30
CELEBRATING
YEARS OF
Preaching Teaching Pastoring
T
he journey of Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. into the realm of Kingdom service begins at the age of 17 when he accepts the call to ministry; it is a stage of adolescence when the attention of most young men is diverted in many directions. A select few however, possess a desire that is Kingdom-ward. A place one might refer to as the Joseph syndrome. A dreamer of doing great things in God. A young man with wisdom and a passion for the preached Word beyond his years, Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. faces seasons of opposition, pits of rejection, but never gives up on the dream of advancing the Kingdom for God. A thirst for knowledge and a love for God’s Word becomes the catalyst that propels him forward to pursue a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Bishop College in Dallas, Texas. He graduates with honors, returns home, and the thirst for knowledge increases motivating him to continue his education at Christian Theological Seminary (CTS) in Indianapolis. Pastor Johnson would soon discover there remained yet a crucial part of the Kingdom dream yet unfulfilled.  Then comes the call that would catapult a young twenty four year old to a place in the Kingdom that many could only dream about.
“Launch out into the deep and let down your net for a draught”
He is the recipient of six honorary Doctoral Degrees from various institutions, including St. Thomas Christian College Jacksonville, Florida (October 2016), Simmons College, Louisville, Kentucky (May 2007), Martin University, Indianapolis, Indiana (May 2008), Paul Quinn
(Luke 5:4)
On April 7, 1988 one month shy of the age of 25; seven years after accepting the call into ministry, Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr.\ enters the world of pastor, leader, and shepherd of Eastern Star Church. Seven, God’s number of completion. It was time for Jeffrey Johnson the Dreamer to be introduced to the world. And into the world he would go, carrying a Word in his mouth unparalleled by many preachers. He continues to be the quintessential spokesman for God by which all others can be measured. Under his leadership, the congregation of Eastern Star Church grows from 300 to over 10,000 members! Pastor Johnson’s contributions and presence in the community are vital tenets of Kingdom service.
College, Dallas, Texas (May 2009), Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, Indiana (August 2015), and Christian Theology Seminary, Indianapolis, Indiana (May 2018) In addition, Dr. Johnson served as the Assistant Chaplain for the Indiana Pacers. He offers his counsel and wisdom as a board member for numerous organizations in the community. “Launch out into the deep and let down your net for a draught” (Luke 5:4). Eastern Star Church is “One Church in three locations”, employing over 80 full and part-time employees overseeing 40 active ministries. JEWEL Ministry, its radio, television, and online outreach touches more than one-million people weekly throughout Indiana.
When a man possesses God-sized dreams he can accomplish the extraordinary. Led by the Spirit of God, Pastor Johnson has orchestrated the construction of worship facilities in response to ministry growth: ESC Main Campus, a $5 million sanctuary and family life center (1994); JEWEL Christian Education and Conference Center, a $16 million, 120-thousand square foot facility to house JEWEL Childcare-Preschool and Kindergarten, JEWEL Christian Academy (1995-2010), bookstore, gymnasium, fitness center and classrooms (1999); ESC Northeast Campus-Fishers, a $9 million, 65-thousand square foot sanctuary and chapel with classrooms, bookstore and café (2003); JEWEL Human Services (renamed CARE Center), an outreach facility with food pantry, clothing panty and benevolence staff (2005); and ESC Northwest Campus, a $18 million, 107-thousand square foot sanctuary, with chapel and education wings for youth and adults. (2011). Commissioned by God, to breathe life into the community surrounding ESC Main Campus, in 2017 Pastor Johnson along with the members of ESC launch out into the 46218-area establishing The “ROCK” Initiative – Renewing Our Community for the Kingdom. The mission ESC chooses to accept, is to build a sense of community among the people who live within 46218. The mission is to enhance the range of housing options available by building new, affordable housing, to grow the overall financial security of residents in the neighborhood, and to enhance both formal and informal educational opportunities. The “ROCK” Initiative further commits to a matching contribution; for every home built in Indianapolis, another home is built in Haiti. Perhaps the success of Pastor Johnson’s God-given dream to build the Kingdom exponentially is the unselfish desire to support other carriers of the gospel with a call to lead God’s people.
