Ira Van Hilliard is one of the greatest teacher's in the body of Christ. Recognized across denominational lines, he is truly anointed. He is the founder of the dynamic church, New Light Christian Center Church, which is a church of 5 locations, and over 20,000 members. Dr. Hilliard was supernaturally called into ministry at the age of nine and preached his first sermon at age 10. He began to Pastor New Light Missionary Baptist Church in Houston, TX in the 1980's. Hilliard was impressed upon by the spirit of God to begin a church like he pastor's today. At the time, he had a 300 member congregation, and due to unsatisfaction of his decleration, the congregation dropped to 23. Not moved by what he saw, he and his wife, Dr. Bridget, continued in ministry. As rewards of their faith, New Light CCC is one of america's most recognized and well know ministries. It partakes of 3 Houston,TX locations and locations in Austin & Beaumont, Texas. The ministry employs over 200 people, has a daily television outreach on several TV Networks. Hilliard holds Honorary Doctorates in Philosophy & Humane Letters from Friends International Christian University. He and his wife Bridget are anointed Honorary Doctorate Holders, authors, teachers, and pastors. Together, they continue their journey of building people of purpose, power, and praise.