New Executive Director of The Gate Appointed

The Gate Ministries of Downtown Kinston has a new addition to their leadership team. 

After longtime Director Donna Hardy retired, the hiring committee began their search for a new Executive Director. 

Not long after the search began, Michael Darnell Fields Sr. was appointed.

“My apostle, Khayyam Shepherd, was on the search committee and shared with me the opportunity here at The Gate.” 

Fields says that he’s been working with kids in the community his whole life, even starting his own basketball program.

“Through my church and my basketball club, North Carolina Wizard Boys Basketball, I’ve been able to pour into our young folks.” 

Additionally, Fields coaches basketball and football at Bethel Christian Academy.

“I have a passion for young people and I felt this would be a good avenue that God would lead me down to help the community with our young folks, because our young folks are in need of guidance.”

He says his main goal as director will be to help kids “gain a better understanding of who Jesus is.” 

“He is the source of everything that we do...I want them to feel that this is a safe place for them to come and fellowship, and just have somewhere to come and relax,” said Fields.

Part of Field’s new responsibilities are to create new programs to engage kids.

He said that “there’s definitely been a learning curve,” as previously he worked full time at Smithfield, Inc.

There are many programs planned for the near future and into the fall. Next week, July 26th through 30th, The Gate is hosting a STEM camp. There will also be a fundraising worship night August 14th, at Pearson Park.

“The gate is open and when school starts back, I’ll be going around to every school to let students know of the different programs,” said Fields.

If you are interested in volunteering at The Gate contact the office at (252)-939-3223.