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History of Antioch East

In 2007, under the visionary leadership of the Reverend Dr. Stafford J.N. Wicker, Antioch East AME Church was founded. Dr. Wicker, a dynamic and spirit-filled leader, had a passion for expanding Christian witness and kingdom-building. At the age of 16, he answered God's call and pursued his education, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Wilberforce University, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctor of Divinity from Turner Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA. Dr. Wicker's drive for growth was rooted in his DNA, and he was not satisfied with the status quo.


In 2007, as people returned home to the area after retirement, conversations and prayers led to a significant expansion effort. Antioch AME Church in Stone Mountain purchased 15 acres of land at 1790 Ebenezer Road SW in Conyers, GA, which included a sanctuary, fellowship hall, and other facilities. This marked the beginning of "One Church in Three Locations," under the late Bishop William P. Deveraux of the 6th Episcopal District and Presiding Elder Earle Ifill. The groundbreaking ceremony in November 2007 was attended by pastors, church members, and the community, celebrating this bold step. Dr. Wicker became the first pastor in the AME Church to control 82 acres of land, making him a pioneer in land acquisition for the denomination.


From 2007 to 2016, several interim pastors led Antioch Stone Mountain under Dr. Wicker’s leadership, while services at Antioch Conyers mirrored those at the founding church. In 2015, Reverend Frances Hunter was appointed to lead Antioch Conyers. She was a dynamic leader who exemplified both spiritual knowledge and community engagement, helping the church grow in membership as people joined and became involved.


A major milestone for the church came on July 11, 2016, when Dr. Wicker was elected and consecrated as the 137th Bishop of the AME Church at the 50th Quadrennial Conference, making him the first pastor from Antioch to reach this position.


In October 2016, during the Mid-Year Meeting of the Sixth Episcopal District Conference, Reverend Shawn Drains was appointed as the new pastor of Antioch Conyers by Bishop Reginald T. Jackson. Reverend Drains, a spirit-filled leader, oversaw a period of growth, where bible studies, youth involvement, and worship services flourished.


On May 17, 2017, at the 142nd session of the Atlanta North Georgia Annual Conference (ANGAC), Antioch Conyers was officially established as an independent congregation with 125 members, separate from Antioch Stone Mountain. The church was renamed Antioch East African Methodist Episcopal Church, marking the start of a new chapter.


In May 2019, Reverend John D. Young was appointed as the second pastor of Antioch East. Known for his energy and engagement with the youth, Pastor Young also led the church through financial consolidation and helped modernize the church’s operations. His leadership further solidified the church’s foundation, advancing the church technologically and spiritually.


In November 2021, the young and dynamic Reverend Clarence Mitchell was appointed as the third pastor of Antioch East. Pastor Mitchell immediately began cultivating relationships within the church and community. His leadership has focused on bridging generational gaps, involving youth and young adults, and expanding outreach efforts. Under his guidance, Antioch East has hosted workshops, community improvement initiatives, and formed partnerships with local leaders to positively impact the community. New ministries were developed, including Grief Share Ministry, Young Adult Ministry, Sister to Sister, Drive-Thru Prayer, Food Pantry, and Children’s Church. Antioch East renovated the fellowship hall, adding new windows, HVAC units, flooring, and siding. The church also partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and continued its monthly food giveaway in collaboration with St. Paul AME Church of Covington. In 2022, Antioch East became a polling precinct, further embedding the church in the local community. We continue to make an impact on God’s house with new church doors, HVAC units for the sanctuary, and a complete renovation of the administrative wing.


As we look to the future, the vibrancy of Antioch East AME Church’s ministry remains undeniable. Our commitment to spiritual growth, service, and community outreach continues to shine brightly, reflecting the energy and faithfulness of our congregation. With new ministries flourishing and the bonds of fellowship deepening, the potential for further impact in both the church and the community is boundless. We are excited to see what God has in store as we remain rooted in our faith and committed to growing in love.

