Our Leaders

Bishop Halsey D. Watkins Jr. is a Fort Myers, Florida Native. He was born the first son of three children to longtime entrepreneurs, philanthropist, and Civic Leaders, the late Halsey & Ethel Watkins. Bishop Watkins and his lovely wife, Dr. Linda W. Watkins recently celebrated 48 years of marital bliss on March 18^th. They are the parents to five amazing children; Minister Halsey D. Watkins III, Sgt. First Class Sonianica Watkins, Austin A. Watkins Sr., Autumn J. Holloway, and Justin J. Watkins Sr. They are the proud grandparents to 23 adorable grandchildren and four great-grands.

Bishop Watkins graduated from Ft. Myers High School, attended Albany State University and graduated from the Institute of Ministry, The Advanced Theological Seminary, and Liberty Bible College. He is a member of the Association of Independent Ministries (A.I.M.), under Bishop I.V. Hillard and Lady Bridgette Hillard. He has served as an instructor at The Advanced Theological Seminary, Extension and also dean of JCOC Christian Preparatory Academy. Bishop Watkins is a retired business entrepreneur of Watkins Grocery, Watkins Tastee Treats, and H & H Discount Groceries. He and his wife are the founders of Jesus Christ Outreach Center of Fort Myers, Inc. where they have served faithfully as Sr. Pastor and Co-Pastor since 1989.

Bishop and Dr. Watkins are diligent pastors that love the Lord and His people. They have implemented numerous programs and outreach ministries that help to improve the quality of life and restore hope throughout the community. When it comes to our youth they are always there to give support and biblical guidance through programs such as B.A.M. (Becoming a Man), God’s G.I.F.T. (Girls in Feminine Training), J.O.Y. (Jesus Ordered Youth), a Prison Ministry, and an Outdoor Gospel Mission Ministry. Bishop and Dr. Watkins have partnered with other ministries to provide food, clothing and financial support to families in need during disastrous times in New Orleans, Louisiana, Hati and throughout the states of Florida and Georgia. They are committed to teaching the good news of Jesus Christ with simplicity and understanding to people near and far. From their ministry over five additional churches have been established through the states of Florida and Georgia. As they continue to do the Lord’s work their motto scripture is “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6