Meet The Pastor

Meet Pastor J.D. Caudle 

Elder J.D. Caudle was born on December 26, 1986, in Athens, Alabama, to the late John (JD) Davis Caudle and Reverend Myrtle Caudle. From an early age, he was nurtured in the faith at Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, where he was baptized in 1992. His early life was marked by a profound interest in ministry, inspired by the pastors and preachers he admired. This foundation set the stage for a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and spiritual growth.


Elder Caudle was an active member of his church community throughout his youth, serving on the usher board, singing in the choir, and later becoming a musician. His dedication to both his education and faith was evident as he graduated from Athens High School in 2005.


In March 2010, Elder Caudle answered a call to serve his country by joining the United States Armed Forces. He completed basic combat training in June 2010 and is currently approaching retirement from the Alabama National Guard. Alongside his military service, Elder Caudle has pursued academic excellence, earning a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on Information Technology Management, a Master's degree in Divinity, and is currently working toward a Doctorate in Ministry.


Elder Caudle's ministerial journey officially began on April 15, 2015, when he announced his calling to preach the Gospel at Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of Rev. Timothy Townsend Sr. On September 6, 2015, he delivered his powerful initial sermon, "What About Friday Evening," which was met with great acclaim. That same day, he was licensed to preach the Gospel.


His commitment to spreading the Word of God led him to unite with Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Montgomery, where he served on the ministerial staff. On May 5, 2018, Elder Caudle was ordained in Gospel Ministry. A month later, on June 3, 2018, he was elected Pastor of Mt. Elam Baptist Church in Hayneville, AL, where he faithfully served for five years.


After relocating to North Alabama for professional reasons, Elder Caudle and his family joined Fletcher’s Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, where he continues to serve as an associate minister under Elder Kenneth B. Lankford Jr., Senior Pastor.


On January 17, 2026, Elder J.D. Caudle was prayerfully elected Pastor of Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church. He was officially installed as Pastor on March 22, 2026, marking a significant milestone in his pastoral and ministerial journey.


Elder Caudle is not only a dedicated servant of God but also a devoted husband and father. He is married to Gabrielle Caudle, and together they have two beloved daughters, Aaliyah and Adira with JD Caudle II on the way. His journey reflects a life of unwavering faith, leadership, and commitment to both his community and his calling.