Award-winning gospel artist Kelontae Gavin has stepped into a new season of ministry. On February 22, 2026, the 26-year-old singer was officially installed as Youth Pastor at Favor Ministries in Ridgeville, South Carolina-his hometown church community.
The installation ceremony was led by church leaders Iris Capers and Johnnie Capers and gathered members, supporters, and family for a service celebrating Gavin's call to shepherd the next generation.
Family played a significant role in the milestone moment. Gavin's wife, Nieyana-whom he married in 2024-joined him for the special occasion, along with his parents and grandfather, underscoring the strong family support behind his ministry journey.
During the installation service, Gavin expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and his wife. Addressing the congregation, he said, "Thank you for trusting me and my wife to incubate, to carry in our wombs, what God is doing at Favor Ministries."
Gavin first gained national attention in 2014 when a video of him singing "I Won't Complain" in his high school cafeteria went viral, introducing the young vocalist to millions of viewers online. That moment launched a successful gospel music career that has since produced popular songs such as "No Ordinary Worship," "Hold Me Close," and "Live Again."
Over the past decade, Gavin has become one of the leading voices among the new generation of gospel artists. He is a Stellar Award winner and has received a Dove Award nomination, recognition that has helped cement his place in contemporary gospel music.
Born in Charleston and raised in nearby Summerville, Gavin's connection to Favor Ministries runs deep-he began singing there as a child and grew up in the church community that is now commissioning him into pastoral leadership.
His installation marks a significant step in his calling, as he seeks to balance his national music platform with hands-on pastoral work guiding young believers in faith, worship, and discipleship.
With this new role, Gavin joins a growing group of gospel artists who are also serving in pastoral leadership, bringing their musical influence and spiritual passion directly into local church ministry.
