Jim was born and raised in New Orleans. In the summer before sixth grade, Jim played second base for the Woodlake Estates Ragin' Cajuns and was awarded the "Best Defense" trophy at the conclusion of their round-robin season. He was active in Quiz Bowl four years later. After high school, he attended Dartmouth College in New Hampshire and received a bachelor's degree in philosophy.
During college, Jim felt called to pastoral ministry, and he subsequently attended Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and earned an M.Div. degree. He pastored Church of the Redeemer (PCA) in Philadelphia before accepting a call here to Providence.
Jim is married to Emily (from San Antonio) and has two young sons, Josiah and Micah. He is himself the son of two parents.