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Pastor Martin L. Jakes, Sr., a passionate Pastor and Teacher, is a native of Chicago, Illinois, has shared the gospel of Jesus Christ for over 28 years.

Pastor Jakes has served alongside many influential pastors in the Metropolitan Atlanta area over the years. In1996, he responded to the call to plant a new church in Stone Mountain, GA. During this time many souls were won to Christ.

Pastor Jakes has since pastored the Greater Mount Hermon Baptist Church in Atlanta and under his leadership the ministry doubled in membership and several new ministry initiatives were launched.

Being led by the Holy Spirit, Pastor Jakes founded the Light of the World Church International in 2009. This young ministry is dedicated to communicating the gospel of Jesus Christ, and demonstrating God’s unconditional love to the world.

Pastor Jakes received his collegiate education from Harold Washington College, Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University), Southern Baptist Theological Seminary-Boyce Bible College and Midwest Theological Institute where he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, and is furthering is divinity studies at the Andersonville Theological Seminary.

Pastor Jakes, for more than 35 years, has been in the music ministry and music industry, and is a highly respected musician, conductor, music producer, recording artist, songwriter, and singer; and has conducted workshops locally and nationally. He has made several television appearances, one of which was on BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel. The Lord has led his music ministry to several parts of the world. He has toured the United States, the Caribbean, and the Soviet Union. Hundreds and thousands of people have been blessed, and encouraged by the anointed music ministry of Pastor Jakes.

Through his vision to inspire people, he founded Nitram International Company LLC, Hands Lifting Humanity, and EMJ Entertainment LLC. These organizations, where he serves as President and CEO, reflect his passion "To help people reach their destiny and develop their God given abilities to share with the world."

Pastor Jakes is a loving and devoted family man. He is married to the lovely Betty J. Jakes, and is the proud father of three young adult sons, Elijah, Martin Jr., Jonathan, and one granddaughter Kai Jakes.