Legacy of John Perkins
“Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant”
One of my faith heroes passed away this week. John M. Perkins was a civil rights leader and a pioneer in racial reconciliation and Christian community development. A native of Mendenhall, Mississippi, John and his wife, Vera Mae, began the Voice of Calvary ministries in Mendenhall and later in Jackson. After a career of ministry, they looked to retire near family in California. But a drive through Northwest Pasadena made them reconsider retirement, and they started the Harambee Christian Family Center in a neighborhood with one of the highest daytime crime rates in the country. I spent two summers working at the Harambee Center. One summer, I worked directly with John as I helped him build an office/shed in his backyard. I soaked up all the wisdom I could from John. I have read all of his books. The last time I spoke with John was in Durham, NC, when he came to speak at Watts Street Baptist Church about ministry in the nearby neighborhood of Walltown.
John’s vision was summed up in the 3 R’s: Relocation, Reconciliation, and Redistribution. He was a prophetic voice to the church. He was instrumental in the formation of the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA), an organization that continues to do great work around the country.
You have heard many of my John Perkins stories in sermons, and you will indeed hear more. His work and words are an integral part of my story. I’m grateful for John and his life, and I’m grateful for the impact he has made in my life and my ministry.
Pastor Scott
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