TULSA, Okla. - The nation mourns the loss of Bishop Carlton D'Metrius Pearson, who passed away at the age of 70 on Sunday, Nov. 19, following a brave battle with cancer. Known for his powerful preaching on God's love and acceptance, Bishop Pearson was a beloved figure in the religious community.

Bishop Pearson's journey began in 1971 when he moved to Oklahoma to study at Oral Roberts University. Impressed by his talent, Mr. Oral Roberts himself invited Pearson to join the renowned World Action Singers. In 1975, he became an associate evangelist with the Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association, establishing himself as a prominent force in Oklahoma.

In 1977, Bishop Pearson launched his own ministry, Higher Dimensions, Inc., which quickly gained recognition and garnered a dedicated following. Just four years later, in 1981, he and his college roommate established the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center in Jenks, Oklahoma. The first service saw a gathering of over 75 individuals eager to hear Bishop Pearson's message.

The mid-eighties brought national and international recognition for Bishop Pearson through a television program called "Everything's Gonna Be All Right." As one of only two African-American preachers with a nationwide television ministry, his influence expanded far beyond Oklahoma's borders.

Bishop Pearson's impact continued to grow, culminating in the launch of the annual AZUSA Conference in 1988. The conference provided a platform for numerous preachers, gospel singers, and different denominations to come together and share their faith.

His gospel albums, titled "Live at AZUSA," gained critical acclaim and received nominations for several Dove and Stellar Awards. The album "Carlton Pearson Live at AZUSA 2: Precious Memories" went on to win three Stellar Awards, solidifying Bishop Pearson's place in the gospel music industry.

In 1996, during the AZUSA Conference, Bishop Pearson was consecrated as a bishop in an ecclesiastical ceremony by the Presiding Bishop of the AZUSA Interdenominational Fellowship of Christian Churches and Ministries. This further cemented his leadership role within the religious community.

Beyond his religious pursuits, Bishop Pearson was a trusted counselor to numerous US presidents and international leaders, showcasing the wide-reaching impact of his teachings and influence.

In a significant shift in his beliefs, Bishop Pearson later preached a message of universal salvation, asserting that Jesus did not only die for and save Christians but all human beings. This perspective challenged traditional notions of hell and garnered both praise and criticism within the religious community.

The Pearson family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers during this difficult time. They now ask for privacy as they navigate their loss. Details about memorial services will be announced in the near future, allowing friends, followers, and admirers to pay their respects to a remarkable leader who left an indelible mark on the world.