Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson – Editor
When I was young, my mother would always purchase the albums of Bishop Hezekiah Walker that illuminated the room when the sounds of joy shouted through the speakers of the stereo. I know that if his message of healing uplifted the spirit of my family, that it did the same for many across the world.
Bishop Hezekiah Walker is the founder and Senior Pastor of the Love Fellowship Tabernacle, which was birthed in the year of 1993, having only 8 members. Today, the church is established in 5 locations, such as, Brooklyn, NY, Bensalem, PA, Long Island, NY, Lilburn, GA and Columbia, SC, having over 3000 members. With the vision that God gave Bishop Walker, he was also able to use his music ministry as well, by empowering, motivating and inspiring people through the Word of God and with the power of prayer, leading them to God.
Over the last couple of years Bishop Hezekiah has become the Presiding Prelate of the Pentecostal Churches of Jesus Christ. He is also the President and Founder of The Covenant Keepers International Fellowship and will act as a returning judge for Verizon’s How Sweet the Sound that is touring to multiple cities throughout the country.
Embraced by a phone conversation with the Bishop, his gentle spirit welcomed me as a friend, as well as a new family member. It was a pleasure to have spoken to such a ‘man of God’ who is also credited as one of Gospel’s greats. The Bishop shared with us some valuable insight regarding his ministry, music and career in hopes to inspire and empower you.
Aaron Robinson: You are a judge for Verizon’s How Sweet the Sound. How did you become involved with this wonderful show?
Hezekiah Walker: Wow! Actually, at the beginning of the inception of How Sweet the Sound, I was one of the one’s who helped get it started. So, it’s not really new to me. This is like my third year being a part of it.
AR: What point in your life did you want to sing to spread the gospel?
HW: At a very young age. Growing up in church, you kind of get a sense of what you want to do and what you need to do. I think around 12 years old, I knew that was my mission, and I knew that I had to do that.
AR: Is there a challenge being a pastor and having a music career at the same time?
HW: It’s a major challenge (Laugh)! But, God won’t put no more on you than you can bare. If you got it, you can deal with it. It’s been challenging, but it’s also been rewarding as well, because most people who don’t know about my singing ministry get a chance to hear my music at church. And most people that don’t know about my preaching, they come here to sing, but then they also get a chance to come and hear my preaching. So, that’s a good thing.
AR: You were raised in the housing projects in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, how did you overcome living in such an environment?
HW: You know, back in the day, the projects really wasn’t a bad place to live. Matter of fact, it was almost like family for everybody. As I got older it got bad because of the drugs and everything else. But, I believe the Lord has me here to be an example. And He brought me out of there to show people that you can make it and you can be successful.
AR: Before you became a pastor, were there any inkling that you would establish multiple churches throughout the country?
HW: Oh, I had no inkling that that was going to happen. That was something that just came about. But, I guess that comes with the territory as you establish one church and it’s growing and it goes well. The Lord gives you another venture to attack as well.
AR: What words of encouragement would you give to those who are striving to align their life with God?
HW: I would tell them to stay focused, understand your purpose, and understand your destiny. And if you really keep God first then there’s nothing you won’t be able to do!
AR: Would you like to add anything in closing?
HW: Yes. Anyone that knows How Sweet the Sound is coming to your area – to make sure that they are there, because it’s going to be something great. I think it’s a great tune that Verizon and How Sweet the Sound is coming on to really push gospel music through choirs. The music industry is trying to get away from the choir sound, but as long as there are churches, you will never get away from that choir sound. I think that Verizon and How Sweet the Sound has stepped on the scene to really make sure that choirs stay alive. So, if you know that How Sweet the Sound is coming to your area, please come aboard.
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Consciousness Magazine had the opportunity to interview Verizon’s How Sweet The Sound hosts and judges. Here is what they had to say about this remarkable event as they travel to various cities around the country. These gospel artists also share valuable information regarding their life and career, in hopes to empower and enlighten our readers and their fans.
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Last modified: April 17, 2023