Harry Jackson was a widely respected American Christian pastor, author and bishop known for his bold preaching, leadership strength and influential voice within Pentecostal and evangelical communities. He served for many years as the Senior Pastor of Hope Christian Church in Beltsville, Maryland and was recognized nationally for his roles in ministry, social advocacy and faith-based leadership. His teachings, books and public influence positioned him as one of the most notable African-American pastors of his generation.
Quick Facts about Harry Jackson
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Harry R. Jackson Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 4, 1953 |
| Died | November 9, 2020 |
| Age at Death | 67 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Bishop, Speaker |
| Church/Ministry | Senior Pastor, Hope Christian Church (Beltsville, Maryland) |
| Denomination | Pentecostal / Evangelical |
| Spouse | First wife: Vivian Michele Jackson (died 2019). Later remarried to Rosalind P. Smith |
| Children | Yes, including two daughters |
Early Life and Background
Harry R. Jackson Jr. was born on February 4, 1953, and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. His upbringing played a major role in shaping his future path as a spiritual leader. He came from a Christian home and was deeply influenced by his parents’ faith and commitment to God. His father, a hardworking and disciplined man, instilled in him strong moral values, leadership ideals and a drive to excel.
Jackson later attended Williams College in Massachusetts, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He was also an accomplished athlete during his college years. After completing his undergraduate studies, he pursued theological training at Harvard Business School’s Executive Education program, which helped shape his leadership style and strategic approach to ministry.
Family and Personal Life
Harry Jackson was married to Vivian Michele Jackson for many years until her passing in 2019. Their marriage produced children, including two daughters. After a season of grieving and pastoral support from his church community, Jackson later married Rosalind P. Smith, who continued to support and stand alongside him in ministry.
Family was an essential part of his life, and he often spoke passionately about marriage, family values and the importance of raising children with strong biblical foundations. His teachings on relationships and family life inspired many believers who looked up to him for guidance and mentorship.
Ministry Journey
Harry Jackson’s ministry journey began with a strong sense of calling to preach, teach and lead God’s people. He eventually became the Senior Pastor of Hope Christian Church in Maryland, a thriving multicultural congregation known for its dynamic worship, community outreach and strong biblical teaching.
He also served as the Presiding Bishop of the International Communion of Evangelical Churches (ICEC), a network of pastors and Christian leaders committed to advancing the gospel globally.
Throughout his ministry, Jackson was known for:
- Clear, energetic and transformative preaching
- Leadership development for pastors and church workers
- Advocacy for moral and biblical values in society
- Community outreach and charitable initiatives
- Mentoring younger ministers
His strong presence in both religious and societal conversations positioned him as a bridge between the church and public life.
Books and Published Works
Harry Jackson authored and co-authored several books that focused on faith, leadership, culture and Christian living. Some of his well-known titles include:
- “The Warrior’s Heart”
- “Invasion of God: Personal Transformation, Revival, and the Vision for National Reformation”
- “You Were Born for More”
- “The Truth in Black and White”
- “The Way of the Warrior”
- “High Impact African American Churches” (co-authored)
These books cover a wide range of topics including spiritual warfare, personal development, racial reconciliation and the importance of transformational leadership in the church.
His writings continue to serve as study materials for pastors, church groups and individuals seeking deeper spiritual growth.
Advocacy and Public Influence
Beyond the pulpit, Harry Jackson played a significant role in national conversations on faith and culture. He was known for advocating biblical values, especially in areas such as:
- Marriage and family
- Racial unity
- Social justice from a biblical perspective
- Religious freedom
- Community transformation
His voice was often featured in conferences, media interviews and leadership forums where he provided insight on how the church could respond to cultural changes with wisdom and conviction.
Achievements and Legacy
Harry Jackson received recognition both within and outside the church for his leadership impact. His achievements include:
- Leading Hope Christian Church for many years
- Serving as a bishop and mentor to Christian leaders
- Publishing influential books that shaped evangelical thinking
- Engaging in national discussions around faith and societal values
- Raising up younger pastors through mentorship and training
- Building multicultural and multigenerational church communities
His legacy remains strong through his teachings, books, ministry influence and the many lives he touched during his lifetime.
Net Worth
Harry Jackson’s estimated net worth at the time of his passing is reported to be between one and five million dollars, based on his pastoral leadership, published books, speaking engagements and ministry contributions. Although exact figures are not publicly verified, he was known to live a principled and purpose-driven life rooted in service to God.
Death
Harry Jackson passed away on November 9, 2020, at the age of 67. His death was widely mourned across the Christian community, with tributes coming from pastors, leaders and congregations who had been blessed by his work. His memory continues to inspire many who admired his courage, wisdom and passionate commitment to the gospel.
FAQs
In this section, I will provide you with some FAQs and answers about Harry Jackson. Keep on reading, friend!
1. Who was Harry Jackson?
Harry R. Jackson Jr. was an American pastor, author and bishop known for his leadership at Hope Christian Church and his influential role in evangelical and Pentecostal circles.
2. How old was Harry Jackson when he died?
He was 67 years old at the time of his passing in 2020.
3. What was Harry Jackson known for?
He was known for powerful preaching, leadership within the International Communion of Evangelical Churches, authorship, public advocacy and community impact.
4. Was Harry Jackson married?
Yes. He was first married to Vivian Michele Jackson until her death, and later to Rosalind P. Smith.
5. What is Harry Jackson’s net worth?
His estimated net worth ranged between one and five million dollars, though exact figures were not officially confirmed.
6. Which church did Harry Jackson pastor?
He pastored Hope Christian Church in Beltsville, Maryland.
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