I
nfluenced by the example of Apostle Paul, Pastor Johnson, under the direction of Holy Spirit plants three ministries, installing three overseers in Indianapolis, Indiana. August 2001 New Life Worship Center is birthed; (Sr. Pastor John F. Ramsey), March 2004 births New Beginnings Fellowship Church; (Dr. James A. Jackson Sr.), and in September 2006, New Horizons Fellowship Church is birthed; (Sr. Pastor Eric L. Wiggins Sr.). Each ministry continues to thrive vibrantly, the result of the vision of a man with God-Sized Dreams. In August 2007 Pastor Johnson launches Kingdom Word Ministries (KWM), publishing his first book and study guide entitled, “Song of Solomon: Love, Sex, and Relationships”. Additional works would follow, including “Making A Comeback: Reclaiming Our Lives in Christ” (2008), Life Illustrated: Daily Thoughts For Your Daily Walk”, and a devotional journal entitled, “Dialogue with My Daughters” (2011), “Dialogue With My Sons” (2013), “Dialogue With Single Parents” (2015), and his latest work; “The Making of a King” (2016). A devoted husband and father, Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson and his loving wife Lady Sharon, along with their four sons (Jeffrey Allen, II, Jordan Adam, Jalon Alexander, and Josiah Andrew) have traveled this journey together through favorable and unfavorable conditions. The etymology of Eastern Star’s first family when viewed closely is prophetic at best. Jeffrey his name means (GOD’S PEACE), Sharon her name means (FERTILE LAND, Amazingly beautiful, funny, kind, and outstanding). Jeffrey II (a double portion of GOD’S PEACE), Jordan, his names means (TO DESCEND, TO FLOW DOWN), Jalon (A LODGING PLACE), and Josiah, his name means (THE LORD SAVES). The meaning of their names make-up the mission and vision of Eastern Star Church. To spread PEACE through the preached Word from a place alive with the Spirit of God. A FERTILE LAND growing and productive, FLOWING DOWN from its leaders to the body, so that all who enter its doors find SAFE LODGING, and know for a surety that THE LORD SAVES all, who call upon His name. Pastor Johnson chooses as his helpmeet Sharon Henry. Lady Sharon is his Azar and Ezer (Hebrew names for helper). Lady Sharon exemplifies the word “helpmeet”. Not a superficial meaning, but in the Hebrew sense of the word – when you risk your own
well-being helping another. She is his helper, one suitable, “ezer kenegdo”, companion, counterpart, comparable one, fit, just right. One who comes to the aid of, to help or relieve when in difficulty, want or distress, as to succor a besieged city. Lady Sharon, she is a helpmeet to her husband and the people of God they are assigned to lead. Lady Sharon’s multiple roles as leader, businesswoman, wife, mother, First Lady, friend, and family member does not diminish who she is as a person. Her contributions allow this gifted woman of God to minister through the performing arts (music and theatre). She is active in Eastern Star’s Mass and Combined Choirs, she has appeared over the years in various stage plays, including Upon This Rock the Passion Play Experience, The Cracked Pot, and Mahalia. Lady Sharon realized her own “GOD SIZED DREAM” in 2016 when she undertook the awesome task of producing and directing the stage play; “CREEPS & SILLY WOMEN”, a story based on her husband’s sermon of the same title. Her volunteer efforts have include JEWEL Childcare Preschool, Manager for the JC Squad (her sons Christian rap group), ESC Care Center, Day Springs Homeless Shelter, Indianapolis Housing Communities (the women of Beechwood Gardens and Hawthorne Place) and overseer for Kingdom Word Ministries. Lady Sharon Henry-Johnson; a classic and a classy example of a Proverbs 31 Woman. Pastor Jeffrey Allen Johnson, Sr. is committed to preaching and teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, ministering holistically to congregations, and communities across the country and other parts of this world, passionately lifting the cause of social justice wherever injustice is found. Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. - A Man After God’s Own Heart Submitted by the Eastern Star Church Pastor’s Aid Ministry To God Be The Glory!
