Bishop Melvin Jackson Sr. is the father of many. He is the father of four children — Demetris, Melvin Jr., Belinda and Samuel; and the grandfather of Christopher.

But fatherhood extends further than that. He has been pastor of Greater New Jerusalem Apostolic Healing Temple, which he founded and started since October 1987 in Fayette.

He also fathers and mentors the students at Robert Lewis Middle School along with other ministers.

On March 26, 2007, he, along with the Robert Lewis mentoring team, received an honorable award from Gov. Haley Barbour — the Governor’s Award — for their work being done at the middle school.

On Feb. 16, 2007, he received the Natchez Business & Civic League President’s Award for performance that resulted in pride, satisfaction, financial support and accomplishment throughout the community.

On March 6, 2000, he was ordained bishop at the Greater New Jerusalem Apostolic Healing Temple Church by Presiding Bishop Jarvis Harmon.

This Father’s Day is very special to Bishop Jackson because he also will be celebrating his 35th wedding anniversary with his wife, Queen Jackson.

Bishop Jackson is a registered piano technician. He is the son of the late William Jackson and Mrs. Josephine Jackson Gamble.