New Vision Church: A Community Awakening in Jackson, MS

When our Bible Quizzers traveled to Jackson, Mississippi in December of 2024, they met Pastor KJ and stepped into a story of remarkable spiritual transformation.  After facing tremendous trials and obstacles, the believers at New Vision showed up, week after week, with something no program could manufacture: unconditional love. They fed the kids' bodies and their spirits, speaking the hope of Christ into lives shaped by despair.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10)

Over many months, the teens began to respond. Word spread. Where once only a dozen teenagers attended, now 80 young people gather regularly, many discovering the Savior who cares for each of them personally.



The Reality of the Mission

The local community is hurting and they have tremendous needs.  The local church building desperately needs renovation.  The homes need hope and encouragement. 

The answer is the gospel itself.

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:34-35)

How Gateway is Part of This Story

Our VBS children collected 200 food items!

Mike Dodrill and Jack Bechtel recently made the six-hour drive to deliver them and witness firsthand the work God is doing.

They met with Pastor KJ and heard reports that still feel like miracles: Sunday services now average 140 adults and teens.  Gateway Community Church is part of this revival.

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." (Colossians 3:12)

How You Can Help

Jackson needs our continued prayers for Pastor KJ, the volunteers at New Vision Church, and the young people discovering Christ's love for the first time. Pray for healing in a wounded community. Pray for hope to take root where despair has grown deep.  Our Dollar Club continues to use funds to send food to New Vision on a monthly basis. 

To contribute or learn more, see Jenn McCann or Jennifer Gardner.

The work in Jackson is difficult. The needs are real. But the God we serve is greater still—and He is using faithful believers and a generous church family to write a story of redemption in the heart of a hurting city.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)