By Mikala McCurry
Pastor Gary Jackson, Sr., a Birmingham native, has a heart to serve. He has been the pastor of Lake Elam Missionary Baptist Church in Millbrook for the past four years.
Lake Elam Missionary Baptist Church prides itself on being a “diverse ministry to serve everybody.” They’ve seen tremendous physical and spiritual growth in the church over the past few years, even despite the pandemic.
“We never shut down, we just found different avenues,” Jackson explained. “We want to love people where they are and for who they are, and we believe God will do the rest.”
Under Pastor Jackson’s leadership, the church hosts several community outreach ministries, such as food distribution services, bible studies with the local senior center, and a ministry to serve and involve the youth.
Coming up October 29 from 6:00pm-8:00PM, Lake Elam MBC will be hosting a free community fall festival event at the church, which will include trunk or treating and a chili cookoff.
Pastor Jackson’s overall vision for the church is to “impact people where they are, love people where they are, and grow them spiritually, financially, and mentally to become their best selves in Christ.”
“I want us to get away from the religious stigma that a certain look can make you saved,” he said. “God is not caught up in the look; He’s got caught up in the heart.”
Pastor Jackson encourages anyone looking for a church home in the area to try out Lake Elam MBC. Their Sunday school starts at 8:30AM with worship service starting at 9:45AM. They also conduct prayer and bible study on Wednesdays starting at 6:00PM.
“Lake Elam is here to serve. If anybody in the area is looking for a ministry that’s going to love you and develop you in the family, we’re looking for people to help us serve this community,” he said.
In his downtime, Pastor Jackson enjoys serving the community and spending time with family.
For more information, search for Lake Elam Missionary Baptist Church on social media or visit http://www.lakeelam.com/.
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