Bishop Henry W. Hearns Senior was the born to Earnest and Birdie Hearns in Byhalia, Mississippi on April 23, 1933. Born and raised by sharecroppers, Henry can only be described as a visionary and one who is determined to conquer the insurmountable.
Bishop Hearns served in the U.S. Army in Korea and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in both Agricultural and Civil Engineering from Tennessee State University. In addition, He holds a Masters Degree in Environmental Engineering from University of Southern California. Hearns began his private career as a design engineer in 1960, which was an entry-level position and despite the racism and deliberately placed obstacles in his path, he retired as Chief of the Environmental Branch at Edwards Air Force Base with over three hundred staff under his management.
In 1965, the thirty-one year old was selected as Senior Pastor of Living Stone Cathedral of Worship Church in sun Village, California formerly known as First Missionary Baptist Church. Bishop Hearns is a patriarch. He is the father of six children and four grandchildren. He is not only a father to his offspring but also for those who need a strong, godly mentor.
Bishop Henry Hearns is actively involved in civic and other community activities, committed to his service of others. He has lived in the Antelope Valley primarily in Lancaster area for over 45years. The only African American ever elected in the city's history to serve the City of Lancaster. Bishop Hearns was elected to four consecutive terms on the Lancaster City Council in 1990 through 1992 and 2006 through 2008, also served for 10 years as Vice Mayor and two terms as Mayor. He is currently serving as the Mayor Emeritus giving a total of over 18 years of service to the City of Lancaster, California.
Bishop Henry Hearns continues to serve on numerous boards and committees, including but not limited to: the United Way, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Housing Urban Development Community Development Act Board, American Cancer Society, Advisory Board for the Boys & Girls Club and Program Sponsor for the Antelope Valley Black Infant Health Program.
Finally, Bishop Henry Hearns is a servant of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ, which is the reason for living the life he lives. From a country boy who lived through poverty to a man, rich in God’s loving kindness, Bishop Henry Hearns considers his life and accomplishments as part of his reasonable service. He eagerly awaits and is ready for what the Lord has planned for him next.
GRACEFEST HISTORY &
STATEMENT OF FAITH
Dating back to August of 2007, GraceFest has become the Antelope Valley’s Premier Music and Message festival. GraceFest reaches out to all people through the universal language of music and the gospel message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Read More »
Bishop Henry W. Hearns Senior was the born to Earnest and Birdie Hearns in Byhalia, Mississippi on April 23, 1933. Born and raised by sharecroppers, Henry can only be described as a visionary and one who is determined to conquer the insurmountable.