Pastor Jerome Branch, Jr., affectionately known as Pastor Jay, is a devoted pastor, husband, father, leader, and community servant with a passion to see people come to Christ and to discover their God-given purpose.

A native of Eastern North Carolina, Pastor Jay began his ministry journey at an early age of 15. He served as an associate pastor of Adamsville Church of God before planting Lion of Judah Community Church in 2014, where he continues to serve as pastor. His ministry is centered on reaching people, strengthening families, developing leaders, and equipping believers to live out their faith beyond the walls of the church.

Pastor Jay earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theological and Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in Pastoral Ministry from Lee University in 2012. In 2016, he was ordained as a bishop in the Church of God. In November 2022, he was appointed District Overseer of the Pamlico District, where he provides leadership and support to pastors and churches throughout the district. He also serves on the MIP Board, helping train, develop, and encourage emerging ministers and leaders. Currently, Bishop Jay is pursuing a Master’s of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counselor at the Pentecostal Theological Seminary, Cleveland TN.

Bishop Jay is married to his wife, Dawn H. Branch, whom he met while attending Lee University. Together, they have two sons, Julian and Khalil. Bishop Jay and Pastor Dawn serve together as a team in the ministry.

In addition to pastoral ministry, Bishop Jay is the owner and operator of Brilliant Minds Enrichment Childcare, where he continues his commitment to education, children, families, and community development.

Bishop Jay is committed to serving God through his prophetic, healing, and deliverance ministry, while loving people, developing leaders, and faithfully fulfilling the purpose to which God has called him.