What we believe
We believe the Bible is God's Word, that salvation is by grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ, and that the local church is God's chosen instrument to display His grace in the world. Our worship centers on preaching, teaching, singing, prayer, baptism, and communion.
Learn more about the ARP Church →Meet our leadership
Mark Tankersley
Pastor Mark has led Gaston Community Church since planting it in 2008. He holds an M.Div. from Erskine Theological Seminary and has served churches in Statesville, Tampa, and Gastonia. A lifelong missions advocate, he has served in Nicaragua, Pakistan, Turkey, Mexico, Jamaica, Haiti, and Appalachia. He and his wife Jan have two children and two grandchildren.
Daniel Albuquerque
Born and raised in Brazil, Daniel pastored in the Presbyterian Church of Brazil for thirteen years before moving to the U.S. and studying at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. His ministry is marked by the gospel, relational discipleship, and community engagement. He and his wife Natália are raising three boys who fill their home with joy and energy.
Heather Howell
A classically trained violinist with dual degrees in Music and Art Education, Heather has attended GCC since 2009 and has been the keyboardist since 2021. She has taught music from Rochester to Indonesia, and homeschools her three children. A life of worship and creativity are her driving passions.
Kim Patterson
Kim lives in Dallas, NC with her husband Matt, their two children, and Maple the English Mastiff. She loves family adventures, ballgames, and the beach — and leans daily on Romans 8:28.
Come meet us in person.
The best way to get to know us is a Sunday morning together.