Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr.

Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr.: I'm really, really excited about it. What we tried to do with this project is that we tried to reach everybody and I think that is important. We have the contemporary music and then we have the praise and worship. I think it's really about getting people into the presence of God. That's what Let it Rain is about, the blessings of God and the growing into one's life. We believe it takes people where they need to go.

CH: It's very apparent that you have a very strong belief in the power of music. Every year, your church is always in recording, releasing good gospel music. Is this a focal point of the ministry you believe will have an undeniable impact on the public?

PM: I've always preached that music has been a great part of my life. I never lost that desire, never lost that motivation because I believe if God gives a gift to you then you should use it. Even when I became a preacher, music was such a great part of my life; you can reach people and there is always a message in the music. That's why I've tried to use it to the max and make sure we're putting out things that are going to bless people; so, yes, I love music.

CH: An integral part of your music ministry for many years was the late Michael Robinson; how has his loss been felt by the St. Stephen Church and how have you tried to make up for his absence?

PM: Michael was just so special to us and there was such a special anointing upon him. His music could take you right into the presence of God. We feel the loss in our ministry; he was one who believed in training of the musicians. We're going on in the name of Jesus and we feel Mike is still with us; I know he would love Let it Rain. He would love those kind of songs we would put out because I just know; it's just the way he is.

CH: I've watched your music ministry over the years evolve; first, there were the days with Blackberry Records, with your memorable album - We Offer Christ - which propelled your singing ministry on to everyone's radar. Of course, there was your short stint with CGI / Intersound Records, with the release of your preaching ministry. That was followed by your relationship with GospoCentric Records as one of the first singing bishops. And now, it appears as though the church is ready to begin producing its own material with the launch of Tehillah Music Group. Give me your take on the evolution of the church's music ministry.