Black History Month wouldn’t be the same without the efforts of Dr. Teresa Hairston and Gospel Today Magazine. For the last few years, Hairston has sponsored “The Gospel Heritage Praise and Worship Conference”, paying homage to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., while opening doors for those who love good Gospel Music through musical performances, seminars, and ministry.
For over 20 years, Gospel Today Magazine has used it’s platform of written communication to educate it’s readers about the African American experience, while promoting some of the hottest Urban Gospel Contemporary artists and projects around. February 17th-19th, 2011 will mark yet another chapter in that book as Dr. Hairston prepares for another conference. “This conference is about how Gospel Music changes lives, “ states, Dr. Hairston. “As always we’re going to feature artist from around the country, highlighting music and ministry. This conference affects the lives of a lot of people, and gives us the ability to share the story of so many. We still have great moments to celebrate. We still have a lot to do”. Some of the participants for the week in question include Bishop Kenneth Ulmer, Singer VaShawn Mitchell and Bishop Hezekiah Walker. On Friday look for Pastor Sheryl Brady of The Potters House, and on Saturday Pastor Donnie McClurkin will be ministering with singer Jonathan Nelson and others providing the entertainment.
“Dr. King sacrificed his life for our culture, “ continues Hairston. “My goal with this conference is to allow people to see the big picture here. How Dr. King’s approach to the issues of this country and the world impacted a lot of people. Through this conference people’s lives are changed. We the media have the power to tell these stories and it’s important that we do so. It’s always been my mission to create projects where you celebrate people and we still have many great moments to celebrate”. Also participating in the event will be the Dove Award Nominated Singer Melinda Watts, who recently recorded with J. Moss, Smokie Norful, and a host of others. “This will be my first time as part of this event”, explains Watts. “ My goal is to bring a relevant sound, communicating in a manner people can relate. This is about ministry and I see the Gospel Heritage event as an opportunity to minister to a multitude of people, therefore I’m very glad to be part of it”. Watts is set to sing before Pastor McClurkin delivers the word of God.
Dr. Hairston is also scheduled to receive a Community Service Award for 25 years of service. For more information about The Gospel Heritage Praise and Worship Conference visit www.teresahairston.com, http://mygospeltoday.com http://www.streamingfaith.com/index.php/straightalk/meet-dr.-teresa-hairston or mygospeltoday.com/heritage/
