Jacobson converts faith into action; why Jim Jacobson of Christian Freedom International delivers the Word of God and a gospel of self-reliance to Christians persecuted in any corner of the world

0 Comments | Insight on the News, August 12, 2002 | by Hans S. Nichols

Insight: For American Christians who want to help all these persecuted Christians, your organization seems like a very worthy place, what can they do to help?

JJ: We got into this self-help thing as a market-based approach to provide assistance. We say, "If you buy this desk made by refugees, for example, it is going to help a Christian. You get this beautiful product and the profits go back to the Christian communities."

Jim Jacobson: The Christian activist has positioned himself as a middleman, marketing to the world the ethnic handicrafts and wares of the persecuted.

Currently: Executive director, Christian Freedom International.

Born: July 31, 1962; Marlette, Mich.

Family: Wife, Karen; married 17 years. Four children whom they homeschooled.

Education: University of Michigan, B.A., double major in mathematics and history.

Employment highlights: High-school teacher; Reagan White House Office of Policy Development under Gary Bauer; aide to Sen. Gordon Humphrey (R-N.H.).

Favorite Book: Witness by Whittaker Chambers:

On his nightstand: The Wealth and Poverty of Nations: Why Some Are So Rich and Some So Poor by David S. Landes.

Favorite movie: The Patriot.

HANS S. NICHOLS IS A REPORTER FOR Insight.