Pastor James Zimbalist Ransom is a dedicated leader and servant of the Lord Jesus Christ with a remarkable journey both in ministry and life. Born on May 1, 1961, in Lake Worth, Florida, he is the second of five children to James and Moroline Ransom. Pastor Ransom completed his primary education in Palm Beach County Florida before moving to Iowa in 1978 on a football scholarship to Iowa State University.

During his time at Iowa State, Pastor Ransom excelled as an athlete, lettering all four years, earning recognition as a pre-season All-American, and serving as team captain during his senior year. It was also during his college years that he met his wife, Tresa, and the couple married in 1985. Together, they have been blessed with four children: three daughters — Traya, Trakaya, and Trinity — and one son, Samuel.

After graduating from college, Pastor Ransom worked in information technology where he held various positions as a computer programmer, programmer analyst and wide area network specialist. 

During a service at the BCC Christian Worship Service, a campus ministry at Iowa State University, he dedicated his life to the Lord. Three months later, he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Soon after, he was appointed chairman of the Deacon Board of the campus ministry.

After three years of faithful ministry service on campus, he and his wife moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where they attended Morning Star Baptist Church. There, he answered the call to ministry and preached his trial discourse on October 2, 1988. At Morning Star, he served as Youth minister with his wife working alongside him for two years. In 1990 the BCC Christian Worship Service called him back to the college campus where he pastored for five years.  Subsequently, he joined Cornerstone Family Church in Des Moines as Associate Pastor and Elder, serving faithfully for eight years.

In 2003, Pastor Ransom accepted a new assignment, becoming the pastor of From the Heart Church Ministries of Richmond. Since June 1, 2003, he has led the congregation with dedication, fostering a loving and spiritually vibrant church community.

Pastor Ransom’s love for the Lord and his life reflects his unwavering faith, love for the church, and commitment to nurturing both individuals and families in their growth and maturity in the Lord Jesus Christ.  He is committed to uncompromisingly preaching and teaching the Word of God.