Pastor J.R. attended Olivet Nazarene University in Illinois and Eastern Nazarene College, and from 1988 to 1996 helped expand the church to an international level.
Even with a lifelong struggle with Multiple Sclerosis — in a past interview he called R-E-S-T a four letter word — Pastor J.R. is most often seen rolling along on a Segway unit, ministering to all those in need.
He has been married for over 25 years to Almeda Chavier, and he credits his wife as "a major factor in where I am today."
After the Rev. Dr. Chavier's death, Pastor J.R. didn't immediately assume the leadership role in the church.
"When Dad passed away, the congregation doesn't automatically say, okay the son is going to take over," Pastor J.R. said. "That's not the way our denominational structure works. It has to go through a process. It's a good safeguard to protect the church."
After the board of directors searched for possible candidates, one name came up that seemed to be a perfect fit. "Unfortunately," laughs Pastor J. R., "I met the qualifications of who they were looking for. I am deeply humbled."
In early September, the congregation made it official with their vote.
The major project that he would like to bring to fruition was something close to his late father's heart.
"We want a community center," said Pastor J.R., explaining that when his father passed away everything came to a halt. "We were just getting together the plans and the funding."
Pastor J.R. says that his recent appointment is not about replacing his father, but building on his father's faith and ministry."There has been a legacy with my father," he said. "I'm not meant to fill my father's shoes. I know that God is saying, “I’m trusting you to carry out the new work.
Aubut, Rebecca. "Pastor J.R. Chavier to lead city congregation." New Bedford Standard TImes 29 September, 2007