Carlton D'metrius Pearson was born on March 19, 1953 in San Diego, California. Pierson grew up in a traditional Christian family and his upbringing was steeped in religious values. His parents were devout Christians who influenced his early spiritual development. Pearson showed a passion for preaching and ministry from an early age, regularly attending church events and preaching.
Pearson's academic journey took him to Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he pursued degrees in biblical studies and sacred music. While in college, Pearson's charismatic personality and powerful speaking skills caught the attention of Oral Roberts, the university's founder. This connection was crucial in shaping Pearson's future career.
Profession
The beginning of service
Carlton Pierson began his ministry career under the direction of Oral Roberts. After graduation, he served as associate evangelist at Oral Roberts Ministries. Pearson's dynamic preaching style and ability to connect with his audience quickly established him as a rising star in the evangelical community.
In 1981, Pearson founded the Govey Evangelical Center in Tulsa, which later became known as Govey House Church. The church grew rapidly, attracting thousands of worshipers and becoming one of the largest churches in the region. Pearson's message of hope, prosperity and faith resonated with a diverse audience.
Gospel of Inclusion
The most important and controversial phase of Pearson's career came in the early 2000s, when he began preaching what he called the “gospel of inclusion.” This doctrine holds that salvation is not exclusive to Christians but is available to all humans regardless of faith. This radical departure from traditional Christian teaching sparked widespread debate and criticism.
Pierson faced strong opposition from evangelical groups, leading to his ostracism. His church membership dwindled and he was declared a heretic by many of his colleagues. Despite the criticism, Pearson remains steadfast in her convictions and continues to preach and write about the gospel of inclusion.
later career
After leaving the traditional evangelical circuit, Pearson turned his attention to broader spiritual teachings and social justice issues. He became a sought-after speaker and author on topics such as racial reconciliation, LGBTQ+ rights, and interfaith dialogue. Pearson's work has gained recognition beyond the religious community, earning him a place in mainstream media and popular culture.
In 2018, Netflix released a biographical film called “Sunday Comes,” chronicling Pearson's life and the controversy surrounding his teachings. Starring Chiwetel Ejiofor as Pearson, the film told his story to a global audience and reignited discussions about his revolutionary beliefs.
interpersonal relationships
Carlton Pearson's personal life was marked by important relationships and family ties. He married Gina Marie Gauthier in 1993 and they have two children. Their marriage endured the many challenges posed by Pearson's career and public controversy.
Pierson often spoke of the support and strength he received from his family, especially his wife, who has been a steady companion throughout his journey. Their relationship is a testament to their shared commitment to each other and their faith.
real estate
Carlton Pearson's success in ministry and speaking provided him with opportunities to invest in real estate. He has owned several properties over the years, primarily in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His real estate portfolio includes residential and commercial real estate, reflecting his business acumen and investment strategy.
One of his notable properties is a luxurious home located in a prestigious Tulsa neighborhood. Known for its elegant architecture and extensive grounds, the home served as a private retreat for Pearson and his family. In addition, Pearson has invested in rental properties, which generate a steady income stream.
net worth
As of 2024, Carlton Pearson has an estimated net worth of approximately $16 million. The fortune comes from a decades-long career in ministry, book sales, speaking and real estate investing. Although he faced financial setbacks amid the Inclusive Gospel controversy, Pearson's diverse income streams have given him a substantial net worth.
age
As of 2024, Carlton Pearson is 71 years old.
Other noteworthy aspects
Authors and speakers
In addition to his ministry work, Pearson is a prolific author and speaker. He has written several books, including “The Gospel of Inclusion,” “God is Not a Christian, nor a Jew, nor a Jew, nor a Muslim, nor a Hindu…” and “The Gospel of Inclusion: Beyond Fundamentalism to Access God's True Love.” These works explore his theological beliefs and advocate for a more inclusive approach to spirituality.
Pearson's speaking engagements have taken him throughout the United States and internationally. He speaks to diverse audiences ranging from religious groups to academic institutions, sharing his insights on faith, social justice, and relationships.
media appearances
Pearson's stories and teachings have made him a prominent figure in the media world. He has appeared on various television shows, radio shows, and podcasts to discuss his faith and the impact of the gospel of inclusion. His ability to articulate complex theological concepts in a simple and understandable way has made him a popular guest on talk shows and news programs.
legacy and impact
Carlton Pearson’s legacy is a complex and multifaceted one. While he faced significant opposition and personal loss due to his controversial beliefs, his unwavering commitment to inclusion and social justice inspired many. Pearson's journey from prominent evangelical preacher to proponent of universal salvation highlights the evolving nature of religious thought and the ongoing struggle for acceptance and understanding.
in conclusion
Carlton Pearson's life and career embody an extraordinary blend of triumph and trial. From his early days as a rising star in evangelical circles to his current role as a progressive spiritual leader, Pearson's story is one of resilience and transformation. His teachings continue to challenge traditional beliefs and encourage a more inclusive approach to faith and spirituality. With a net worth of $16 million and a legacy that transcends religious boundaries, Carlton Pearson remains an important figure in contemporary religious and social discourse.