Blazin' Trails Cowboy Church

Kim Gates

Kim Gates is more than just the pastor’s wife; she is one of the cornerstones of the Blazin’ Trails Cowboy Church community. While her title may suggest simplicity, her roles and contributions are anything but. From leading women’s groups to managing finances and coordinating events, Kim truly does it all. Initially soft-spoken and somewhat shy, once you get to know her, you realize the depth of her qualities. She is witty, kind, giving, and endlessly supportive.

Kim is a proud graduate of Lincolnton High School, the same as Pastor Harvey albeit two years behind. Their love story began on a fateful night in the late 70s when Kim saw Harvey in his 1978 soft-top Jeep Renegade cruising through downtown Lincolnton. Ever the gentleman, he yelled out to this pretty young woman to meet him at the local Texaco.  They began courting and soon were in marriage counseling at the local church before “getting hitched” in 1980.  To this day, if you show up at Blazin’ Trails you will always see her Jeep parked outside the church, an homage to their initial meeting and a testament to their enduring love.

When Pastor Harvey speaks about Kim, his admiration is palpable. “She is the picture of what it means to be Christ-like to me. When I picture grace, I think of Kim,” he says. He also praises her forgiving, understanding, loving, and genuine nature. Harvey credits Kim for his own spiritual journey, stating, “She is the reason I came to Christ. She pushed me to be a better man.”

In a twist of fate, Harvey and Kim’s spiritual paths converged at a revival at Salem Baptist Church in 1991. Kim was in the congregation, while Harvey was upstairs operating the camera. During the song “If You Died Tonight,” Kim went to the altar to give her life to Christ, unbeknownst to Harvey. Later that evening, Harvey also felt the calling and they met in the counseling room behind the stage. This pivotal moment set the course for their shared journey in faith.

Throughout their marriage, Kim has been a steadfast supporter of Harvey’s spiritual leadership. Harvey recalls never hearing Kim question his decisions, even when it meant leaving the comfort of her friends and familiar fellowship. She did it all with grace and faith.

Kim Gates exudes the virtues of grace, love, and unwavering support. Her multifaceted roles within the church and her enduring love for Pastor Harvey make her an integral part of its community. She is not just a pastor’s wife; she is a leader, a friend, and confidant to all who know her.

Perhaps the greatest compliment she received was from a visiting couple who remarked, “We’ve been going to a new church for over a year and just last week met our pastor’s wife. And when we came today as guests for the first time, she came over and introduced herself.”  That’s just the kind of person Kim is.  And we are grateful to have her.

Callie Carpenter

Callie Carpenter, born and raised in Lincolnton, North Carolina, has been involved with Blazin’ Trails Cowboy Church since October 2022.  With a lifelong love for music, she’s been leading the music worship at BCCC since January 2024, finding joy and fulfillment in using her gifts to worship the Lord and helping others connect with Him through music.

Harvey Gates

Pastor Harvey Gates accepted Christ as his Savior in a revival service on March 17, 1991. Since that time, God has had his hand on his life.

Pastor Harvey has served as Youth Pastor and Associate Pastor at Hull’s Grove Baptist Church-West, planting of Cross Creek Cowboy Church, site Pastor of New Life Baptist Church, & site Pastor of Hull’s Grove Baptist Church-North Campus. God then called him to plant Blazin’ Trails Cowboy Church in Lincolnton, NC. The church was started in a small barn and then relocated to The Ponderosa, property owned by Lincoln County Horsemen’s Association. Pastor Harvey has been the Pastor of Blazin’ Trails Cowboy Church since it’s birth in January 2010.

Jason Cockerline

In 2022, Jason was elected by the church to serve as an elder, a role he takes on with great devotion. His genuine heart and unwavering commitment to the church’s growth and the well-being of its members make him a well-deserving candidate.

Alicia, Jason’s wife, believes that his election as an elder stems from his sincere heart.  She says, “ He has that heart that says ‘I’m going to be there; I’m going to do whatever I can to help the church flourish because I want the church to flourish; I want the people of the church to flourish.'”

It was twenty years ago when Jason met Alicia, and as they prepared for their marriage, they decided to enroll in wedding counseling. It was during these sessions, led by Pastor Harvey in 2006, that Jason, who had never truly belonged to a church or a religion before, found salvation. The momentous occasion took place in the pastor’s living room, marking the beginning of Jason’s journey from unbeliever to leader.  Eighteen years later, Jason is Pastor Harvey’s right-hand-man.

Aside from his dedication to the church, Jason has a passion for cooking and generously shares his talents with others.  From cooking up a pot of Brunswick Stew for Christmas at the Stalls to smokin’ brisket for the rodeo–he is a familiar face at charity events and dinners.

Jason, who grew up a “military brat,” was born in Germany and later moved to the United States with his parents during his teenage years. After a brief stay in Maine, they settled in North Carolina, which has become his home.   This year Jason and Alicia celebrate their 18th wedding anniversary, a testament to their strong bond and shared values. They are proud parents to Jonathan and Nathan, and they hold a special place in their hearts for their late child, Brooklyn. In honor of Brooklyn, Blazin’ Trails Brooke’s Roundup was founded.

Jason’s journey exemplifies the power of Salvation. His genuine heart, selflessness, and passion for serving others make him an invaluable asset to the church and its members.

Alicia Cockerline

Alicia is the leader of our church’s children’s ministry, known as Kid’s Corral. She assumed this role out of a simple need and her genuine desire to help.  Speaking on why she began to lead Kid’s Corral, Alicia said “We just had a need and I love to help however I can.  I am still praying that one day God will send us the person that is suppose to run the program and really make it flourish–but until He sends someone else I’ll be here!”

With her background as a registered nurse, Alicia brings a sense of trust and expertise to her role as the leader of our children’s ministry. The church members have full confidence in her ability to care for and guide our most valuable little souls.  Alicia’s passion for children is evident in her own words: “I am here for God to use me however I can for the kids. I love kids with my entire heart.”

Alicia is a true ‘Carolina girl’, born and raised in Lincolnton, NC.  She has a bright smile, warm heart, and generous spirit. Together with her husband Jason, who serves as a church elder, they celebrate their 18th wedding anniversary this year. They are proud parents to Jonathan and Nathan, and they hold a special place in their hearts for their late child, Brooklyn.

In honor of Brooklyn, they founded Blazin’ Trails Brooke’s Roundup. This initiative is a testament to her love and commitment to making a difference in the lives of all children–especially Special Needs children.

If you are interested in joining Alicia and supporting Kids Corral, please don’t hesitate to reach out to her.  She very much is looking for volunteers.  Alicia firmly believes that “kids are the future of our church, and if we don’t put time and love into them, we won’t have a future.”