About Zion Baptist Church
Our Church
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Rev. Dr. James Delano Douglas
Reverend Dr. James Delano Payne Douglas serves as Interim Pastor of Zion Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia. A native of Altavista, Virginia, he is the son of Bettie Payne Douglas and the late James Arthur Douglas. Rev. Douglas was called to Zion in May 2024 and was ordained by the Zion Baptist Church in July 2025.
Rev. Douglas holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Lynchburg College (2000), a Master of Divinity (2004), and a Master of Theology (2011) from Union Presbyterian Seminary. In May 2025, he earned the Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Organizational Leadership) from Liberty University. His doctoral research focuses on time-management practices and student success among Generation Z college students.
In addition to his pastoral leadership at Zion, Rev. Douglas serves as an Academic Intervention Coach at Virginia State University, where he supports student retention, persistence, and academic achievement through individualized coaching and innovative learning strategies. His ministry and professional career reflect a deep commitment to education, youth development, community engagement, and multi-generational leadership.
Rev. Douglas has served congregations and ministries across denominational and cultural contexts, including campus ministry leadership at Virginia State University, pastoral appointments within the United Methodist Church, and extensive youth and community outreach throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Mrs. Alicia Douglas following Sunday worship at Zion Baptist Church. Their marriage was officiated by Rev. Dr. Andrew J. White, Pastor Emeritus of Zion Baptist Church. Together, Rev. and Mrs. Douglas joyfully serve God and the Zion congregation through faith, service, and community leadership.
First Lady Alicia Douglas
Alicia Douglas has a heart for service that reaches from her local community to the far corners of the world. A mission trip to South Africa deepened her belief that faith and compassion know no borders.
At home, Alicia serves with Rotary International as a District Trainer. She finds joy in helping local leaders grow in service and in giving back to the communities they love. Her heart is drawn to supporting youth education and building lasting friendships across nations.
Professionally, Alicia spent more than a decade at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, where she wrote financial management policies and strengthened partnerships across federal agencies.
In her quiet moments, Alicia enjoys creating music on her flute and baking her signature pecan pies, each one made with love and meant to be shared.
Alicia continues to serve in leadership roles that reflect her steadfast commitment to community, empowerment, and faith in action.