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Faith

Faith is the cornerstone of our church. It is part of every activity that we do, every meeting that we hold. We believe in our Lord, and that our actions are a reflection of his goodness. 

Scripture

We look to the Lord for guidance in our lives. In Scripture, we find all that we need to guide us in the right path. Reading and understand Scripture helps us all live meaningful lives. 

Community

Join us. We welcome each and every one of you to encounter the Lord's unconditional love with us. Inside each of us is a purpose and meaning to be fulfilled by God. 

Youth Ministry

The Youth Ministry is dedicated to empowering young people to grow in their faith, develop meaningful relationships, and explore their God-given potential. Through engaging activities, Bible studies, and service opportunities, the ministry provides a safe and supportive space where youth can ask questions, share experiences, and build a strong foundation in Christ. The goal is to nurture spiritual growth, foster community, and inspire young people to make a difference in the world around them.

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Anchored Young Adult Ministry

The Anchored Young Adult Ministry is a community focused on building a strong foundation of faith while navigating the challenges of young adulthood. Through fellowship, service, and spiritual growth, members support one another in staying rooted in their beliefs and discovering their purpose. Together, they seek to grow in faith, deepen connections, and make a positive impact on their communities.

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Our Pastor

The Rev. Clarence A. Mitchell Jr. is a dedicated pastor whose unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel has touched many lives. Born and raised in Cross, SC, Rev. Mitchell holds a degree in Elementary Education from South Carolina State University. He began his professional career as an educator, teaching 4th, 5th, and 6th grades in various districts across Orangeburg, Richland, and Berkeley Counties. Although he found success in the classroom, Rev. Mitchell felt a deeper calling. Realizing that his life’s purpose extended beyond education, he delivered his initial sermon, “I Just Can’t Keep It to Myself,” on January 10, 2016, marking his entry into pastoral ministry.


Eager to strengthen his theological foundation, Rev. Mitchell pursued and completed his studies at Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. During his time there, he excelled in both academic and leadership roles, serving as the Turner Fellowship President. His leadership extended to his role as Assistant Pastor at St. Paul AME Church, where he gained valuable experience ministering to a diverse congregation. In 2019, he was ordained as an Itinerant Deacon and assumed his first pastoral role at Singleton Chapel AME Church in Georgetown, SC.


At Singleton Chapel, Rev. Mitchell demonstrated his ability to blend spiritual guidance with practical support. He led the church in several community outreach efforts, including a food drive that provided meals for over 100 families during times of economic hardship. He also organized financial wellness seminars, equipping his congregation with tools to better manage their resources. Under his leadership, the church flourished, becoming a beacon of hope and support within the community.


In 2021, Rev. Mitchell’s dedication and service were further recognized when he was ordained as an Itinerant Elder. Later that year, he took on a new role as pastor of Antioch East AME Church, where he has continued to focus on spiritual development and community engagement. One of his first major projects was the transformation of the church’s fellowship hall into a versatile space that now serves as the hub for various outreach initiatives. From hosting youth programs to community dinners, the revitalized fellowship hall stands as a testament to his commitment to creating spaces that nurture spiritual growth and foster strong community bonds.


Rev. Mitchell's commitment extends beyond the pulpit. He is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, where he contributes to service projects that align with his mission of uplifting and empowering others. With a heart devoted to God and a mission to let his light shine, Rev. Mitchell’s ministry is driven by the scripture Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men and women, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” He continually strives to embody this verse, inspiring others to live lives of faith and service.


Through his work, Rev. Mitchell has built a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering faith. He remains dedicated to the spiritual and personal growth of his congregation, consistently attributing his successes to the grace and guidance of the Almighty. Whether leading worship, mentoring young leaders, or serving the community, Rev. Mitchell’s life and ministry are rooted in the love and teachings of Jesus Christ, reflecting a profound commitment to the Kingdom of God.

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