New Book And Elevation For Gospel Legend Bishop J.C. White

Bishop J.C. White was elevated to the office of Archbishop and released his first book, Messages Behind the Melodies, covering his nearly six decades in music ministry.

The consecration service was held at the close of the annual Church of God in Christ International Holy Convocation Services in Bridgeport, Connecticut and officiated by Archbishop Robert Rochford of Brooklyn New York. Bishop Marvin L. Winans, Sr. was the speaker for the evening. 

Known around the globe as the chief architect, master songwriter and driving force behind the Glory days of the famed Institutional Radio Choir and the J.C. White Singers,  Archbishop White has composed and arranged music that has become the fabric of recognized choir standards in church today. Among his hits are Stretch Out (When Trouble Comes), Talk It Over With Jesus, You Can Make It, Please Touch Somebody and Keys to the Kingdom. His songs have been covered by the likes of Ricky Dillard and New G, Chicago Mass Choir, Dr Charles G Hayes & Cosmopolitan Church of Prayer Choir and others.

Throughout the years, Archbishop White has provided spiritual covering and wise counsel to a number of pastors, singers and musicians serving as a role model and example to  countless young people, including the Stellar Award winning group Youthful Praise, directed by his son in law, JJ Hairston.

“I felt it was time to tell the story behind the songs and that’s what the book is,” Archbishop White said. “Once you know the message, it adds weight to the lyrics and the melodies.”

Published by Dudley Publishing House, Bishop White’s book tells the story behind 10 of his most popular songs. The book includes stories about industry friends: Andrae Crouch, Edwin Hawkins and Kitty Parham and of course words of encouragement and exhortation.

The book is available on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles and other book outlets.

Archbishop White has been married to Lady Gloria for 59 years and is the father of 5 children. He resides in Connecticut where he has served as pastor of Cathedral of Praise COGIC in Bridgeport for 39 years.