The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Reverend Dr. Charles Jackson, Sr.

Brookland Baptist Church
West Columbia, SC

Sponsor: Rep. Joe Wilson, (R-SC)
Date of Prayer: 03/31/2011

One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as Americans recognize Black History Month, I am honored that this month in the midlands of South Carolina that history is being made by the Reverend Dr. Charles B. Jackson , Sr.

Dr. Jackson is being hailed on February 27 for serving a historic and extraordinary 40 years of dynamic leadership at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia. He began preaching at age 9, and at age 18 was installed as pastor, energizing one of the fastest–growing congregations in the Southeast. With great humility, he encouraged the church's 65 ministries.

Dr. Jackson promoted a new sanctuary that seats 2,300, followed by a 68,000–square foot community resource center. In 2008, Brookland acquired a 94,000–square foot educational facility, with 11 acres downtown, while employing over 160 dedicated personnel. A second location was launched in Richland Northeast, pastored by Dr. Christopher Leevy Johnson.

Dr. Jackson is married to the former Robin Hoefer, and he is the father of two children, Rev. Charles B. Jackson , Jr., pastor of the New Laurel Street Baptist Church, and Candace Jackson , an associate attorney with Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough; along with his daughter–in–law, the former Iva Gaymon; and four grandchildren, Kayla, Charles, III, Caleb, and Carter.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:

Eternal God, our Heavenly Father, to whom the earth belongs, the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein. We humbly approach Your throne of grace with hearts filled with gratitude and spirits given to praise. How thankful we are to You for Your unconditional love and how You have demonstrated Your love with compassion, care and concern for all mankind.

Thank you for our President, Senators, Congresspersons and other officials of our nation. Be pleased to favor them with good health and strength, wisdom and spiritual resources to lead our country in a manner that is acceptable in Your sight. We pray that You will keep our great nation under Your holy protection. May we govern in the spirit of the prophet Micah who said to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with You.

Tis Your servant's prayer in the name of Jesus, the Christ. Amen.

To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory