Written by: Beth Baker

Ron Jackson, founder of Parson’s Pantry Ministry, recently walked 98.2 miles from Gaffney to the State House in Columbia, S.C. Jackson is a 71-year-old retired pastor. This is his third annual walk to raise funds in order to provide financial assistance to needy pastors, widows of pastors, and married ministerial students.

Jackson began Parson’s Pantry as a result of his own experience when God called him into the ministry. He had a young family and took a big step of faith. He left his job with no known financial means for relocating his family in order to attend seminary. Herb Holt, a man Jackson baptized and discipled, presented him with a gift of $600. It was a “great encouragement” to Jackson and enabled him to continue his studies. He never forgot that gift and how it blessed him and his family. It was then that the seed of Parson’s Pantry was planted in his heart. After serving almost 40 years as a pastor, he began the ministry of Parson’s Pantry in 2005 with the support of his wife, Karen.

Jackson began his walk at the Gaffney City Hall after having prayer with a loyal group of supporters. That day, he walked 19 miles along Hwy. 18 to Jonesville. The second day he walked to Union, connecting with Hwy. 176, which eventually led him to the State House.

He walked a total of 97.2 miles in seven days. After resting overnight in Columbia, he walked the last mile to the State House steps with his friend, Cliff Satterwhite. Jackson celebrated with his wife, along with family and friends from Gaffney, friends from the Baptist Foundation of South Carolina, and Dean Brion Burns with ministerial students from Columbia International University. Rep. Steve Moss presented Jackson with a state flag that had flown over the State House. Jackson was then greeted by Gov. Nikki Haley.

Parson’s Pantry Ministry operates with a board of directors that consists of 20 pastors and laypersons. It is a tax-exempt organization, and 100 percent of every gift goes directly to help a servant in need. Jackson and his wife take no salary and cover all expenses of the ministry. Parson’s Pantry has assisted 564 needy families since it began.

To contribute, or for further information, call 864-490-0596.