Photo by Brooke Parker Photography
By Candace McLaughlin
A ministry that uses horses to share the gospel is not a typical rodeo drill team. “Sharing the Gospel One Hoofbeat at a Time” is the slogan of Ridin’ on Faith Ministries. Since 2011, this local equestrian group has performed at rodeos, horse shows, schools, prisons and churches, and has also performed at Kentucky Horse Park and Camp Cedar Cliff, as well as producing several of its own outreach ministries.
“We take our horses and the good news of Jesus to venues and audiences that typically wouldn’t hear it,” says Lisa Searcy, founder of Ridin’ on Faith. “We believe that we touch lives through our Christian and patriotic choreographed patterns and skits.” Ridin’ on Faith also takes great pride in honoring the nation’s armed forces, first responders and law enforcement.
Ridin’ on Faith has partnered with Davis Ranch for several years. Davis Ranch, with equestrian facilities in both Mills River and Leicester, has always been supportive of the Ridin’ on Faith programs. “We just try and help each other as best we can, especially when it comes to horses and the use of our community,” Searcy says. “We believe what the Davis Ranch is doing is truly a blessing to the community in all the events that they do, not just the ones we participate in.”
Davis Ranch is hosting its 2nd annual Championship Open Horse Show on October 21 at the Leicester location, and Ridin’ on Faith will be onsite to perform. The show is open to any equestrian in the community, and is great for beginner riders and children. “We greatly value our relationship with Ridin’ on Faith Ministries, and always look forward to their participation in our events,” says Davis Ranch owner Jason Davis.
In addition to the October 21 horse show championship and celebration, Davis Ranch offers ongoing opportunities for horseback riding lessons, boarding, pony camps and arena rentals at both its Leicester and Mills River locations all year long. As part of the 2023 series, there will also be one additional open horse show at Etowah Riding Club on October 7, that is a collaboration between Davis Ranch and Etowah Riding Club.
For more information on Ridin’ on Faith Ministries, visit RidinOnFaithMinistries.org or contact Lisa Searcy at 828.545.4560. For more information on Davis Ranch, visit DavisRanchWNC.com.
