Carlton Pearson, Progressive Megachurch Founder, Passes Away at 70

Carlton Pearson, the esteemed founder of an Oklahoma-based megachurch and a pioneering advocate for gay rights within the Christian community, has died at the age of 70. Pearson was widely recognized for his charismatic leadership and his radical theological move when he publicly denounced the concept of hell—a position that both drew controversy and admiration from different factions within the Christian faith.

An Influential Religious Reformer

Pearson's ministry reached its zenith when his Higher Dimensions Family Church, which he founded in Tulsa, Oklahoma, attracted a congregation running into the thousands. As a prominent African American leader, his divergence from traditional religious dogma sparked intense debate and a significant shift among believers, with some renouncing his teachings while others rallied around his more inclusive vision of Christianity.

Advocacy for LGBT Rights and Inclusion

Perhaps one of Pearson's most lasting impacts is his support for LGBT rights, positioning him as one of the earliest proponents for gay inclusion in evangelical circles. His stance put him at odds with many conservative church leaders but also cemented his legacy as a reformist voice driven by a message of unconditional love and acceptance.

The Legacy of Love without Hell

Pearson's doctrine, which became known as the 'Gospel of Inclusion,' suggested that a loving God would not condemn souls to eternal damnation. This universalist approach radically challenged the hellfire and brimstone preaching prevalent in many evangelical churches. Despite the controversy, Pearson's message resonated with a growing segment of the population seeking a more compassionate and inclusive religious experience.

influential, megachurch, gayrights