Dr. Teresa Hairston - Interview (January 2008) | BlackGospel.com, Your Gospel Music Ministry Source!

Interview with Dr. Teresa Hairston
January 2008, BlackGospel.com by Christopher Heron

One of the true vanguards for Kingdom music and Kingdom building in this generation is the ministerial media mogul and Christ-centered conference queen - Dr. Teresa Hairston. Her publication – Gospel Today – continues to serve an important role as voice and sound bite for ministers, artists throughout the gospel music culture.

However, the Gospel Heritage Praise & Worship Conference Dr. Hairston founded and has hosted since the beginning of the new millennium has emerged as her special baby with promise and purpose. The official forum that holds faith and worship as its central theme has grown from an idea into a full-fledged power-packed drawing card within the Gospel industry and church circles.

Teresa Hairston has always displayed a knack for all things related to the Gospel. Picking up experience and relationships along the way, Dr. Hairston, over the years, has found herself marketing talent as a record label exec, pioneering TV productions, publishing a glossy magazine and, most recently, building one of the most esteemed annual Christian conferences in the nation.

The Gospel Heritage Praise & Worship Conference was initially founded to “preserve the heritage and perpetuate the legacy of Gospel music.” Yet, in less than 10 years, the Praise & Worship Conference has exceeded its goal by evolving into a national event that nurtures and cultivates Gospel music, while concurrently feeding minds, healing souls and nurturing spirits by the thousands. BlackGospel.com spoke with heart and hammer behind the 2008 Heritage Praise & Worship Conference, Dr. Teresa Hairston, who still gets excited about what God is doing for and through her life.

Christopher Heron: Dr. Hairston, let’s begin our conversation on a biblical note. I’m curious to know what is your favorite biblical text and why does it hold such intrinsic value and meaning in your life?

Teresa Hairston: Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose” ...God is so incredibly faithful! His purpose and plan is precise and He doesn't waste anything! He is the ultimate time manager! HA! I marvel at how God has orchestrated every experience in my life...the good and the bad...and connected every dot to bring to the who, what, where and how of my existence.

CH: Your enterprising ways are not only inspirational but rather remarkable. If I may pry, what type of young woman were you, growing up as a child, into adolescence and then eventually into a young woman? Did you always possess an entrepreneurial spirit, particularly in ministry? Or did this calling come much later in life, after a lot of exposure and even more tests and trials?

TH: The tests and trials are like the "seasoning" of life; without them, you would be old and "bland..."! I was always inquisitive, talkative and spontaneous. I loved adventure and I enjoyed playing hard! I remember playing everything with the boys, from basketball to football. There was nothing that was too hard or off limits. I grew up with a brother and uncles; so I was a die-hard "tom-boy." I was always a fighter, and I always wanted to win at everything I did. So, these days, I guess I'm the same but much, much, more seasoned...thank God!

About ministry? Wow! I didn't ever expect that would be a place I'd enjoy. I believe that all the rest was setting me up for the best. There's nothing like seeing God's anointing rest in a place once you've obediently shared His word.

CH: Dr. Hairston, as a public figure, you’re well aware of the public perception mentality which comes with being in the public’s eye. The public quickly and presumptuously sums up an individual based upon what they see in a magazine or from a pulpit or what they hear from a radio show or TV program. If you were to unveil your lighter or amusing side, what would surprise the public about Teresa Hairston?

TH: I love my grandbabies.(2 and 1/2 of them!). I go to Chuckie Cheese and run around carrying the coins for my little ones. It's the best! I love to laugh and play and tell jokes and amusing stories.

CH: What interesting hobby, tendency or talent do you possess?

TH: I guess some people still do not know that I'm a songwriter and musician...I wrote "Magnify" ...which Lecresia Campbell performed, and "Worship Experience" which William Murphy performed...I'm creative and will normally try to do just about anything! I like painting and playing pool and cards too!

CH: And what aspect of faith or works do you hold so terribly dear to you and your relationship with God?

TH: I believe that there's nothing that I can't do through Christ. I think the main thing that I've learned is that it's better to step out in faith than stand still in fear. God is amazing and loving; He will never let you fall!

CH: The Gospel Heritage Foundation Praise & Worship Conference is now many years removed from its humble beginnings as the Gospel Heritage Weekend in the late 90’s. What are 3 essential lessons you’ve learned as a conference coordinator and host over these incredible years?

TH: I've learned that when you build it they will come. I don't know where that quote came from, but I know that it's true. I never wanted to do "all this..." but it had to be done...I didn't think that people would come to something unless a big name preacher or artist sponsored/hosted it...but Look at God! Second, I've learned to keep the main thing the main thing...God's presence is the main thing, and when He shows up...that's all we need...the big names have to take a seat!! Third, I think our industry is evolving rapidly and moving to a new place; Heritage is meeting a need and that's why it's so important that those who "see" God's imprint on it make sure that they support it. We must learn that our tangible support means so much.

CH: Every year, you provide an impressive roster of guests and participants for the Praise & Worship Conference. What particular aspects of this year’s conference have you noticeably excited with anticipation?

TH: This year, for some reason, I really think that the "multi-cultural" aspect is going to be surprisingly awesome. On Thursday, John Francis who is from UK will be with us. Martha Munizzi will be with us Thursday Night, we'll also be broadcasting live on Word Network that night and Pastor Jackie McCullough will be preaching. The nation has been missing her for a while; I am so thrilled that she'll be with us.

Then Friday, Pastor Juandolyn Stokes will be our keynote. She is amazing! The whole conference will be on the floor! Friday night the Heritage awards will salute Ernestine Reems-Dickerson; she truly defines women in ministry! She's such an inspiration. Then, Marvin Sapp and Donald Lawrence will also be saluted. WOW! Then late night will feature Tye Tribbett and J Moss with a special Youth Jam.

On Saturday morning, Pastor Hezekiah Walker is going to preach. He has the conference in his heart, so I know his message is going to be off the chain; then we close out that night with Judy Jacobs. This little Indian woman is fierce! She comes to kill...taking no prisoners...WOW! Plus, did I mention Darwin Hobbs and Israel and New Breed will be there on Saturday night?

CH: The Praise & Worship Conference has taken on as meaningful (if not a larger) place in your ministerial ventures, as your publication – Gospel Today. Could you accurately sum up what each of those two properties do for you, as you serve the Lord through these ministries?

TH: I guess they humble me, more than anything...because they prove to me daily, that i am nothing without God...I marvel at how He sends provision, week after week...and I am thankful that He proves that He will complete the work that He has begun...

CH: Finally Dr. Hairston, who will most benefit from attending this year’s Gospel Heritage Foundation Praise & Worship Conference?

TH: I think those who pull on the anointing of the atmosphere will benefit most...this year, we are stressing "Kingdom Connections"...this means that we are offering the platform to connect from purpose to promise. The Word says that "in the presence of God is fullness of joy". We all came into 2008 talking about a new season and a new beginning. I believe that it's up to each of us to steward our steps into our next season, so this conference presents the opportunity. It's up to each person who attends to seize it, through praise and worship!

CH: And what are the types of blessings registrants and attendees can expect to experience this year?

TH: I think that there is going to be a great setting for learning...we have strategically positioned the classes and seminars to reach the mind, heart and soul of the attendees...this is a different kind of conference. It's where we touch and connect. We are going to see healings, deliverances and break-throughs and we are going to all grow in God...in 3 days, we will see new life come forth in our midst!

For more information on the 2008 Gospel Heritage Praise & Worship Conference visit the official website at www.ghf07.com or call Alshante Squire at 770-719-4825 or email her at gospelheritage@aol.com.