Bro. James McCreary

Hailing from Austin, Texas, James McCreary is a gifted composer, singer, director, musician,

and preacher who captivates audiences all over the globe with his dynamic music leadership and

skillful musicianship. He earned undergraduate degrees at Central State University in

Wilberforce, Ohio, where he studied Business Administration and Music Education while

touring and traveling across the United States and Europe.

With more than 25 years of leading, training, and directing choirs, James holds distinguished

appointments in notable professional societies and organizations. These groups include the

National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses, Incorporated, Golden Triangle Ministers of

Music Association, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and Gospel

Music Workshop of America, Incorporated. James also received The Key to the City for his

distinguished musical influence in several cities in Texas and Ohio.

Currently, James McCreary serves as the Minister of Music at the historic First Baptist Church

of South Richmond in Richmond, VA. Building on his commitment to excellence and care, he

supports and works remotely for his parents’ renowned “A Life Celebration” ministry, which

offers mortuary services to families throughout Texas and surrounding areas.

James has had several mentors and role models who all described the fulfillment of being a part

of Prince Hall Free Masonry and what it brings to their lives. After relocating to Richmond, VA,

and hearing about the great work and legacy of the Masons at Carey Wheaton Lodge #307,

James decided that this was the place where he wanted to begin his masonic journey. James

shares the belief that brotherhood and service make good men better and he strives to live by

those principles each day.