Sam James has served for 63 years with the International Mission Board, SBC in Southeast Asia, East Asia, Europe, Central Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. He has been a church planter, administrator, trainer, member care provider, and missionary statesman in troubled areas. For decades he has spoken at retreats and conferences for multiple mission organizations. Sam and his wife, Rachel, are parents of four children, two of whom served on the mission field. His BA degree in English and Greek, MTh degree in New Testament Interpretation, and Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Care and Counseling uniquely equip him for various avenues of service. He and his family served in Vietnam during the critical war years from 1962 to 1975. Following his service in Vietnam, he led the building and development of the International Learning Center for training and equipping missionaries, and served in various roles in 118 countries around the world.