Inauguration of Dr. Jerry Young as President of National Baptist Convention, USA Inc.

Dr. Jerry Young, pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson, was officially installed as president of the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc., on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015. The event took place at the Jackson Convention Complex in downtown Jackson. Dr. Young became the first president of the nation’s largest African American organization, with 7.5 million members, to originate from Mississippi while serving as a pastor.

Dr. Young, a native of Scott, Mississippi, is one of ten children of Rev. E.L. and Elizabeth Young. He grew up in the Mississippi Delta during the Civil Rights Era, experiencing the challenges and struggles of that time. These experiences, along with overcoming personal disappointments and societal obstacles, shaped his calling to ministry at the age of 17.

His pastoral career began at Mt. Tennia Baptist Church in Lamont, MS, and later included stints at St. John and Pilgrim Rest Baptist Churches in Greenville, MS. Since 1980, Dr. Young has led the New Hope Baptist Church, a congregation that has grown significantly under his leadership. He is also the founder and headmaster of New Hope Christian Pre-School and New Hope Christian Elementary School, serving over 300 students from infancy to sixth grade.

Dr. Young pursued his education at Nugent Center High School in Bolivar County and later earned an Associate of Arts in Social Science from Coahoma Junior College in Clarksdale, MS. He went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Social Welfare from Rust College in Holly Springs, MS, where he met his wife, Helen Akins Young. With her support, he earned a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS.

Dr. Young and his wife are the proud parents of two daughters, Jerlen (Matthew) Canada and Kelli Elizabeth (Benjamin) Hart, and five grandchildren. His leadership at New Hope Baptist Church has focused on a vision to impact the community through the transformative power of the gospel. This vision aims to instill a Christian worldview in the community and beyond.

Under Dr. Young’s leadership, New Hope Baptist Church has experienced substantial growth, both in membership and influence. The congregation now includes over 3,000 members and operates 44 ministries. His mission-driven approach has positioned the church to play a significant role in advancing the cause of Christ locally and globally.

Source: Read the original report