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Elder Antonio T. Wells, a native of Davenport, Iowa, was born on August 24th, 1999, as the cherished child of the late Mr. Antonio L. Wells and Mrs. Lisa A. Craig-Boddie. Raised in the nurturing embrace of Temple Baptist Church in Davenport, Well's spiritual journey began with a profound love for God and His Word. His early years were marked by active participation in Sunday School, Sunday Morning Worship, and Bible Class, laying the foundation for his future role as a preacher.
During his Baptist years, Wells not only became the Iowa State Jr. Layman's President for the Iowa Missionary Educational State Convention but also embraced various roles within the Baptist Church. These experiences enriched his understanding of ministry and propelled him toward his ultimate calling as a preacher of the Gospel.
The formative influence of his grandparents, Suffragan Bishop Eddie G. Richards, Jr., and his late wife, Lady Marjorie A. Richards, of the Hazel Crest Assembly Church of the Apostolic faith in Country Club Hills, IL., played a profound role in shaping Well's spiritual identity. Suffragan Bishop Richards not only expanded his biblical knowledge but also instilled a deep love for God's people, significantly contributing to his development as a preacher. Through his grandparents' ministry, Wells gained exposure to the intricacies of the Apostolic Doctrine and the Fullness of the Godhead in Christ Jesus.
In December 2017, a transformative moment unfolded as Wells, moved by the voice of God during a funeral sermon delivered by Suffragan Bishop Richards, was baptized in Jesus' name. The journey continued, and in April 2018, during the Second Sunday, Wells received the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in other tongues, marking a significant spiritual milestone.
An alumnus of Pleasant Valley High School (Class of 2017), Elder Wells embarked on an academic journey, pursuing a bachelor's degree in communications. His educational pursuits took him to the University of Northern Iowa and Scott Community College, where his leadership skills shone as he served as the President of the Black Student Union. Notably, he organized the inaugural Black History Month Celebration for the entire college, leaving an indelible mark on the institution.
Beyond academic endeavors, Elder Wells demonstrated a commitment to community service as a dedicated community organizer for Quad Cities Interfaith and the Gamaliel Network.
His impact extended to various boards, including the Juvenile Justice Coalition of the Quad Cities, The Board of Directors for Quad Cities Interfaith, The Davenport Citizens Advisory Panels, and the Apostolic Archives International, Inc., headquartered in Joplin, MO.
Driven by a passion to share the word of God, Elder Wells initiated an outreach ministry in January 2019, specifically targeting high school and college students with the Apostolic Truth. His fervent belief that "We all have a need for a WHOLE LOT MORE JESUS in times like these" underscored his dedication to spreading the transformative power of faith.
On September 3rd, 2022, Elder Wells celebrated a significant personal milestone as he exchanged vows with the love of his life, Lady Claire Wells, in Chicago, IL. In a subsequent momentous occasion in October 2022, he was ordained and installed as the founding Pastor of Faith Walkers Church, marking a new chapter in his spiritual journey and ministry.
Remaining deeply connected to his roots, Elder Wells expressed gratitude to his home church, The Hazel Crest Assembly Church of the Apostolic Faith, where Suffragan Bishop Eddie G. Richards, Jr., serves as his pastor. Also, Elder Wells credits his mentors, Dr. Gary W. Garrett, Dr. LaMonte McNeese, Elder Stephen Echols, and Bishop Ira Combs Jr., among others, for helping steer him in his ministerial journey. His life and ministry continue to be guided by a profound dedication to preaching and teaching the Gospel, as he inspires others with the transformative power of faith and a life devoted to the services of God.
Psalms 105:1 "O give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people."
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