THE ALIVE GATHERING MINISTRIES
ABOUT
Pastor Richard Davis and his wife, Faith, shepherd this Northern Virginia church in Springfield. This is a charismatic, Spirit-filled church where the Holy Spirit is evident in every service. It's a safe harbor for troubled lives and a spiritual hospital for those suffering in mind, soul, and body. It's a spiritual oasis for those seeking relief from the troubles and cares of life.
Services begin with a time of praise and worship followed by anointed, honest life-changing sharing of God's Word designed to inspire, teach, and transform lives for God's glory. As worship concludes, Pastor Davis conducts a prayer line where the Holy Spirit ministers to those in spiritual and
physical need.
Pastor Davis grew up in Northern Maine where he went to grade school and graduated from high school. Because of family situations, he was raised by his grandparents. He attended a charismatic, Pentacostal church - learning God's Word and how to live a life bringing honor to the Lord. God blessed him with talents to sing and play several musical instruments - thus opening doors for future ministry.
He then attended Faith School of Theology in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, graduating with high honors. After graduation, he became music director at the Teen Challenge (TC) rehabilitation center (for troubled and addicted youth) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As part of this outreach, he directed musical groups which traveled across America and to several countries singing and ministering in youth crusades. These crusades were to reach young people and also raise funds for TC. During his years with TC, he recorded several gospel albums.
Pastor Davis met Faith Gilbertson from Minnesota (where she was raised in a Pentecostal church). After high school, she attended North Central Bible College in Minneapolis and then became part of the TC ministry. Faith had a beautiful singing voice which was used for God's glory. She was on staff at the TC girls' home and also oversaw the publications department. She participated in the music ministry where she became interested in the music director. They were married in 1969 and have one son. In later years, Faith sang for a meeting at which the mayor of Philadelphia was in attendance. While employed by an agency of the U.S. Department of Treasury in Washington, D.C. she sang the National Anthem with the honor guard at the swearing-in ceremony for the new director.
In the early 70's the family moved to Northern Virginia; Pastor Davis accepted a position as youth pastor/youth music director at Christian Center in Springfield. Later he became music director, associate/youth pastor for 12 years at Reality Gospel Church in Alexandria.
In 1988 vacationing in the Bahamas, while walking alone on the beach, the Spirit of God spoke to Pastor Davis. "Go back home and start a church. It's to be a spiritual hospital for hurting people; a safe harbor for those wounded along the path of life." God promised that if he obeyed instructions for this ministry, the gates of hell would not prevail against it. That was 30 years ago; Pastor Davis did as God directed, and God stays true to his Word.
In August 1988, The Alive Gathering Ministries started with no money, no people, and no building. A Fairfax County school cafeteria was contracted, and the church continued there for seven and a half years. Pastor Davis simply took God at His Word - that His Will would be accomplished. The first Sunday, 21 people were present, and the vision began.
A 25,000 square foot space was leased in 1995 and remodeled into a sanctuary/auditorium, classrooms, fellowship hall, kitchen, and offices. Over the past 23 years, thousands have been part of this church body; it's not a large congregation, but it has blessed many families, singles, and children.
The Kingdom Kids ministry meets every other Friday evening; it ministers to children through teaching God's Word, music, crafts, and a meal. Mission projects, at home and abroad, have been awesomely overshadowed by God's blessings.
Everyone is welcomed, accepted, and treated with dignity and respect at The Alive Gathering Ministries. Hope to see YOU soon!
