Rev. Sara Ewing-Merrill, HopeGateWay’s lead pastor, reclaims Mary Magdalene as the defining model of faithful presence - one who never abandoned Jesus through anointing, crucifixion, burial, or resurrection. In a time of fear and uncertainty, Pastor Sara calls the congregation to embody Mary’s example: to stay, to witness, and to trust that love wins even in the darkest moments.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​