Vanessa Macklin, a native of Portland, Oregon, was a special gift from God to her spiritually devout parents, the late Superintendent Booker T. and Mother Theda Wells, pastoral leaders of Mount Zion Church of God in Christ. Her early nurturing spiritual environment made a deep impact upon Lady Vanessa. This resulted in her participation in vital ministries within her local church. A confluence of factors impacted her choice to pursue her primary academic education at Saints Academy and Saints Jr. College during the tenure of the late Dr. Arenia C. Mallory, the premiere educator of COGIC and protégé of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. Lady Vanessa’s quest for life and deep sensitivity led to the discovery of her life partner, Jerry Wayne Macklin. Their partnership resulted in the founding of Glad Tidings International COGIC during the late seventies in the city of Hayward, California.
Lady Vanessa’s commitment to parenting was reinforced by the birth and development of five (5) spiritually devoted children, Mataya, Jerwayne, Mallori, Aaron and Jessica. With gratitude and joy she reflects and speak of her sons-in-law, Will Robinson, Aaron Mayfield and Seth Cunningkin; her daughters-in-law, Erica and Krystle, and ten (10) incredible grandchildren. Her family, in spite of varied challenges that life brings, is a testimony to the promises and faithfulness of God.
Lady Macklin’s commitment to Jesus Christ is manifested in her ministry to the marginalized and “least among us.” Her continuing passion for children through community outreach programs such as Black Adoption and Foster Care led to her emergence as Co-Chair of Alameda County Faith Advisory Council. As a program associate and counselor, she was instrumental in launching the Institute for Success, a Welfare-to-Work Initiative in Southern Alameda County.
Prior to her county involvement, she was founder and director of Glad Tidings Pre-School. Her compassionate presence made her community and church a better place to live and serve.
With her own unique style, charismatic approach, and powerful anointing, Missionary Vanessa Macklin has emerged as a profound proclaimer of the message of holiness in our troubled world. A much sought after speaker and conference facilitator, Lady Macklin continues to serve as the director of Cover Girls, the Glad Tidings Women’s Ministry. Her annual conference has attracted thousands of women from all walks of life. The conference delegates receive support, encouragement, and strength for life crises, struggles, and dreams.
Lady Macklin is not only a co-partner in ministry, but also the First Lady of the NorCal Metropolitan Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction with her husband of 40+ years, Bishop Jerry W. Macklin, 1st Assistant Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ.
