Pastor Ron & Ava Bates

Pastor Ron Bates is a visionary pastor whose goal is to teach and preach the gospel from Genesis to Revelation. He brings a wealth of Biblical knowledge combined with humility and submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, the head of the church. As a relational, empowering leader, he truly loves the body of Christ and counts it a privilege to serve. In 1987, Pastor Ron began in ministry with his wife, Ava, and for three decades, they have been serving the Lord and His purposes side-by-side here at The Light Church. The Light Church is part of the Gateway Network. He is also retired from the Houston Fire Department after 20 years of service. After receiving a Bachelor of Ministry in Christian Studies from Masters International School of Divinity (MISD), Pastor Ron went on to earn his Doctorate of Divinity from MISD. Pastor Ron preaches a message of grace with a challenge for people to walk in holiness.

Pastor Ava Bates has a great love and compassion for others. She enjoys teaching, praying for the body of Christ, building ministry teams and empowering others to become all that Christ has redeemed them to be. Pastor Ava graduated with a B.A. in Communications from the University of Houston and subsequently attended and graduated from Rhema Bible School. Additionally, she is a Certified Christian Counselor through the International Institute of Faith Based Counseling. Pastor Ava was ordained through the Association of Faith Churches and Ministers.

HOBBIES:

Pastor Ron enjoys spending time with family and friends, everything motorcycles and most outdoor activities, from tennis to golf. Has a passion for scaring others in the office (he is very good at it). Pastor Ava enjoys traveling to new places, shopping, and spending time with family.