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Lord, thank you for giving us a Pastor according to your heart who has fed this flock with knowledge and understanding of your Word for 30 Years. Lord, thank you that through our Pastor we’ve learned to build houses of worship, plant churches, and pave roads of compassion both locally and globally. Lord, thank you for giving us Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr., and he has let his light so shine before us, that we see it and glorify you our Father in Heaven. Lord, thank you for Lady Sharon, for she is strong and respected by the people. She speaks wise words and teaches others to be kind. She watches over her family and never wastes her time. Lord, thank you that her children speak well of her. Her husband also praises her for a woman who respects the Lord should be praised. Lord, give her the reward she has earned; she should be praised in public for what she has done. Now Lord, may you continue to bless and keep our beloved Pastor and Lady Sharon; make your face shine upon them and be gracious to them, may you lift up your countenance upon them and give them peace, for now and forever more. The Eastern Star Church Family
“Lady Sharon has been my biggest supporter through the years as I have tried to serve the Lord. Her love, understanding and prayers have uplifted me throughout this blessed move of God. I love her with a love only Christ Himself could place within my heart. Sharon personifies the fact that “It so good loving somebody when somebody loves you back”. King Solomon is right. “He that finds a wife, finds a good thing.” (Proverbs 18:22) God, indeed, has blessed me with a good thing in Lady Sharon Ann Johnson.” This is the quote I gave five years ago during our 25th Pastoral Appreciation and nothing has changed. I still feel the exact same way about this wonderful journey we have been on together in ministry for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr.
Jeffrey A. Johnson
To My Wonderful Husband Jeffrey My heart rejoices and is overwhelmed as we celebrate 30 years at Eastern Star Church. God has honored your faithfulness and your great labor of love. God has given so much honor and respect to you as a Pastor and in our community. He has also given you a “different and special” gift that was only for Jeffrey Allen Johnson Sr. I believe you are one of God’s favorites! You have always made yourself available with great passion and drive to allow God to use you, you definitely have a “heart” to serve and protect the people of God. Because of your commitment to Christ and the call God has on your life He has been able to use you so profoundly not only at Eastern Star Church but all over the world! I’ve watched you laboring and meditating in the word for countless hours to preach…to edify...to build up...to encourage and to offer Christ to so many! God only knows how many souls have come to Christ because of your obedience to Him. “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news” Rom 10:15. You have so many characteristics of Christ. You’re FAITHFUL...Jesus did all things by trusting in God to do His will. You’re PRAYERFUL... Jesus prayed for his friends and enemies…you’re OBEDIENT… Jesus didn’t do His will but the will of God…you’re LOVING and GIVING...God so loved the world that He gave us Jesus and you’re been giving us Jesus for 30 years here at Eastern Star! Oh!! What a blessing it is to be married to a man with Godly principles and with His characteristics!! Jeffrey I love and appreciate you SO much. Thank you for being such a great and honorable husband to me. I can proudly say when often asked “ Are you Sista Johnson?” and my response is always “Yes..I am “Sista” Johnson” followed by hearing them say “I just love Pastor Johnson!!” It has been such a beautiful journey these 30 years with you as I have seen you grow and mature in Christ and me as well. I’ve tried my best to support you for these 30 years. I learned very early in our marriage that “ I can’t compete with God’s call on your life”. Some will never experience a “portion” of what I have experienced being married to such an awesome and brilliant man...and for that I’m grateful. All your many accomplishments and the heartfelt dedication you have tirelessly done for the Kingdom of God will never die!!! What a great legacy to leave not only for our sons but for the Body of Christ!! My prayer for you is that you will always find continued favor with Christ and that He will continue to equip you, strengthen you, lead you, and guide you, and for you to ALWAYS hear His voice and that you will protect your “God given gift” to preach the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Love and so proud of you️
Sharon A. Johnson
What up Bishop?
However, this year we celebrate your consistency and discipline in the area of Ministry where you have touched, influenced, and impacted so many lives for the better. You have certainly set the standard on what it means to be a pastor after God’s own heart. The heart you have for the poor, the broken and the left out mimic the heart of Jesus and the hours of labor that you put in over the last 30 years is a reminder that if faith without works is dead, faith with works brings life. Your impact in my life has now gone beyond manhood and into ministry. I am blessed to not only have you stay in my life as a father, but having the opportunity to work with you in ministry is something I don’t take for granted. I have had a small taste of your 30 years the last 3 years I have put my hand to plow. One of the things I have discovered is that ministry is not for the faint of heart. It’s not glamorous. It’s not sexy. It’s not easy. The toll that it can have on your mind, body and spirit is not something to be taken lightly. But despite your consistent commitment to your wife and your children, your work ethic, discipline and determination for the ministry that God has blessed you with has yet ceased. I pray that God will continue to give you the strength, grace and love to continue the work that He has called you for. Continue to stay faithful. I am proud to call you my father. Thank you for everything you have and continue to do for our Family. You the Man. Love you, Dad.
