Rev. Jackson is also an independent consultant and associate with the firm, Executive Soul.  As a consultant, Rev. Jackson specializes in developing and implementing employee engagement strategies that increase organizational productivity and morale, while helping individuals and organization realize their full potential.  She is also a special consultant for Alumni and Church Relations for Andover Newton Theological School where she works with pastors and churches to identify needs and provide seminary resources that enhance their ministries.

 

In addition, Rev. Jackson is actively involved in community service.  She is a founding board member of Needham Cares, a non-profit organization established to provide support and relief to Hurricane Katrina survivors in Hancock County, MS; advisory board member of the Needham High School mentoring program; and a member of the Strategy and Action Commission of the Massachusetts Council of Churches, a board focused on social advocacy and advancement.  Rev. Jackson serves through the church by leading monthly worship services at the Long Island Shelter and she serves by performing public service as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 

 

Rev. Jackson holds a Master of Divinity Degree from Andover Newton Theological School, and a Master of Engineering degree in Manufacturing Engineering and a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Indiana University.

 

Rev. Jackson is married to James E. Thomas, Sr.  Their son Jadon is five years old.

Senior Pastor:  Rev. Debora Jackson

 

The Reverend Debora Jackson is an ordained member of the clergy and Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Needham.  She is the 20^th pastor of this 150-year-old congregation, the first African American and first woman to be so called. 

Rev. Jackson is a powerful preacher who recognizes the need for church growth, renewal and revitalization.  Since her pastorate began in 2004, church attendance has nearly doubled; new programs have been launched in the congregation and efforts to provide outreach to the community have been reestablished.

Our Pastor