Born on May 6, 1943, William Samuel Winston, popularly known as Dr. Bill Winston is an American televangelist, preacher, author, and entrepreneur. He is the founder and Senior Pastor of Living Word Christian Center, a church in Forest Park, Illinois, a church he founded in 1989 now a congregation of over 22,000 members.
Dr. Bill Winston: From Tuskegee Airman to Televangelist Titan
Born in 1943 in Tuskegee, Alabama, William Samuel Winston, better known as Dr. Bill Winston, embodies the American dream intertwined with divine purpose. His life reads like a testament to faith, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Early Years, Education and a Brush with Aviation
Growing up surrounded by the Tuskegee Airmen’s audacious spirit, young Bill dreamt of soaring heights. He excelled in academics and leadership, graduating from the prestigious Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University).
Inspired by the legacy of pioneers like Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver, Bill embarked on a career in the United States Air Force, soaring through the skies as a fighter pilot. His exceptional service earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, and the Squadron Top Gun Award.
From the Air Force To The Pulpit
Leaving the Air Force in 1970, Bill pursued a Master’s degree in Business Administration and entered the corporate world. Yet, the call to ministry wouldn’t be silenced. In 1980, he answered the divine nudge, attending Oral Roberts University and receiving his Doctor of Divinity in 1983.
Pastor Bill Winston initially intended to establish a Bible training school upon moving to Chicago. However, guided by divine direction, he shifted his focus and founded Living Word Church of Chicago in 1989 with his wife, Veronica, starting small evangelistic meetings that blossomed into a multi-cultural megachurch with over 22,000 members.
Family and Children
Bill met Veronica, his soulmate and ministry partner, while working at IBM. She became a pillar of Living Word, a leader,preacher, and intercessor.
Dr. Bill Winston and Veronica got married in 1983. They’ve been married for over 40 years and are actively involved in ministry together at Living Word Christian Center.
Together, they raised three children: Melody, Allegra, and David. David is married with four beautiful children and he is also a pastor at Living Word Christian Center. Melody and Allegra are also married and actively involved in the faith work.
Their family exemplifies the loving foundation upon which their global ministry rests.
The Church that Empowers
Living Word Christian Center, affectionately known as “The Place Where Dreams Come True,” transcends conventional church models. It’s a vibrant hub of faith, business, and community support. The Joseph Business Center equips entrepreneurs, La Plaza shopping centers offer economic opportunities, and the Living Word School of Ministry grooms future faith leaders. Bill’s message of “faithpreneurship” emphasizes financial abundance as a natural outcome of a strong spiritual foundation.
Dr. Bill Winston Businesses and Ventures
Dr. Winston’s influence extends beyond the church walls. He’s a prolific author, with bestselling books like “The Anointing” and “Kingdom of God,” expanding his reach worldwide. Bill and Veronica established Bill Winston Ministries, a media platform broadcasting his teachings through Believer’s Walk of Faith and various radio networks.
His commitment to education manifests through the Winston Family Foundation, supporting academic and spiritual development.
Dr. Bill Winston Network
Estimates place Dr. Winston’s net worth at around $40 million, reflecting his diverse ventures. While investments and real estate holdings contribute, the primary source remains Living Word’s offerings and tithes. Beyond tangible wealth, Bill owns luxury cars, reflecting his success and entrepreneurial spirit. However, critics often mention these possessions alongside concerns about the “prosperity gospel” preached at Living Word.
Joseph Business School
The Joseph Business School and The Joseph Center are significant aspects of Dr. Bill Winston’s ministry and entrepreneurial endeavors
The Joseph Business School (JBS):
- Established in 1997 as a ministry extension of Living Word Church, JBS offers accredited undergraduate and graduate programs in business and entrepreneurship.
- Its mission is to “equip Christ-centered business leaders with biblical principles and practical skills to transform the marketplace and advance the Kingdom of God.”
- JBS emphasizes the concept of “faithpreneurship,” combining spiritual principles with business acumen to empower students to build successful and socially responsible ventures.
- The school boasts a beautiful 33-acre campus in Forest Park, Illinois, and offers online programs for flexible learning.
- It has received accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET) and enjoys a positive reputation for its innovative curriculum and strong alumni network.
The Joseph Center
- Founded in 1986, The Joseph Center serves as a resource hub for entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners.
- It offers various programs and services, including:
- Business development workshops: These workshops cover topics like business planning, marketing,finance, and leadership.
- Microloan programs: The center provides funding and guidance to help entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses.
- Business consulting: One-on-one consultations with experienced professionals help entrepreneurs refine their business ideas and overcome challenges.
- Community development initiatives: The Joseph Center aims to revitalize neighborhoods through economic empowerment and entrepreneurship.
- The center has reportedly provided over $732 million in financial assistance to entrepreneurs through its microloan programs and other initiatives.
- It works closely with JBS to provide academic and practical support to business students.
Controversies and Questions
- Some critics raise concerns about the “prosperity gospel” teachings associated with Living Word and JBS,questioning the emphasis on material wealth and prosperity.
- Others point out the lack of transparency surrounding the finances of Living Word and The Joseph Center.
- There have been some instances of former students or loan recipients expressing dissatisfaction with the programs or services offered.
During his ministration at the COZA 12 Days of Glory 2024, Dr Winston shared how he started the Joseph Business School (JBS) entrusting the vision to one of his associates who ran with it and in two months, the project kicked off.
Legacy of a Visionary:
Dr. Bill Winston’s story isn’t just about wealth and success; it’s about transforming lives and communities. His unwavering faith, business acumen, and dedication to empowering others have left an indelible mark on the world. From Tuskegee’s skies to the pulpit and beyond, Dr. Winston’s journey continues to inspire, challenge, and ignite the fires of faith and ambition in countless hearts.