20-year-old Ken’ Darion Jones elected Senior Pastor at Bright Morning Star M.B. Church

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — At just 20 years old, Ken’ Darion Jones has been elected as the new senior pastor of Bright Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Vicksburg.

Jones, a 2023 graduate of Vicksburg High School and current Hinds Community College student, takes on the role following the death of Rev. Reginald Harris, who led the church for more than 20 years before passing in May.

“It’s a bittersweet moment but I’m excited about what God has done,” Jones said. “If you would have told me this when I was 14 I would’ve said no way, but I’m still excited.”

Jones previously served as youth pastor at Travelers Rest Missionary Baptist Church. After preaching one Saturday each month at Bright Star, a deacon approached him about considering the senior pastor role.

On Sunday, Jones preached as a guest and learned 30 minutes later that he had been elected. His first sermon as senior pastor will be on the second Sunday.

“I was tossing and turning last night, but when I made it to the church this morning I felt like I was getting sick and my heart was beating out my chest,” Jones said. “But when I saw my family sitting in the congregation I felt alright.”

More than 25 young people joined the church that same day. Jones’ final sermon as a guest pastor was titled “God Don’t Play About Me.”

“In order to grow the church, we have to go out into the community and compel people to come to Christ because nobody will come to Christ if you don’t go out and get them,” he said. “Nothing is about me because it’s all about God.”

Harris was remembered as an honorable man who faithfully led Bright Star until his death earlier this year.

“He’s a giant,” Jones said. “Those are some big shoes to fill and we’re going to honor his legacy in every way we can.”