Jackson Pastor Loses Parsonage in Fire

Northend Church to host Feb. 7 drive to help Pastor Luther Martin replace essentials

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A parsonage belonging to Pastor Luther Martin of the Mississippi Southern First Jurisdiction in Jackson was destroyed in a Jan. 27 fire, leaving the pastor and his family with virtually nothing. The Jackson Fire Department was unable to determine the cause of the blaze. Church leaders are now asking congregations, neighbors, and friends to rally and provide financial assistance for the Martins, who were uninsured.

Why it matters

Parsonages are often the homes provided by churches for their pastors and their families. The loss of a parsonage can be devastating, especially when the pastor and their family are left without insurance to cover the damages. This story highlights the importance of community support for religious leaders during times of crisis.

The details

The parsonage belonging to Pastor Luther Martin, located on Floral Drive in Jackson, was completely destroyed in the Jan. 27 fire. The Jackson Fire Department was unable to determine the cause of the blaze due to the extensive damage. Church leaders are now organizing a drive on Feb. 7 at the Northend Church of God in Christ to collect monetary donations and provide immediate financial assistance to the Martins for clothing, housing, and other daily essentials.

  • The parsonage fire occurred on January 27, 2026.
  • The community drive to support the Martins is planned for 6 p.m. on February 7, 2026.

The players

Pastor Luther Martin

The pastor of the Mississippi Southern First Jurisdiction whose parsonage was destroyed in the fire.

Northend Church of God in Christ

The church hosting the Feb. 7 drive to collect donations for Pastor Martin and his family.

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What’s next

Organizers said monetary donations are welcome, and those who cannot attend the drive were asked to contact the Northend Church of God in Christ for other ways to help the Martin family.

The takeaway

This tragic fire highlights the importance of community support for religious leaders and their families, especially when they face unexpected disasters without the safety net of insurance. The outpouring of aid from the Jackson community demonstrates the power of coming together in times of need.