Rev. Dr. Kay M. Gabriel, Senior Pastor

Rev. Dr. Kay M. Gabriel is the Pastor and servant-leader of the vibrant congregation of Pleasant Ridge A.M.E. Zion in Gastonia, NC. 

Pastor Gabriel is an anointed vessel, accepting salvation at the age of 10. She has a love of ministry and exclaims a powerful word of transformation, restoration, and hope for all people!  Her unique style of preaching, passionate energy, and ability to connect with a diversity of people, has allowed her to proclaim the gospel connectionally and ecumenically. Pastor Gabriel has a sincere love for every life/individual, the kingdom, and the body of Christ, as she leads in excellence to effect liberating transformation.

Pastor Gabriel is a native Charlottean.  She credits the power of true believers and prayer as the impacting factor in her formative years and fruitful ministry.

Her professional experiences include Adjunct Professor at Gaston College, Operations Management in corporate America,  Special Education Teacher in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System, and Coordinator of Academic Services and LMS Administrator in the non-profit sector.

Pastor Gabriel earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Master of  Theological Studies from Anderson Theological Seminary, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Hood Theological Seminary.

Pastor Gabriel has served in various capacities in the local church, conference, and connectional levels. She is currently active as a Conference Studies Instructor, Conference Studies Co-Dean.

Her diverse pastoral background includes pastoral assignments in the Los Angeles California area, the mountains of Asheville, NC, the Lake Norman Community of Mooresville  NC, and  senior pastor of  "The Ridge." 

Pastor Gabriel has served as a Chaplain in the Buncombe County Women’s Correctional Center. 

She is committed to the value of family and is a loving wife (Charles) and proud mother (Jaden).

Pastor Gabriel is a practical theologian who embodies serving God with excellence, caring for all of God’s people, and serving through transformative ministry. Pastor Gabriel is sought as a revivalist, evangelist, and teacher.

“Come Meet Our Pastor – She Would Like to Meet You!"