Show Love for the McKenzie Family's Transition to Mobile, AL

To show our love and support for Jonathan & Cindy McKenzie and their children, we want to help them financially with their move to Mobile, Alabama. Both parents, excellent musicians and loving children’s ministers, were unexpectedly and shockingly left unemployed by their church leadership. Most of you in their orbit are aware of the heartbreaking circumstances and how they’ve been widely followed in our community and beyond.

The McKenzies had to put their house on the market, and they’re leaving Laurel and their family and friends for employment in Mobile, Alabama, having to transition their children from friends and activities at a critical age. Jonathan, his mother’s primary caregiver, must now maintain his mother’s costly care from a distance or move her with them to unfamiliar surroundings at a time of her life when she is unable to comprehend sweeping change. Many in Jonathan’s choir and many children of Cindy’s ministry have been left devastated and heartbroken. The long-time staff musicians resigned, a 35-year secretary and church member fired for public support, and resignations of Jonathan and the pastor’s secretary, technical crew, volunteer orchestra musicians, and several Sunday School teachers. The goal is to help the McKenzie Family pay off their mortgage and help them buy another home without financial burden. We also want to supplement the inadequate severance provided by church leadership to coerce them to resign or otherwise be dismissed without it when they have a family of five to support. Though we can’t fully compensate for their pain and displacement, we ask you to show your love and support as much as this wonderful South Mississippi community can over the next month. Please give generously and help widely spread the word about this campaign and its link. Let’s demonstrate our love, appreciation, and support as we grieve the loss of their future outstanding contributions to our community.

The campaign culminates in a farewell gathering at Edgar’s Steakhouse at Dixie Golf Club in Laurel, MS, on Saturday, May 3, 2025. It’s a come-and-go reception from 1:00 to 4:00 PM where you can say goodbye to the McKenzies and express your love and support. This reception is for all, regardless of your ability to give. Everyone is invited, whether you can give or not. Any love and support shown, no matter the size, will be deeply appreciated and affirming to the McKenzie family. We sincerely thank you for considering your worthy support of a much-loved family. Additionally, if you choose not to use this site, you may give your offering directly to the McKenzies at the event.