Pastor Jim Young graduated from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg in 1997.  Following ordination he served at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Hanover, Pa; St. Thomas Lutheran Church in St. Thomas, PA; and Ascension Lutheran Church in Ocala, FL. He retired from full-time ministry in 2014 and has since served five Florida congregations part-time: Grace Lutheran in Tallahassee, Zion Lutheran in Groveland, Gloria Dei Lutheran in Leesburg, St. Andrews by the Sea in Jacksonville Beach, and Spirit of Life in Jacksonville.  He began serving Lord of Life in September 2023.

Prior to entering seminary, he served 20 years as a US Navy Musician, retiring in 1993 as a Lieutenant, Junior Grade (Bandmaster). 

He has been married to his wife, Patti, since 1977.  They have 5 children, 9 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.  His hobbies include computers, music, movies, cruises, and public speaking.   

For his daily inspiration Pastor Jim turns to Psalm 118:24: “This is the day that the Lord has made.  Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”  He says, “It gives me great joy to begin every worship service with these uplifting words.  This verse reminds us of who we are and whose we are.  Worship is a time of celebration and I try to inspire the congregation with my unique brand of ministry.  I am so very happy to bring this spirit to Lord of Life!”