Thousands of people gathered in Houston over the weekend for the sold-out Cry Out Conference, a three-day experience led by Pastor Keion Henderson and featuring notable faith leaders and gospel artists including Pastor Eric Thomas, Evangelist LaTrice Ryan, and Grammy winner Kirk Franklin.
Before becoming a globally recognized spiritual leader, Henderson was a rising basketball star from Gary, Ind., with dreams that echoed those of countless young men across the country. A career-ending injury, however, redirected his path from sports to ministry — a shift that he now sees as divine preparation for his life’s true calling.
Today, Henderson leads The Lighthouse Church and Ministries in Houston, one of the fastest-growing churches in America. With over 815,000 members worldwide, he presides over a contemporary and expansive ministry committed to helping individuals realize their God-given purpose. Known for his dynamic preaching style and ability to connect faith with modern culture, Henderson is considered one of the most relevant and inspiring voices of his generation.
That influence was on full display during the Cry Out Conference, which combined worship, teaching, and spiritual renewal, highlighting what Henderson describes as a deep and growing hunger for revival among younger generations.
At Henderson’s side is his wife, Shaunie Henderson, an entrepreneur and media executive widely known as co-executive producer of “Basketball Wives.” Since their marriage in 2022, the Hendersons have emerged as a powerhouse duo in faith-based leadership. Together, they blend Keion’s spiritual vision with Shaunie’s media expertise and passion for women’s empowerment to expand the church’s reach and relevance.
“Church was never meant to stay inside four walls,” Pastor Keion said. “As we adapt and shift with the seasons God prepares for us, so, too, must His Church continuously adapt to be what our friends and neighbors need. Our purpose is to serve—first God, then His people. We cannot do that if we do not significantly advance every aspect of our ministry.”
That philosophy shapes every aspect of their approach, from leading a multi-campus church and building a blended family to developing a robust global digital ministry. For the Hendersons, reaching the next generation requires meeting people where they are — online and offline — with messages that resonate.
With viral sermons, a growing digital community, and transformational gatherings like the Cry Out Conference, Keion and Shaunie Henderson are proving that the future of faith doesn’t rely on tradition alone. Instead, it is being shaped by connection, cultural fluency, and bold leadership designed to inspire and uplift a new generation.
