Carlton Pearson has an estimated net worth of $16 million as of 2024. Carlton Pearson is an American Christian minister and gospel music artist.
Once a prominent figure in the Pentecostal church, he later faced controversy for his belief in universalism, which suggests that everyone will eventually be saved.
Pearson’s journey has been marked by both success and challenges. After losing many followers due to his beliefs, he continued to share his message through various platforms, including books and public speaking events.
Carlton Pearson Wiki Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Carlton D’Metrius Pearson |
| Born | March 8, 1953 |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Speaker |
| Known For | Gospel of Inclusion and Universalism |
| Notable Work | Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center |
| Location | Tulsa, Oklahoma |
| Controversy Year | Labeled a heretic in 2004 due to his beliefs |
| Themes Explored | Faith, Acceptance, Reconciliation |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Carlton Pearson was born on March 19, 1953, in San Diego, California. He grew up in a religious family of African American Pentecostal preachers. His father and grandfather both served as pastors. From a young age, Pearson showed an interest in preaching.
Pearson attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. At the university, he formed a close bond with its founder, televangelist Oral Roberts. During his time there, he received mentorship from Roberts and sang with the World Action Singers.
After finishing high school, Pearson enrolled at Oral Roberts University but left before graduating in 1977. He then founded his own church called Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in Tulsa. The church quickly grew and became one of the largest churches in the city.
His early career included significant success through his weekly televised service named “Ever Increasing Faith.” This program reached millions of viewers around the world and helped establish him as a well-known figure within the religious community.
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Major Career Highlights
Founding of Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center: In 1981, Carlton Pearson founded the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This church grew rapidly and became one of the largest in the city, attracting over 6,000 attendees weekly.
Television Ministry: Pearson hosted a national television show that reached millions. He was among the first black preachers with a national presence, contributing to discussions on faith and spirituality.
Azusa Conference: Pearson organized the annual Azusa Conference, a seven-day event that drew between 40,000 and 50,000 attendees from around the world. This conference played a significant role in launching many careers of notable Christian artists and preachers.
Gospel Music Career: As a successful gospel singer, Pearson contributed to music as a founding member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, helping to shape gospel music’s future while inspiring many through his performances.
Carlton Pearson Net Worth and Income Sources
Carlton Pearson had a net worth of $16 million at the time of his death in November 2023. His wealth came from various sources:
- Ministry: Pearson founded the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in 1981. This church grew to be one of the largest in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with an average attendance exceeding 6,000 people during the 1990s.
- Gospel Music Career: As a successful gospel singer, he won two Stellar Awards and received nominations for a Dove Award. His album sales, especially from popular albums like “Live at Azusa” and “The Best of Carlton Pearson,” played a significant role in his income.
- Book Sales: Pearson wrote several books that contributed to his earnings. One notable book is “The Gospel of Inclusion: Reaching Beyond Religious Fundamentalism to the True Love of God.”
These income sources reflect Pearson’s diverse career and his impact on both ministry and music.
Notable Achievements and Awards
Carlton Pearson achieved many significant milestones in his life and career.
- Founding Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center: In 1981, Pearson established the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in Jenks, Oklahoma. This church grew to serve over 5,000 members, making it one of the largest churches in Tulsa.
- Annual AZUSA Conference: Pearson initiated the annual AZUSA Conference in 1988. This event attracted up to 70,000 attendees, providing a major boost to the local economy.
- Television Ministry: He developed a nationwide television ministry. This made him one of only two African-American preachers with such a broad reach across the country.
- Counseling US Presidents: Over his career, Pearson provided counsel to several U.S. presidents, including George W. Bush and Bill Clinton.
Awards and Nominations
Pearson received recognition for his contributions to gospel music:
- Stellar Awards: He won three Stellar Awards for his albums titled “Live at AZUSA.” These awards celebrate outstanding achievements in gospel music.
These accomplishments highlight Carlton Pearson’s influence in both ministry and music throughout his lifetime.
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Personal Life and Legal Issues
Carlton Pearson’s personal life includes significant milestones. He married Gina Marie Gauthier on September 3, 1993, at the age of 40. They have two children: Julian D’Metrius Pearson, born on July 9, 1994, and Majestè Amour Pearson, born on October 29, 1996.
In August 2015, Gina Pearson filed for divorce but later dismissed the petition in May 2016. The divorce was finalized on October 3, 2019.
Pearson faced legal challenges as well. His church building was foreclosed in 2006 due to issues related to his “Gospel of Inclusion” teachings. This controversy led to a decline in his congregation size.
Additionally, he attempted to enter politics by running for mayor of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2002. However, this bid did not succeed during the primary election.
Carlton Pearson Wife and Partner
Carlton Pearson was married to Gina Marie Gauthier from 1993 to 2019. Their marriage lasted for 26 years and produced two children. The couple’s children are Julian D’Metrius Pearson and Majeste Amour Pearson.
Throughout their marriage, they shared many personal and professional experiences, navigating the ups and downs of life together.
In recent years, Pearson’s relationship with his wife transitioned as they went through a divorce. Despite this change, their focus remained on co-parenting their children effectively.
Carlton Pearson Age, Weight, and Height
Carlton Pearson was born on March 19, 1953, in San Diego, California. He passed away on November 19, 2023, at the age of 70. If he were alive in 2024, he would be 71 years old.
Regarding his physical characteristics, Pearson had an average height and weight. He maintained a well-developed body throughout his life. His hair color was dark brown, and he had shimmering black eyes.
Conclusion
Carlton Pearson’s journey reflects a profound commitment to his beliefs and an unwavering dedication to spreading a message of inclusion. His impact on the religious landscape is undeniable, as he challenged traditional dogmas and sought to redefine faith through love and acceptance.
Despite facing significant obstacles throughout his life, including personal and professional setbacks, Pearson remained true to his vision. His legacy continues to inspire those who seek a more compassionate approach within spirituality.
As voices for change emerge, the essence of Pearson’s teachings resonates with many, encouraging ongoing dialogue about faith in today’s diverse world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Carlton Pearson?
Carlton Pearson was a prominent African American Pentecostal preacher, gospel singer, and founder of the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in Tulsa. He was known for his “Gospel of Inclusion” message, which promoted faith and love.
What is the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center?
Founded by Carlton Pearson in 1981, the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center was a church located in Tulsa that attracted large crowds and gained national recognition for its inclusive teachings.
What notable achievements did Carlton Pearson have?
Pearson launched the annual AZUSA Conference, created a nationwide television ministry, won three Stellar Awards for gospel music, and advised U.S. presidents during his career.
Why did Carlton Pearson face criticism?
He faced criticism primarily for his “Gospel of Inclusion,” which challenged traditional beliefs about salvation and heaven. This controversial stance led to legal challenges and a decline in congregation size.
When did Carlton Pearson pass away?
Carlton Pearson passed away on November 19, 2023, at the age of 70. If he were alive in 2024, he would have turned 71 years old.
Was Carlton Pearson involved in politics?
Yes, he ran for mayor of Tulsa in 2002 but was unsuccessful in his political venture. His focus remained largely on ministry and music throughout his career.
How long was Carlton Pearson married?
Carlton Pearson was married to Gina Marie Gauthier from 1993 until their divorce in 2019. They co-parent two children together following their separation.
What are some physical attributes of Carlton Pearson?
Carlton Pearson had an average height and weight with dark brown hair and shimmering black eyes. These characteristics contributed to his distinct presence as a public figure.
