Kirbyjon Caldwell Goes on air Nationwide Soon

Caldwell, senior pastor of Windsor Village United Methodist Church, recently launched his Living the Kingdom Experience television ministry on Fox in Houston as well as in Orlando, Boston and Minneapolis. More cities will be added in coming months, including Amarillo, Abilene, San Angelo, Wichita Falls, Beaumont and Tyler, in Texas.

Caldwell, who became pastor at the church 27 years ago when it had just 25 members, said people have asked him to pursue television ministry for two decades. He said the idea always posed a mental "question mark" for him.

"I have been very sensitive about maintaining the integrity of our local ministry," said Caldwell of his 15,000-member congregation. "That is where my heart is, and that is where my mind is."

But Caldwell said he "got a green light" from God this time, particularly after people in his own congregation stepped forward.

"The Lord has provided us with the intellectual capital, the people we need in order to produce the program," he said. "I didn't ask for them. They just kind of dropped down like manna from heaven."

In the 30-minute show, viewers will hear condensed versions of Caldwell's Sunday sermons, along with an introduction and commentary from the pastor and his wife/co-pastor, Suzette Caldwell.

Caldwell said he is still learning the ropes.

"You are not talking to a professional TV pastor," he said. "I don't know my nose from my elbow about television ministry. This is a real faith walk."

Though perhaps new to television, Caldwell is no stranger to celebrity. The pastor gave the benediction at the inaugurations of President George W. Bush and served as a Bush advisor during those terms of office. He also officiated the wedding of presidential daughter Jenna Bush. And the New York Times reported that Caldwell is one of five pastors in the nation that President Obama consults on religious matters.

Windsor Village's most recent venture in Houston was the creation of Pointe 2.3.4., a 234-acre master-planned community for first-time homeowners. The development includes a YMCA, elementary school, charter schools for junior and senior high students, a clinic and retail businesses.

The show also is expected to air locally on Comcast Channel 77 and Trinity Broadcasting Network in July.

"I hear folks longing for hope and grabbing for answers, and needing help for today, hope for tomorrow," he said. "And I think our ministry can help add both social and spiritual value to their everyday life."