They both have members. And members are the central focus of James Conner's dual career as a pastor and new chamber of commerce president. Conner, pastor of River Road Baptist Church in Hilliard, also serves as president of the Greater Nassau County Chamber of Commerce, which is headquartered in Callahan. With a congregation of about 400 active church members and 134 chamber members, he's a busy man. But, he added, both positions allow to him to help the well-being of the community.
Membership is a secondary result.
In his chamber work, gaining membership is one of his primary goals. Before going into the ministry, Conner worked as a church music director. After serving as pastor of a church in Georgia for 10 years, he returned to Nassau County in 1986. He became River Road's interim pastor that year and later accepted the position permanently. Conner said his experience in the church and in business has prepared him to be chamber president.