Its so nice to meet you.
We are bursting with excitement to see you at Antlers First Assembly Church! We can't wait to get to know you better, share in your journey, and welcome you into our church family. Here's a little about us: we're a community passionate about living out our faith, serving others, and growing together in Christ. With ministries for all ages, from vibrant children's programs to engaging adult studies, there's a place for everyone to connect, learn, and be part of something truly special. Come, let's explore faith and fellowship together!
Meet our Pastors
Pastor Gary & Karen Mitchell
Gary and Karen Mitchell have been happily married for over 40 years, dedicating their lives to pastoring, mentoring, evangelism, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Their deep passion for the lost and their commitment to building lasting, eternal relationships shape and drive their ministry.
Karen has a love for gardening and landscaping, which is evident in her active role as a member of the Antlers Garden Club. She takes great joy in decorating both the church property and other spaces, using her exceptional talent to create beautiful, welcoming environments. As a gifted administrator, she leads the Girls Ministry at Antlers First while also volunteering on the worship team, in the nursery, and at every church gathering—cooking, cleaning, and serving with a joyful heart. Additionally, she is a trusted mentor to young mothers, offering wisdom and guidance that is deeply valued.
Gary has been actively involved in ministry since his teenage years. From the age of 16 to 20, he spent every weekend bringing children to church on a red, white, and blue school bus. During those four years, he maintained an incredible average of 82 kids on his bus each week. After college, he continued his ministry through youth work, evangelism, and leadership roles as both a staff pastor and lead pastor. Outside of church, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities—though he humbly claims he isn’t particularly skilled at any of them.
Above all, the Mitchells' greatest passion and driving force is their family. They are devoted to their three children and four grandchildren, cherishing every moment they spend together.
Completely committed to their ministry at Antlers First, Gary and Karen are overjoyed to be a part of the Antlers, Oklahoma, community, serving wholeheartedly in the place they call home.
Worship and Children's Directors
Zack & Jessica Mitchell
Zack and Jessica Mitchell possess a talent that goes beyond words. As accomplished ministers of the gospel, they have faithfully served in various roles, including pastors, youth pastors, and worship leaders. Their leadership is marked by excellence, dedication, and commitment to leading by example. Both are exceptional administrators and willingly take on any task needed at Antlers First.
Zack Serves as the Worship Director bringing passion and inspiration to every service, while Jessica leads the children's church as the Children's Ministry Director. Filling the children's young hearts with the gospel and nurturing them on their faith journey.
Outside of ministry Zack and Jessica share a love for adventure. They enjoy traveling with their children exploring breathtaking landscapes of Pushmataha County. As avid outdoors enthusiast they also take great joy in fishing and hunting.
Above all their greatest joy comes from their children- Addyson, Margaret, and Brody- who are the light of their lives.
Youth Pastor and Women's Director
Caleb & Chelsi Hooker
Caleb and Chelsi Hooker are a young couple with a deep passion for ministry and a heart for the next generation. They serve as the dedicated youth leaders of Antlers First, pouring their hearts into mentoring and guiding teenagers, who deeply love and respect them in return.
Beyond her role as youth director, Chelsi also leads the women’s ministry at Antlers First, providing encouragement and support to women of all ages.
Caleb works full-time as a carpenter, while Chelsi is a full-time nurse. Despite their busy schedules, their greatest joy comes from their faith, their ministry, and their family. Above all, they cherish their greatest blessings—their three beautiful children, Sawyer, Aspen, and Jase.
