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Earnest Pugh Honored at "Survivors Worship: Houston Edition"


Published: Jan 01, 2026 12:04 AM EST

BJM Entertainment LLC will present Survivors Worship: Houston Edition, a powerful worship experience and special tribute honoring gospel recording artist Earnest Pugh, on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. The event will take place at Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church, located at 4300 Noble Street in Houston.

Survivors Worship was created by BJM Entertainment founder and CEO Billy J. Morris following his mother's diagnosis and eventual recovery from breast cancer. What began as a deeply personal expression of gratitude has grown into a communal worship movement-designed as a sacred gathering where believers come together to thank God for what they have survived and overcome.

"Survivors Worship is about testimony and thanksgiving," said Morris. "It gives people space to come together and worship God for bringing them through life's challenges."

Originally launched in San Antonio, Survivors Worship is now expanding into new markets, with Houston marking the next city to host the experience. The Houston edition will also celebrate BJM Entertainment's fifth anniversary, while publicly honoring Earnest Pugh's enduring influence, mentorship, and impact on both the company and the broader gospel music community.

The tribute will feature special performances by Pugh's Blacksmoke labelmate Cedric Ballard, Houston-based worship leader Nakitta Foxx, The Voice Season 25 standout Valerie T. Smith, and Dallas gospel recording artist Malcolm Christopher III. Artists will perform selections from Pugh's celebrated catalog or musical tributes reflecting his lasting contribution to modern worship, with organizers hinting at a few surprise guest appearances.

Pugh's career spans more than two decades and includes 13 albums, 17 radio singles, and five No. 1 Billboard Gospel Airplay hits. In August 2025, he received his first Stellar Award for Traditional Male Artist of the Year following ten previous nominations.

In March 2025, a new generation was introduced to Pugh's music when his classic song "I Need Your Glory" went viral after being performed during an audition on American Idol, breathing fresh life into the 14-year-old anthem. Pugh also appeared on the 25th Anniversary of Gospel Superfest, hosted by Vivica A. Fox, which recently aired on FOX SOUL.

"We want to honor Earnest Pugh for his achievements and give him his flowers," Morris added. "He has been instrumental in my personal journey and in the success of BJM Entertainment. I believe in giving honor where it is due."

The event will be emceed by Compassion T. Anderson and hosted by Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church, pastored by Timothy W. Criswell. Additional contributors include A Brown Agency LLC, with sponsorship support from Mom and Pop Morris, Archie Jenkins, and the Harris family.

For more information and event updates, follow BJM Entertainment on Facebook and Instagram @BJMEntertainment.