Jeffrey Allen Johnson II
Jeffrey Johnson II
Jeffrey Allen
Staying committed to anything for 30 years is something to be praised. From Marriage to Parenting to Ministry, you have displayed what it means to truly be a man of God. Not saying that you have been perfect, but you have certainly been righteous – understanding what the will of God is for your life, your family and your church. You’ve truly showed my brothers and me what it takes to be a man of faith.
What’s Good Doc,
Jordan Adam
I trust this letter finds you blessed. 30 years in ministry is a huge accomplishment! It displays your growth, your strength and your commitment in God’s Kingdom. I appreciate you and mother for being so influential and involved in my life when it comes to my faith in Christ. I chose Christ for myself but you exposed His goodness to me & I appreciate that from the bottom of my heart. Because of your 30 years of service in ministry I was inspired to give back to youth in my city, this nation and across the world through my own creativity and time spent with God. Because of your 30 years of service I was able to explore the world. Because of the church and your 30 years of service, I was able to have an education, experiences and opportunities that led to the success I am having today. Because of your 30 years of service in ministry, people view our family like royalty. To be honest sometimes I just want to be known as Jordan, but at the end of the day I’ll always be “Pastor Jeffrey Johnson’s Son.” I won’t and I can’t complain about that. The list goes on and on – Your influence is crazy (in a good way) and I am realizing that every day. You’ve shown me the importance of staying in the Word and keep loving and doing things with God. I appreciate Eastern Star Church, not just for the continued support but for the way you inspire others to give and support those in need. That’s amazing, to me. I appreciate the truth you’ve helped me understand in life. I appreciate the times you’d let us travel around with you to hear you preach in other places and experience different cultures. You can tell you have God’s calling because I can’t remember a time someone wasn’t inspired by God through your preaching. You’ve inspired me to be creative in the way I express what God is doing and has done in my life. Everyone has a calling and you’ve shown me how to recognize that. Your wisdom, in my perspective, is like waves to shores: when I go about my way like the waters, in due time I want to keep coming back for more of your wisdom and direction. Your intentions are with God and that’s love. I’m really not trying to make this too long. Just know that you’re loved and appreciated by your second son. It’s more than the ministry and the service. You’re my loving father and that’s a joy in itself. Stay black and peaceful. Love.
Jordan Adam Johnson
Jordan Johnson
Good tidings and Great Joy,
Jalon Alexander Johnson
Jalon
Jalon Alexander
Oh the joys and privilege of being brought up in the esteemed presence of my parents; Jeffrey Allen Johnson Sr and Lady J - I felt blessed on a daily basis growing up. What a delight it is to be in the gracious surroundings and the opportunity to take in the Godly wisdom, tranquil encouragement, and Top of the line leadership at the church and at home. Dad, the grace of God has led you all this way from one church on one street to three churches in three locations and that same grace will continue to do so in the remaining years God has for you.
Dear Father,
Josiah Andrew
Wow it has been thirty years since you’ve been in ministry at Eastern Star! I wouldn’t know what I would do if God called me to preach at seventeen years’ old. God obviously saw the greatness in you despite the environment you grew up in. Growing up I always just saw you as a loving father, who was open and honest with my brothers and I, and very supportive. I never knew the impact you had at Eastern Star, the Indianapolis community, and now the world, I just thought you just preached on Sundays and shook hands. But, as I get older and learn more about you and the church, I realize that you have done so many things and poured into so many lives. In the last thirty years in this ministry you started a school, Jewel Christian Academy, where the teachers taught the students Christian value and being proud of their blackness and not being ashamed of who they are. Also, in your ministry implementing a summer camp where the program also promotes Christian values, exposing kids early to different things where some kids might not have gotten the opportunity to without the camp, and giving kids around the main campus neighborhood an opportunity to receive free lunch since some may not have known where their next meal was coming from. I could go on about the various ways your ministry has impacted the community as a whole and brought everyone closer to God. I am proud of you on your thirty years in ministry at Eastern Star. I thank you for showing the members of the church and our family on how to effectively build the Kingdom of God and be a blessing in people’s lives. I love you. You’re the Greatest,
Josiah Andrew Johnson
Josiah Johnson
“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16
servant creative mother daughter
wife
sister
Lady Sharon A. Johnson
30 Years of Preaching Teaching and Pastoring
30 Years of Social Justice and Political Activism
30 Years of Community and Global Outreach
30 Years of Community and Global Outreach Rock Initiative
30 years of the Great Commission
“For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body...�
1 Corinthians 12:13
30
Lady Sharon Ann Johnson years of
service sacrifice &