Dr. James A. Perkins, pastor of the True Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Inglewood, received 2013 Living Legacy Award sponsored by the Judge Mablean Ephraim Foundation.
The announcement occurred at the 11th Annual ‘Honoring Unsung Fathers’ (H.U.F.) Award and Scholarship Brunch on June 16. The event recognizes fathers who maintain a lifestyle that exemplifies love towards their spouses, children, family and community.
Pastor Perkins entered the lives of his stepchildren 48 years ago when he married their mother, First Lady Evelyn Perkins. Her children Roslyn, Romero, Ruel, Rickey and Rafael Grundy embraced him and he became their father, mentor and friend.
According to Lady Perkins, “The children grew to love him as a giving, caring tenderhearted man who loved the Lord and truly loved their mother.
“They commented that they could have not asked for a better Dad and what a blessing he has been in their lives and the lives of their children. James was nominated by his stepdaughter, Roslyn Deval Sherrill.”
Pastor Perkins’ education includes an associate degree from Los Angeles Trade Technical College, B.A. degree in Religious Studies from La Verne College, a BTH degree from the Ecumenical Center for Black Church Studies, a master’s degree in Theological Studies from Faith Seminary in Tacoma, WA, and a doctorate in Theology from Bible Believers Christian College and Seminary.
He teaches Clergy in Church Administration, Finances and Tax Compliance, and Preaching is My Business classes for WHW Ministries led by Dr. Robert A. Williams. Also, he taught the Stewardship Course at the Southwest Diocese Headquarters led by Presiding Bishop Johnny J. Young.
