Pastor Trevor Forbes was the spiritual catalyst who helped transform the dreams of Antioch’s founding members into a tangible reality. His leadership was marked by deep faith, unwavering commitment, and a remarkable ability to inspire unity among the group.

From the church’s inception, Pastor Forbes provided both practical guidance and spiritual encouragement, helping the fledgling congregation navigate the many challenges of starting a new faith community. He recognized the unique needs of the eastern Long Island area and encouraged the group to reach out, build relationships, and create an environment where all felt welcome.

Pastor Forbes led the initial meetings, organized evangelistic efforts, and worked closely with the founding families to ensure that every member had a voice in shaping the church’s future. His pastoral care extended beyond the pulpit, as he frequently visited members’ homes, offered counsel, and prayed with families facing difficulties.

Under his leadership, the church began to establish its identity, one rooted in mission, inclusivity, and spiritual growth. Evangelistic seminars and community outreach initiatives, championed by Pastor Forbes, quickly became cornerstones of Antioch’s ministry.

Through his vision and example, he laid the groundwork for a culture of service and dedication that continues to define the church today. Even after his tenure, the principles and values he instilled have remained an integral part of Antioch’s DNA, guiding its growth and mission.

Pastor Forbes’s influence is still felt whenever members gather in fellowship and worship, as the congregation continues to build upon the foundation he helped establish. His legacy is one of faith, perseverance, and a profound love for God and community.

Pastor Oriel Thomas succeeded Pastor Forbes and brought with him a unique blend of wisdom, compassion, and pastoral sensitivity. His tenure was characterized by a deep commitment to nurturing the spiritual lives of church members and fostering strong, supportive relationships within the congregation.

Pastor Thomas was known for his thoughtful sermons, which often addressed both the challenges and joys of Christian living, providing practical guidance rooted in biblical truth. He prioritized the development of small group ministries, encouraging members to connect with one another in meaningful ways outside of regular worship services.

In times of need, Pastor Thomas was quick to offer support, visiting homes, comforting the bereaved, and standing alongside those experiencing hardship. His leadership style emphasized collaboration, empowering lay leaders to take active roles in the church’s ministries and outreach programs.

Under his guidance, Antioch continued to grow, both in numbers and in spiritual maturity. Pastor Thomas also placed a strong emphasis on youth involvement, ensuring that the church’s younger members felt valued and included.

He fostered an environment of inclusivity and acceptance, welcoming newcomers and integrating them into the life of the church. His years of service left a lasting impact, as many members credit his leadership with helping them deepen their faith and sense of community.

Pastor Thomas’s influence endures in the church’s ongoing commitment to spiritual growth and holistic care for its members.

Pastor Orette Mitchell’s period of leadership was marked by a dynamic approach to ministry and an infectious enthusiasm for community engagement. His arrival brought renewed energy to Antioch, as he encouraged members to think creatively about ways to serve their neighbors and make a positive impact beyond the walls of the church. Pastor Mitchell was a tireless advocate for outreach, organizing events and initiatives that connected the church with the broader community. He believed that the church’s mission extended far beyond Sabbath worship, and he inspired members to participate in service projects, health fairs, and local charity efforts. Pastor Mitchell’s sermons reflected his passion for practical Christianity, urging the congregation to live out their faith in tangible ways. He also prioritized collaboration with other local churches and organizations, building bridges and fostering partnerships that enriched the community as a whole. His leadership style was inclusive and empowering, encouraging church members to take ownership of ministries and develop their leadership skills. Pastor Mitchell’s commitment to outreach helped Antioch establish a reputation as a church that truly cares for its community. His legacy can be seen in the ongoing spirit of service and hospitality that continues to define the congregation. Through his innovative ideas and unwavering dedication, Pastor Mitchell left an indelible mark on the church, reminding all that faith must be put into action to truly make a difference.

During a period of transition, Dr. Linford Martin stepped forward to serve as Antioch’s interim pastor, bringing with him a wealth of experience, wisdom, and a calming presence that was much needed at the time. His first term as interim pastor was characterized by stability and continuity, ensuring that the church’s ministries and worship services continued without interruption. Dr. Martin approached his role with humility and a deep sense of responsibility, listening carefully to the concerns of members and providing thoughtful counsel as the congregation navigated the uncertainties of pastoral transition. His sermons were both insightful and comforting, often addressing the unique challenges faced by the church during this time. Dr. Martin made it a priority to maintain open lines of communication, keeping the congregation informed and involved in the search for a permanent pastor. He also worked closely with church leaders, offering support and encouragement as they took on additional responsibilities. Despite being in a temporary role, Dr. Martin invested fully in the life of the congregation, participating in community events and building relationships with both long-time members and newcomers. His steady leadership helped preserve a sense of unity and purpose, allowing the church to weather the transition with grace and resilience. Members recall his kindness, approachability, and unwavering faith as hallmarks of his ministry. Dr. Martin’s first interim tenure laid the groundwork for a smooth transition to future leadership, cementing his reputation as a trusted and respected shepherd.

Pastor Corben Crew joined Antioch during a time of significant transition, providing essential support and guidance as the church adjusted to changes in leadership. Though his tenure was relatively brief, Pastor Crew made a lasting impression through his dedication, warmth, and commitment to the congregation’s well-being. He quickly established rapport with church members, taking time to listen to their stories, concerns, and hopes for the future. Pastor Crew’s sermons were encouraging and practical, reinforcing the importance of faith, perseverance, and community during times of uncertainty. He placed a strong emphasis on maintaining the church’s sense of unity, working closely with elders and ministry leaders to ensure that all aspects of church life continued smoothly. Pastor Crew also prioritized pastoral care, visiting members who were ill, supporting families in crisis, and celebrating moments of joy with the congregation. His ability to adapt to new circumstances and build trust with the church family helped create a sense of stability and reassurance. Even in a short period, Pastor Crew’s leadership was marked by a genuine concern for people and a willingness to serve wherever needed. His contributions during this transitional phase helped prepare Antioch for the next chapter in its journey, leaving a positive and enduring legacy.

