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Richard Jackson: A Journey of Faith and Service
My name is Richard Jackson, and I have been married to my wife Nancy for 36 wonderful years. Together, we are the proud parents of three sons, though we do not yet have grandchildren. Our family life has been filled with church activities, sports, and countless vacations and family time that have strengthened our bond.
I was born and raised in Southern California as the fifth of seven children in a devout Catholic family. We adhered to all the traditions and teachings of Catholicism, but at the age of 17, my life took a turn. I lost my best friend in a motorcycle accident, leaving me devastated and searching for purpose. A friend invited me to a free concert at a local church, which I attended partly out of curiosity and partly for a potential date. Little did I know, God had plans for me that night.
The artist Phil Keaggy performed, and the speaker, Randy, delivered a message that felt tailor-made for me. For the first time, I learned what it meant to have a personal relationship with Christ, unbound by traditions or mediators. My life was forever changed.
Although I became a Christian, life’s challenges didn’t disappear. I often stumbled in living a life fully honoring God, but I knew I needed to change. Over time, through both joyous and painful experiences, I rededicated my life to Christ. It was during this transformative period that I met Nancy. Together, we grew in faith, supporting each other as we emerged from difficult circumstances.
We married and began a life filled with God’s guidance. Over the past 36 years, we have lived in several states, including California, Florida, Michigan, and Ohio. Each move brought us to a new church family that loved, challenged, and accepted us. Through these experiences, we’ve built lifelong friendships and served in various roles—youth leadership, small group ministry, accountability groups, worship, technical teams, and eldership. We are grateful for the ways God has used us to raise our sons with Christian values and personal relationships with Jesus.
Professionally, I began my career in IT at 18, despite my passions not aligning with the field. God blessed my journey, providing opportunities to impact many lives. After 40 years in IT, Nancy and I transitioned to real estate and started a small handyman business, both of which have thrived beyond our expectations. These ventures have opened doors to connect with and disciple others, allowing me to use my personality and passion to share the gospel.
Recently, my youngest son and his fiancée asked me to officiate their wedding. I am honored and humbled by this request. It is a special opportunity to share my faith and love for Christ with the people who matter most to me. My late mother always envisioned me preaching, and though she passed in 1998, I believe she would be proud to see me officiate my son’s wedding.
In my search for ordination, I found Christian Leaders Institute. Unlike other quick-and-easy options, CLI provides a robust education and foundation for truly understanding the role of a Christian officiant. I am grateful for the training and the authority it gives me to perform this sacred ceremony. I hope to officiate more weddings as God leads, sharing His love through these special moments.
My life has been full of twists and turns, but God’s faithfulness has been constant. Nancy and I look forward to the future, eager for the new experiences He has planned for us. Indeed, God is good all the time, and all the time, God is good!