Although born in Edgware, Reading is Keith Jackson’s hometown. Not from a Christian background, he became a Christian in the lounge of John Harrison one of the previous pastors here, as a result of the “Here’s Life” campaign run by Campus Crusade for Christ in association with local churches in 1980.

Joining the Elim Church which was then in Waylen Street, Keith was nurtured and discipled as a teenager. He has led Elim churches in Douglas, Eastbourne and Chelmsford prior to serving as a missionary in Southern Africa. He joined the team here in January 2023.

Keith is an ordained Elim pastor and holds a BA (Hons) and an MTh, both in Applied Theology. He has authored numerous books, including Exquisite Jesus, Surrendered Warriors and a Christian novel, The Promise. He is an F1 fan and follows Liverpool FC.

Keith’s wife Barbie is South African by birth and is a naturalised British citizen. A qualified nurse and midwife, she obtained a BSc (Hons) in Midwifery and works for the local NHS trust. Barbie also attended Bible College for two years alongside Keith, obtaining a Diploma in Higher Education. Prior to ministering overseas, she held credentials with Elim as a Licence to Minister. Barbie is famous for her hugs and hospitality.

Keith and Barbie have three married sons and three grandchildren.