OUR LEADERS
Pastoral Staff
We are thrilled to introduce Rev. James "Jay" Forester, a faithful servant of Christ with more than 20 years of ministry experience.
Jay's heart beats for biblical preaching, discipleship for all ages, and shepherding God's people with humility and grace. Jay will begin his preaching ministry to our FCPC family on Sunday, December 7*. Jay will be in French Camp 'fluffing the nest' in anticipation of his family's arrival on or around December 16* after school ends for them.
A Life of Ministry
Jay has dedicated his life to serving in various roles that reflect his deep passion for the Gospel. From 2011 to 2025, he served as Associate Pastor at Seacrest Presbyterian Church, where he preached weekly, led Bible studies, organized Vacation Bible School, and guided family and men's ministries. Prior to that, he was Assistant Pastor at Lake Osborne Presbyterian Church (2009-2010), focusing on youth ministry, teaching, and pastoral care. His earlier ministry included serving as Youth Director at First Presbyterian Church of Madison (2004-2009), where he mentored students and shared God's Word. In addition to his pastoral work, Jay taught 4th grade at Mt. Salus Christian School (2007-2009), earning recognition as "Walmart Teacher of the Year."
Education
MDiv, Reformed Theological Seminary B.A. in Biblical Studies, Belhaven College
Family
Anna (Birmingham native & Biblical Studies major) and Jay met as students at Behaven University, married in 2003, and started their family 7 years later. Currently, they have 5 children: Linley, Clare, James, Grace, and Ramsey.
Jay's ministry is marked by faithfulness, creativity, and a love for God's people. He believes in building a church family where every generation grows together in Christ.
Elders
Left to Right: Lance and Anne Katherine Ragsdale, Larry and Jeré Littlejohn, Dennis and Cindy Cox, Alex and Mary Nell Coblentz, John Robert and Peggy Cockrell, Glen and Debbie Barlow, Bruce and Kim Hosket.
Glen Barlow serves as the Church Treasurer, the Mayor of French Camp, and Sales Manager for WFCA Radio. Glen’s wife Debbie, was the Administrative Assistant in the FCA Dean of Student’s Office. They were also Dorm Subs and together catered many of the meals served for special occasions here at French Camp. After a long and heroic battle with cancer, Debbie was gathered to her home in heaven on Oct. 25, 2022.
John Robert Cockrell and his wife Peggy have been at French Camp for over 50 years and have served in numerous capacities. John Robert served as the H.S. Principal at FCA for many years and is currently the Athletic Director. Peggy taught school at French Camp Elementary School until she retired in 2000.
Dennis Cox teaches Old Testament Survey and Christian Worldview classes at French Camp Academy and often teaches Sunday School at the church. He and his wife Cindy are dorm parents in Griffin Dorm.
Bruce Hosket is a former Football Coach and Dorm Parent at French Camp Academy, and for 35 years was the Dean of Students with oversight of the boarding staff and students. He is also a graduate of FCA. Bruce’s wife Kim works in the high school library and serves as the church Custodian. Bruce teaches an adult Sunday School class at the church. Together they have founded a counseling ministry of French Camp Presbyterian Church called Renew, Marriage Intensives.
Larry Littlejohn is the Clerk of the FCPC Session, former moderator of Mississippi Valley Presbytery, and former moderator of the ARP General Synod. He is the Assistant Principal at French Camp Academy, has taught H.S. Math and was Camp Director for FCA’s Camp of the Rising Son. Larry’s wife Jeré is a retired college professor from Ole Miss.
Lance Ragsdale is Vice President of Development at French Camp Academy, is often a guest preacher at area churches and teaches Sunday School at the church. His wife, Anne Katherine, is the church pianist, the accompanist for the FCA choir and a collaborative pianist who performs with both students and faculty at Mississippi State University.
Deacons
Greg Browning David Dennis
Danny Donald
Jason Purvis
Roy Purvis
Music Ministry Team
Anne Katherine Ragsdale
Kevin O’Brien
David Dennis
Alex Coblentz
Custodial Staff
Custodian: Kim Hosket, Bruce Hosket
Lawn Maintenance: Matthew Dennis