In yet another season of transition, Dr. Linford Martin graciously returned to serve as interim pastor, once again providing the steady leadership and spiritual guidance that had blessed the church during his earlier tenure. His return was met with appreciation and relief, as members knew they could rely on his wisdom and experience to shepherd the congregation through another period of change. Dr. Martin approached this second interim role with the same dedication and care as before, ensuring that the church’s ministries, worship services, and outreach efforts continued without disruption. He remained attentive to the needs of members, offering support and encouragement as they navigated the emotional and logistical challenges of transition. Dr. Martin’s sermons provided both comfort and challenge, inviting the congregation to trust in God’s faithfulness and remain committed to their mission. He worked closely with church leaders, helping to develop strategies for addressing immediate needs while also preparing for the arrival of a permanent pastor. His presence brought a sense of continuity and stability, which was especially important during uncertain times. Dr. Martin’s willingness to serve repeatedly as interim pastor demonstrated his deep love for the church and his commitment to its ongoing health and growth. Members continue to remember his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith as sources of inspiration and strength.

Pastor Lincoln Smith’s tenure at Antioch was marked by a forward-looking vision and an ambition to help the church grow both spiritually and physically. He entered his role with a strong sense of purpose, guiding the congregation through important decisions and encouraging them to dream big about the future of their church. Pastor Smith’s leadership style was characterized by strategic planning and a collaborative approach, involving members in the process of setting goals and identifying opportunities for expansion. He worked diligently to strengthen the church’s ministries, create new programs, and foster a culture of innovation and growth. One of his major focuses was the development of plans for a new church building, which he believed would provide the space and resources needed to serve the community more effectively. Although these plans were not ultimately realized, Pastor Smith’s efforts inspired the congregation to think creatively and remain hopeful about future possibilities. He also prioritized spiritual growth, delivering sermons that challenged members to deepen their faith and embrace their roles as leaders and servants. Pastor Smith’s ability to cast a compelling vision and rally the church around common goals left a lasting impact, even as some dreams remained unfulfilled. His leadership reminded Antioch of the importance of perseverance, hope, and unity in pursuing God’s calling.

Dr. Eddly Benoit brought a fresh perspective and renewed vitality to Antioch, focusing on both the spiritual and physical aspects of church life. His tenure was marked by significant improvements to the church’s facilities, as he oversaw renovations and enhancements that created a more welcoming and functional environment for worship and fellowship. Dr. Benoit understood the importance of creating a space where people felt comfortable, inspired, and connected, and his efforts in this area were widely appreciated by the congregation. Alongside these practical improvements, he also placed a strong emphasis on spiritual engagement, delivering thoughtful sermons and organizing programs that encouraged members to grow in faith. Dr. Benoit was deeply committed to fostering a sense of community, often organizing gatherings and events that brought members together in meaningful ways. His leadership style was approachable and collaborative, inviting input from a wide range of voices and empowering members to take active roles in ministry. Dr. Benoit’s ability to balance attention to detail with a broader vision for the church’s future helped set Antioch on a path of continued growth and renewal. His tenure not only improved the church’s physical space but also deepened the congregation’s sense of unity and shared purpose.

Pastor Neil Turner stepped into leadership at Antioch during one of the most challenging periods in recent history—the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This unprecedented time demanded creativity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of the congregation. Pastor Turner quickly adapted to the rapidly changing circumstances, implementing new strategies for worship, communication, and community support. He played a key role in transitioning the church to virtual services, ensuring that members remained connected and spiritually nourished despite physical separation. Pastor Turner’s sermons provided encouragement and hope, addressing the fears and anxieties many were experiencing. He also prioritized pastoral care, checking in regularly with members, offering prayer and support, and coordinating efforts to assist those facing hardship. His leadership was marked by transparency and open communication, keeping the congregation informed and engaged as they navigated uncertain terrain together. Pastor Turner fostered a sense of unity and resilience, encouraging members to look out for one another and remain hopeful in difficult times. His ability to lead with compassion and adaptability left a lasting impact, helping Antioch emerge from the pandemic stronger and more connected than before.

Dr. Casey Adams currently leads Antioch into a new era marked by growth, renewal, and forward-thinking vision. His approach to leadership is both strategic and deeply pastoral, as he seeks to honor the church’s rich history while preparing it for future challenges and opportunities. Dr. Adams has overseen a number of important initiatives, including efforts to preserve the congregation’s history, revitalize its facilities, and upgrade technology to enhance worship and outreach. Under his guidance, the church has embraced new methods for connecting with members and reaching the wider community, leveraging digital tools and innovative approaches to ministry. Dr. Adams has also been instrumental in laying the groundwork for a new sanctuary, guiding the congregation through the necessary planning and preparation with patience and wisdom. His sermons are thoughtful and inspiring, inviting members to deepen their faith and embrace their roles as participants in God’s ongoing work. Dr. Adams is known for his inclusive leadership style, valuing input from a diverse range of voices and encouraging collaboration at every level. He has worked to create a culture of openness, hospitality, and service, ensuring that Antioch remains a welcoming home for all who seek spiritual growth and community. As the church looks to the future, Dr. Adams’s leadership is characterized by hope, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the mission and vision that have guided Antioch from the very beginning.