as the newly crowned “Queen of Gospel.”
By Libra Boyd
Gospel Music Fever
“Mahalia Jackson is gone, but we have Shirley Caesar!” shouted longtime Caesar Singer, Bernard Sterling to a capacity crowd at Mount Calvary Word of Faith Church. “We’re gonna love her while she’s here!”
A jubilant ovation erupts. It was one of many during the five hour salute.
Every pew was packed and folding chairs were filled inside the 1500 seat sanctuary Sunday night as its pastor, Shirley Caesar, was crowned “Queen of Gospel.”
The symbolic crown–previously worn by greats Mahalia Jackson and Albertina Walker–was passed to Walker’s protégé Caesar, whose accolades include 11 Grammy, 13 Stellar, and 18 Dove Awards; McDonald’s Golden Circle and SESAC Lifetime Achievement Awards; and induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Throughout the celebratory musical, no less than 14 performers paid tribute with several of Her Majesty’s hits like “Jesus, I Love Calling Your Name,” “Heaven,” and the perennial favorite, “No Charge.” Pastor Caesar smiled, clapped, swayed, and occasionally stood in awe.
Even the youngest generation of gospel singers was well represented in the persons of twelve year-old Michael Boone, nine year-old Rev. Leniyus Sullivan, and eight year-old Symone “Baby Shirley” Spencer.
Also in the house as a surprise guest was Douglas Miller, whose classic “My Soul Has Been Anchored” ripened the atmosphere for a praise break.
In the styling of the British monarchy, Sunday’s coronation followed similar protocols such as Pastor Caesar being anointed with oil (left) by Bishop Harold I. Williams, Patriarch of the Mount Calvary Holy Church of America, Inc. Dressed in an exquisite floor-length gown with dainty gold accents, the ageless beauty then rose to receive the charge from Evangelist Carolyn Sanders. Following the charge and presentation of the Holy Bible, master of ceremony Jerry Smith of Radio One crowned Pastor Caesar, as the title “Queen of Gospel” was bestowed. To a thunderous standing ovation, she was given a bouquet of flowers and presented with more gifts, including a trophy.
As the long evening drew to a close, Queen Shirley took to the lectern, graced the congregation with “Strong Man”–sprinkling a sermonette over its chorus–and expressed heartfelt gratitude along with a sobering exhortation.
“I charge you tonight,” she urged, “as many as who stand on my shoulders…walk holy…live holy….Live what you sing. Live what you preach and teach.”
Jerry Smith, of Radio One’s The Light 103.9FM, prepares to crown Pastor Caesar as Bishop Williams and Bernard Sterling look on.
Libra Nicole Boyd, PhD is a musician, award-winning author, gospel music aficionado, and the founder and editor of Gospel Music Fever™. Her commitment to journalistic integrity includes bringing you reliable gospel music content that uplifts and advances the art form. Libra is presently working on several scholarly projects about gospel music in the media as well as gospel music in social movements.
so proud my you symone congradulations pastor shirley caesar i've heard story of you since i was a child from my grandmother and her sister the late betty barner who was with you ny. i remember you at civic center in downtown raleigh you really came and showed out enjoyed it.
I shoulda been there!!! Oh, my goodness!!! Praise God for the REAL POWER OF GOD THAT RESIDES in Pastor Shirley Caesar-Williams!!!
Amen!!!
It was certainly an event to remember!
Very impressive. The dress was beatiful.
Yes it was a beautiful event yesterday. I'm glad I was able to attend. She is blessed, having a loving husband and family. God bless Pastor Shirley and her Church Family.