How following Christ transforms a life
The life of Apostle Jacqueline Peart is a prime example of how the trajectory of an individual’s life changes when they make that decision to become a Christian. She recently celebrated her 30th anniversary of following Christ. A ministry leader, businesswoman, trainer and author, Apostle Peart is one of the UK’s most well-known Black female preachers/speakers, and is viewed as a leader of leaders, through her training programmes, designed to enable people to develop and expand their leadership capacity, which have a focus on spiritual and emotional wholeness.
Apostle Peart spoke to Keep The Faith about her journey to faith in Christ, her journey to ministry leadership, and her plans for the future.
KEEP THE FAITH (KTF): Can you share the story of how you became a Christian 30 years ago, and what led you to that decision?
APOSTLE JACQUELINE PEART (AJP): I attended church until my early teens but left to find my own path. Then, in my mid-20s, while saving for my first house, my deposit ran low and a coworker suggested I pray, saying God could help if I believed. Though sceptical, I remembered some of the biblical teachings from childhood, and something stirred in me. As I prayed, I found myself weeping. I said: “God, if You’re real, I want to know You.” A simple prayer, but I believe that’s when I became a Christian. I eventually confirmed my faith at a friend’s church in January 1995.
KTF: How did your faith transform your life in those early years, and what impact did it have on your personal and professional journey?
AJP: One of the most impactful things my faith did in my early years was to secure my identity in Christ. Before then, my identity was measured by external factors, such as job, relationship and financial status. Seeing myself through Christ’s eyes and through His Word transformed me! Also, learning that God has a purpose and plan for us all was something else that set me on a fresh trajectory – personally and professionally. In those early days, God also spoke to me about leaving full-time employment and starting a ministry and business, which I did between 1995 and 1997.
KTF: You started reciting poetry soon after becoming a Christian. What role did poetry play in your spiritual growth?
AJP: I believe poetry helped me learn to hear God’s voice. Before 1997, I’d never written poetry – I didn’t even like it! Everything changed during a family holiday in Portugal during a gratitude fast. During that time, I felt led to write what I heard, and it sparked a journey. Some 28 years later, six of my 11 books are inspirational poetry. Poetry hasn’t only deepened my faith but has also ministered healing, encouragement and challenge to me. Many people have shared how my poetry has impacted their lives, helping them to grow spiritually and deepen their connection with God.
KTF: How did you transition from poetry to teaching, to founding Deep Calleth Unto Deep? Was there a specific moment that made you realise this was your calling?
AJP: Things shifted in 1997 when my church invited me to lead a workshop at a retreat, and I sensed a greater calling to serve the Kingdom. Two specific moments confirmed this: a pastor’s words after I shared poetry – he said if my poetry was this impactful, he wanted to invite me to preach. Secondly, a leading UK pastor encouraged me not to pigeonhole myself because he saw a ministry of inner healing beyond my books. As an experienced management consultant and leadership coach, I knew the Church could benefit from some of the tools and techniques available, so I began to train leadership teams and speak at church events.
KTF: Deep Calleth Unto has helped many women experience wholeness. What inspired you to focus on this aspect of ministry?
AJP: From the moment I was saved, I’ve longed for a real, relevant and complete relationship with Christ. John 10:10 reveals Christ’s desire for us to live a whole life, yet so many are saved but not whole. Spiritually astute, focused and growing, yet emotionally, physically, financially, socially or relationally broken. After several prophetic words over my life, I realised ‘wholeness’ was key to my God-given assignment – after all, we teach best what we’ve learned or are learning. This move coincided with the transition from Deep Calleth Unto Deep to Jacqueline Peart International Ministries in 2010.
KTF: What are some of the most profound lessons you’ve learnt while leading and equipping others for ministry?
AJP: There are many. Wholeness is key. To lead balanced lives and ministries, we must be equipped to live from a place of wholeness. Broken vessels leak and hinder effectiveness. Secondly, leadership isn’t about a title but servanthood and a love for the people you serve. If you don’t care, it becomes a job, not a call. Thirdly, not everyone will understand your calling, but obedience is better than sacrifice, so do it anyway. Fourthly, prioritise self-care, rest and boundaries – that’s essential for longevity. Finally – and this can be a hard one –people who are hurt need loving the most.
KTF: Ministry comes with its share of challenges. What have been some of the biggest obstacles you’ve faced, and how have you navigated them?
AJP: Ministry brings many challenges, and one of the biggest for me has been dealing with criticism and misunderstanding that can arise – whether that’s the expectations of others while trying to stay true to God’s call, or navigating gender debates regarding women in ministry and whether we have a role in leadership. I’ve learnt to lean in on prayer, get guidance and support from trusted wise counsel, and stand on what God’s Word says about each situation.
KTF: The landscape of faith leadership is evolving. How have you adapted to changes in the Church and wider society over the years?
AJP: A major shift in ministry has been recognising the necessity of team leadership. It’s no longer about one person doing everything, but about empowering others and working together as a unified body. With global communication and influence growing, I’ve focused on building strong teams and mentoring leaders to take ownership of various areas. Additionally, there’s an increasing emphasis on addressing real community needs, such as mental health and social justice. We’ve also been embracing technology, including social media, livestreaming, and digital platforms, to reach and engage with broader, more diverse communities, ensuring the ministry stays relevant in today’s world.
KTF: Tell us more about your new Wholeness Academy. What is its vision, and how do you hope it will impact the next generation of leaders?
AJP: The Wholeness Academy was birthed in 2011 when I was ready to give up on ministry – not God – on the struggle to encourage others to embrace wholeness. It runs programmes and courses for leaders and individuals aimed at equipping them to live and lead in wholeness – essentially, the abundant life Jesus spoke of in John 10:10. The next generation of leaders needs wholeness to guide others, because no one can pour out of a broken or empty cup. The Academy helps individuals find their identity in Christ, purpose, security in God, and to cultivate intimacy with Jesus.
KTF: What advice would you give to women who feel called to ministry but struggle with confidence or direction?
AJP: Embrace your unique calling. Trust that God has equipped you for this journey, even if the path isn’t clear yet. Get support from trusted leaders, and, with their guidance, take the first step. Know your identity is in Christ, not in the approval of others. Seek mentorship from women who have walked the path you believe God is calling you to, and start serving wherever you are. Each step of faith builds confidence. Don’t compare your journey to others; trust God’s timing. Keep learning, praying, and refining your skills. Finally, remember, God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
KTF: Looking ahead, what are your hopes and plans for the future of your ministry and your personal journey of faith?
AJP: In this next season, I’m joyfully releasing those I’ve trained to step into leadership roles, empowering them to lead key areas of the ministry. This allows me to focus on speaking, teaching and leadership coaching and development to reach lives across the globe. I’m also intentional about getting my books into the hands of individuals, believing they will positively transform lives. Finally, on a personal note, I’m excited about deeper encounters in God’s presence, knowing it will fuel the expansion of His Kingdom in ways beyond what I can imagine.
For more information, visit www.jacquelinepeart.com
