Retired minister takes on a new mission

All it takes is a little faith, especially when one is low on friends, family and finances.

Such was the case with retired East Gaffney Baptist Church Pastor Ron Jackson while preparing to move to New Orleans Baptist Seminary decades ago.

The aspiring minister was packed with Bible in hand for the trip. However, Jackson was low on funds, making what was to be a major step in his life a stressful one.

"I was so ready to go to seminary, but did not have the resources to go," Jackson said. "It was something you don't want to talk or deal with, but sometimes those are the circumstances."

But in the midst of the storm, a friend Jackson led to Christ came to the rescue.

"This friend decided to sell antique guns so I could go on to New Orleans," Jackson said. "I'll never forget, he came in and laid six one-hundred-dollar bills on my table. That moment touched me, and I want to be of the same service to others."

Jackson and his wife, Karen, have definitely not forgotten the help they received many years ago, giving monetary assistance to needy and retired pastors, the widows of pastors and married ministerial students through their nonprofit organization Parson's Pantry.

Jackson decided to create Parson's Pantry when he knew his time behind the pulpit was nearing a end. The organization began as a program at East Gaffney Baptist Church in 2005.

Since its inception, the pantry's shelves remain full, with more than $64,000 being given to ministers in need of funds. More than 120 families have been helped by the effort, with fundraisers and donations from local churches being used to help during their time of need.

"We just feel pressed to reach out to these people," Jackson said. "God has really helped us and we are trying to get word out that we are here to help."

The former pastor, who also serves as chairman of the organization, has designated October as Parson's Pantry Month. All contributions given to the Parson's Pantry go directly to assist needy families.

"People don't give because you ask them to, they do it because they want to help," Jackson said.

For more information on Parson's Pantry or to assist in the ministry, call 489-8740, or send them an e-mail at egbc@charterinternet.com.