There was a biting chill in the pre-dawn hours the first Sunday of April, as trucks, cars, and a tour bus pulled onto the property of Happy Trails Cowboy Church for a special Easter SonRise service. Working quickly, volunteers set up a flat bed trailer at the arena shelter for The Redeemers of Faith, a gospel group hailing from Clinton, SC.
By 7:00 AM the arena shelter was packed with over 100 attendees, donned in warm coats against early morning shivers. Among visitors and members, there was a spirit of oneness. All were there for one purpose: to celebrate a special day of the year for Christians – that of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Redeemers of Faith, with their special blend of voices, blessed all with several songs of praise to our Risen Savior. Afterwards, former pastor, Doug Jones (retired), introduced the new Pastor, Scott Lawson, and his wife Noelle. After over a year of research and praying, the pastor search team of HTCC felt God-led to call Scott as the
church’s new pastor. A hush fell over the crowd as Pastor Jones prayed for God’s blessing on the new pastor and the service. Pastor Lawson then launched into a sermon that was God-sent, addressing the Christian’s fight to stay strong in faith while fighting desires to remain in worldly sins. He spoke of God’s goodness and His love and His desire that we give our lives totally to Him.Following Pastor Lawson’s sermon, and a final song by The Redeemers, all adjourned to the church building, where breakfast awaited inside. Thanks to many who provided and served a sumptuous meal of eggs, grits, sausage, biscuits, jams and beverages.
Pastor Lawson is a citizen of Simpsonville and a graduate of Hillcrest High School and Mars Hill University. He and his wife, Noelle, have been married for 26 years and are the parents of two sons. Owner of Hydro Turf Landscaping, Scott is also Assistant Recreation Minister and Young Adult Minister at First Baptist Simpsonville. He and his wife, Noelle, are Biblical Counselors as well. Scott will serve as the bi-vocational pastor for Happy Trails. His life verse is Psalm 73:26: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” In his own words, he is a structured person who thinks that through prayer, seeking after God, following His guidance, hard work and discipline, comes success.”
Located at 9530 Augusta Road, Pelzer, Happy Trails Cowboy Church holds several events annually, starting in March, at the arena it built on the property several years ago. Fun Days are horse-related events held the first Saturday in March, April, May, September, October, and November. The April Fun Day featured the state heritage horse again this year: the Marsh Tacky. This group will also co-sponsor the October Fun Days. Come out and enjoy the fun, and learn more about South Carolina’s state heritage horse.
In addition to the equestrian fun days, horse clinics and other events are featured throughout the year. Visit the Happy Trails Facebook page to learn more about events and church service times. Drop for a visit sometime — you will be welcomed with a handshake and a smile.♦
