Dr. Kirk Byron Jones, PhD, DMin, MPhil, MDiv, is a graduate of Loyola University, Andover Newton Theological School, and holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Emory University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Drew University.

A pastor for twenty years, Rev. Jones was the founding minister of Beacon Light Baptist Church in New Orleans, and Senior Minister at Calvary Baptist Church, Chester, PA; Ebenezer Baptist Church, Boston, MA; and First Baptist Church, Randolph, MA.

Currently a professor of ethics and preaching at Andover Newton Theological School, Dr. Jones serves as guest preacher and teacher at churches, schools and conferences throughout the United States. His writings have been published in various journals, including The Christian Century, Leadership, Gospel Today, Pulpit Digest, and The African American Pulpit, a quarterly preaching journal he co-founded in 1997.

Dr. Jones is the author of several best-selling books including Rest in the Storm: Self-Care Strategies for Clergy and Other Caregivers which was recognized in 2009 as one of only 40 books and films selected by Sojourners magazine as the "Best Resources for Social Change." The Sojourners list included the works of historic and contemporary luminaries, including Sojourner Truth, Henri Nouwen, Steven Spielberg, and Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. Jones's other popular titles include:
• Addicted to Hurry: Spiritual Strategies for Slowing Down
• The Jazz of Preaching: How to Preach With Great Freedom and Joy (Abingdon Press)
• Morning B.R.E.W.: A Divine Power Drink For Your Soul and The Morning B.R.E.W. Journal (Augsburg Books)
• Holy Play: The Joyful Adventure of Unleashing Your Divine Purpose (Jossey-Bass).

Dr. Jones enjoys a leisure life of family play, reading, listening to music (especially jazz), and having new learning adventures every day.