Reverend Senator James T. Meeks has quickly
risen to become one of the most dynamic
religious and civic leaders in the nation.
He is the founder and senior pastor of
Salem Baptist Church of Chicago. Located
in Chicago's Roseland community, Salem
is the largest African American church
in Illinois with over 20,000 members and
one of the fastest growing in the nation.
In 2005, Rev. Senator Meeks led Salem
in the construction of the House of Hope,
a $50 million, 10,000 seat community and
worship center.
In 2002, Rev. Senator Meeks successfully
ran for Illinois State Senator for the
15th Legislative District. His win made
him the first Independent legislator ever
elected to the Illinois Senate. Rev. Senator
Meeks considers this position and duties
an extension of his ministry to those
in need. He also serves as the joint chairman
of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus.
Driven by his passion for education, Rev.
Senator Meeks opened Salem Christian Academy
in 1990, where children in grades K-8
receive quality educational instruction
combined with Christian based principles
to ensure young people of today are prepared
to become tomorrow's generation of leaders.
He is the author of two books, "How To
Get Out of Debt and Into Praise," and
"Life-Changing Relationships" which have
been received with critical acclaim.
Rev. Senator Meeks received his B.A. in
Religion and Philosophy from Bishop College
in Dallas, TX.
He and his wife Jamell are the proud parents
of four children.
Salem Baptist Church of Chicago •Rev. James T. Meeks •House of Hope Worship Center
752 East 114th St. Chicago, IL 60628•Church Office: 773-371-2300
Saturdays at 6:00 p.m.• Sundays at 8:00 a.m.• Sundays at 11:30 a.m. • Wednesday Bible Class: 7:00pm
