Carlton Pearson

Carlton Pearson (born 1953) is an American evangelist, pastor, and gospel musician who gained prominence in the 1990s as a charismatic religious leader and worship innovator. Ordained as a minister in the Church of God in Christ, Pearson founded the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and became known for his energetic preaching style and contemporary gospel music. His ministry initially flourished, attracting thousands of congregants and achieving significant influence within African American evangelical circles. However, Pearson's career took a dramatic turn when he began publicly advocating for universal reconciliation—the theological position that all souls will ultimately be saved—which contradicted traditional evangelical doctrine emphasizing hell and eternal damnation. This shift led to his removal from his denomination, loss of much of his congregation and financial support, and significant public controversy. Despite these setbacks, Pearson continued his ministry and has since become an influential voice in progressive Christianity, speaking about spiritual inclusivity and redefining concepts of salvation. His journey has been documented in various media and represents a significant moment in the evolution of African American religious thought.