Ricky Jenkins is the Senior Pastor of Southwest Church in Indian Wells, CA. Southwest is a thriving community of believers compelled by its vision to be a Gospel-Centered, Multiethnic, Intergenerational church that LOVES Discipleship! Located in the heart of the Coachella Valley, Southwest is one of the fastest-growing churches in the nation who have been praying fervently for revival in our times.
From his beginnings in Pearl, Mississippi, all the way to Oakland, California, to Memphis, Tennessee, and Chicago, Illinois, Ricky has been preaching the gospel for over 20 years. Fueled by Acts 20:28, Ricky is called to pursue God passionately and pursue God’s people compassionately for the glory and honor of Jesus Christ. With a shepherd’s heart, Ricky’s preaching weaves together biblical exposition, vivid illustration, heartfelt application, and an extra helping of humor with which to convey the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ.
Ricky is married to the light of his heart, April Jenkins. Together they have three beautiful children—Camden, Grand, and Andi. Ricky is currently pursuing a PhD in Historical Theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago, IL. His research interests revolve around pastoral leadership, racial reconciliation, and issues of justice during the Civil Rights movement. The Jenkins’ have been serving in the Coachella Valley since January of 2018. They enjoy opening their home to create safe spaces where the gospel can flourish and memories can be made.