Living water: Silver Valley church honors former pastor

PINEHURST — Just over a year ago, the Silver Valley was hit hard by the death of Real Life Ministeries Pastor Gene Jacobs, but over the past few weeks, the church and community came up with a way to honor his legacy.  

Pastor Kevin Kessler, who took over as the leader of the church, was recently approached by Tom and Stacey Hoffman who said they had an idea to honor Jacobs.

They’ve called it Jacobs’ Well.  

According to Stacey, Jacobs’ Well was rooted in previous experiences, with a desire to honor both Jacobs and his wife, Christy. But also, to highlight his passion for serving people.

“Initially, I was thinking of something Tom and I could do, as we both really miss him, and Christy is still a part of the church and our lives,” Stacey said. “I wanted it to be meaningful, something more than a plaque or a one-time donation to an organization. I wanted it to reflect Gene’s love for people and his deep desire to help further people’s spiritual journey.”  

Over a decade ago, the Hoffmans planted freshwater wells in India, in honor of their parents. The idea of planting one in memory of Jacobs seemed almost too easy.

“Planting a well would check the boxes I had formed in my mind,” Stacey said. “It meets a very real physical need. Cholera is a real issue in India, and though Hindu temples in each town often have wells, only Hindus in good standing are allowed to use them. This well would be open to anyone.”  

Kessler and Hoffman said Jacobs had a reputation for being a champion of the people. He wasn’t concerned about societal statuses or where people were in their faith, or if they had any faith at all. He wanted to be their friend.  

“Gene had gone on a few mission trips over the years,” Kessler said. “He just really had a heart for lost people."

Kessler put the idea in front of the church and challenged them to raise $2,500 for the project, which was not only met but surpassed. 

Kessler said the well will likely be built in India, but Africa is also being considered. The well is being planned through Ripe for Harvest World Outreach.

Kessler and the Hoffmans are hoping this endeavor will demonstrate a literal and figurative embodiment of John 7:38, which speaks of “living water,” and how those who believe in Christ have the opportunity to spread his love.  

The tragic nature of Jacobs' suicide opened several doors for Kessler and his congregation, particularly in how Real Life Silver Valley tackles mental health.  

“A lot of people struggle with the ‘warrior mentality’ that tells them they need to toughen up, not talk about how we’re feeling, and if we have just enough faith, we’ll get through on our own," Kessler said. "That isn’t reality, and it isn’t healthy.”  

Kessler has implemented mandatory quarterly counseling for his church leaders, along with a grief sharing ministry, an addiction recovery ministry and several other outlets for those who need help.  

“I’m in a good place and I think a lot of our people are too,” Kessler said. “There’s a lot of stuff to look forward to, and we want people to be able to enjoy that without feeling any guilt about Gene. We like to say that we’re moving forward, not moving on.”  

Kessler and his leadership are working toward establishing a fund in Jacobs' memory that will go toward outreach projects.

Info: Pastor Kevin Kessler at Real Life Ministries Silver Valley at 208-682-4801.