Pastor James Lilly has a tremendous passion for God’s Word coupled with a love to see God’s people restored. He has a contagious spirit of love and gentleness that flows through every facet of his ministry. Having received his mandate from God, Pastor Lilly, obediently fulfills his calling as Pastor of Eagles' Summit Christian Fellowship Church.

He grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as an only child in a Christian home. As a child, he served the priest in the Episcopal church his father attended and the pastor in the Methodist church his mother attended. Through these unique experiences he began to develop a love for the presence of God. After serving his country as a U.S. Marine Corp sergeant, he returned home and married. It wasn't until after serving as a deacon in the Baptist church for four years that he finally accepted his call to preach. After this total surrender, Pastor Lilly moved his family from Philadelphia to Durham, North Carolina to attend Duke University School of Divinity, where he completed his Master's degree. Shortly afterward, Durham became the family's permanent home and place of ministry assignment.

Under Pastor Lilly's leadership Eagles' Summit is making a difference in the lives of its members and the community. Pastor Lilly and his wife, Sandra P. Lilly, are an anointed duo that God is using to make a change in the lives of people. As a dynamic ministry team, they are dedicated servants working to bring restoration to every life they touch.

In July 2002, Pastor Lilly was inducted into the International Covenant Ministries now known as Creflo Dollar Ministerial Association, led by Dr. Creflo Dollar. He has been described as one of Durham's most effect teachers-preachers. His vision is clear, with one central principle; to bring salvation and restoration to people so that they may be an empowered people for God.