn’t just Albemarle’s spiritual leader—he’s their all-in-one life coach, counselor, and part-time Wi-Fi fixer. Leading the flock at First Lutheran Church, he brings a mix of saintly patience and the energy of a pastor who’s had one too many cups of coffee. His journey to the pulpit? A Hallmark-worthy adventure, featuring a stint in the Peace Corps in a small African village, where he discovered the meaning of life—and a deep love for tribal art that now decorates his office like a spiritual souvenir shop.

Armed with degrees from schools fancier than most people’s vocabularies, Laurence blends scholarly insight with heartfelt hugs. His office, crammed with African masks and carvings, makes every counseling session feel like a guided tour of the world’s most pious flea market.

He’s not just a Sunday preacher; Pastor Laurence is Albemarle’s resident do-gooder, running outreach programs, giving motivational speeches, and turning every church potluck into a chance for a life lesson. First Lutheran has become a buzzing hub under his watch, a place where casseroles and community collide. His style of leadership is all about inclusivity—everyone’s welcome, even if you’re that guy who brings the store-bought cookies to the bake sale.

And he’s not stopping anytime soon. With a Bible in one hand and a vision for Albemarle’s future in the other, Pastor Laurence is still out there, spreading messages of hope, love, and “maybe let’s all chip in for the new sound system.” He’s a reminder that with a little compassion, a few good sermons, and a really impressive art collection, you too can make a small town feel like home.