Bishop Carlton Pearson, a prominent figure in the world of religion, passed away on Sunday night in hospice care in Tulsa due to cancer. He was 70 years old. Pearson was known for his controversial beliefs that led to his excommunication from the evangelical community, but he also gained a new audience through his advocacy for LGBTQ rights and his rejection of the traditional concept of hell. His journey from a megachurch pastor to a heretic in the eyes of many is a testament to his resilience and commitment to his beliefs.
Born on March 19, 1953, in San Diego, California, Pearson grew up in a religious household. He attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he studied music and theology. His career took off in the 1980s and 1990s when he became the pastor of the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in Tulsa, attracting a large following with his powerful preaching and soulful singing.
Rise to Prominence
In 1981, Pearson founded Higher Dimensions Family Church, which later became known as New Dimensions Church. At its peak, the church boasted a membership of around 6,000. Pearson’s dynamic sermons and charismatic personality made him a household name in evangelical Christianity, and he frequently appeared on the Trinity Broadcasting Network, reaching an international audience.
Controversial Beliefs
Despite his initial success, Pearson’s beliefs began to evolve. In the early 2000s, he publicly embraced the doctrine of universal reconciliation, also known as “inclusionism.” This belief posits that a loving God would not condemn anyone to eternal damnation, leading Pearson to reject the traditional concept of hell. His teachings were met with backlash from the evangelical community, culminating in his excommunication from the Joint College of African-American Pentecostal Bishops in 2004.
Fallout and Financial Struggles
The fallout from his controversial beliefs was significant. Many of Pearson’s former supporters abandoned him, leading to a sharp decline in his ministry’s membership and income. By 2008, the church’s membership had dwindled to a few hundred, and it ultimately lost its building to foreclosure. Pearson faced significant financial struggles during this time, forcing him to downsize his operations and sell off some of his assets.
Reinvention and Redemption
Despite these challenges, Pearson refused to be defeated. He embarked on a journey of self-discovery and reinvention, eventually finding a new calling as a proponent of progressive Christianity. His story of redemption resonated with many, and he began to rebuild his career and reputation. Pearson became an affiliate minister with All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, where he continued to preach and advocate for social justice.
Author and Activist
In addition to his work as a minister, Pearson is a prolific author and activist. He has written several books on spirituality and theology, including “The Gospel of Inclusion” and “God is Not a Christian, Nor a Jew, Muslim, Hindu…: God Dwells with Us, in Us, Around Us, as Us.” Pearson is also a vocal advocate for social justice and equality, using his platform to speak out on issues such as racial discrimination and LGBTQ rights.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Carlton Pearson’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000. While this figure is significantly lower than during his peak earning years, Pearson has managed to rebuild his financial stability through his various endeavors, including his work as a minister, author, and speaker, as well as royalties from his music and books.
Personal Life
Carlton Pearson is married to Gina Marie Gauthier, with whom he shares three children. The couple has been together for over 30 years, and Pearson credits his family with providing him strength and support throughout his tumultuous journey. His family has been a source of grounding and focus for him during challenging times.
Legacy and Impact
Carlton Pearson’s journey from evangelical superstar to outcast and ultimately to a figure of redemption is a powerful narrative of resilience and faith. His legacy as a trailblazing minister, author, and activist is secure, and he continues to inspire others to embrace inclusion, love, and compassion. Despite the challenges he faced, Pearson’s commitment to social justice and progressive Christianity has left an indelible mark on the world.
FAQs
- How old is Carlton Pearson? Carlton Pearson was born on March 19, 1953, making him 71 years old as of 2024.
- What is Carlton Pearson’s net worth? As of 2024, Carlton Pearson’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000.
- Who is Carlton Pearson married to? Carlton Pearson is married to Gina Marie Gauthier.
- How many children does Carlton Pearson have? Carlton Pearson has three children with his wife, Gina Marie Gauthier.
- What is Carlton Pearson’s most famous book? One of Carlton Pearson’s most famous books is “The Gospel of Inclusion.”
- What led to Carlton Pearson’s excommunication from the evangelical community? Carlton Pearson’s embrace of the doctrine of universal reconciliation, or inclusionism, led to his excommunication from the evangelical community.
- What social issues is Carlton Pearson passionate about? Carlton Pearson is passionate about social justice, racial equality, and LGBTQ rights.
- What impact has Carlton Pearson had on the world of religion and music? Carlton Pearson has had a significant impact on the world of religion and music through his preaching, singing, and advocacy for social justice.