PASTOR DR. MICHAEL GATEWOOD, GMDMA Liaison for VA Affairs

Pastor, Dr. Michael LaShawn Gatewood is a servant-leader whose life’s work has been devoted to faith, service, and advocacy. With over 25 years in ministry, he has become a respected pastor, counselor, and voice for social justice.

Dr. Gatewood began his journey in ministry as a substance abuse counselor with Celebrate Recovery under Pastor Rick Warren at Saddleback Church in California. For two decades, he faithfully served at Heritage Christian Center in Denver, Colorado, under the late Bishop Dennis Leonard, where he grew in wisdom, leadership, and pastoral care. Known for his dynamic preaching and ability to reach the hurting, Dr. Gatewood has guided countless individuals to healing and restoration through the Word of God.

Before entering full-time ministry, Dr. Gatewood served his country honorably as a member of the 101st Airborne Division. He specialized as a 13 Bravo Field Artillery Soldier and is a combat veteran of Desert Storm and Afghanistan. His years of service left him 100% disabled, yet also fueled his lifelong commitment to stand alongside fellow veterans.

Today, Dr. Gatewood serves on the Board of Alternative Veteran Solutions (AVS), a nationwide veteran advocacy organization. Building on this work, he founded Alternative Veteran Solutions Denver, a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans secure disability benefits, housing, and resources. Each month, Pastor Gatewood directly supports 40–50 veterans under his care and watch. 

Pastor Gatewood’s advocacy extends beyond the church and the veteran community. He is a passionate champion for social justice, minority rights, and equity for all veterans. He has been invited to collaborate with Senator Michael Bennet—a candidate for Governor of Colorado—on critical initiatives such as Military Stand Downs that provide essential services to homeless and underserved veterans. His leadership continues to unite civic leaders, clergy, and policymakers to bring about change that matters.

For 28 years, Dr. Gatewood has shared his life and ministry with his beloved wife, Sharmane Gatewood. Together, they have built a legacy rooted in faith, perseverance, and unconditional love. He is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, deeply committed to his family’s well-being and to mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Passion & Purpose

Pastor Gatewood’s calling is clear: to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to care for the marginalized, and to fight for those whose voices often go unheard. His personal journey—from overcoming addiction and incarceration, to serving in war, to becoming a pastor and humanitarian—has shaped him into a leader who ministers with both compassion and authority.

Whether in the pulpit, the boardroom, or on the front lines of community service, Pastor, Dr. Michael LaShawn Gatewood remains steadfast in his mission: to serve God and his people.