On August 26, 2018 Darryl Palmer was installed as pastor of Antioch Church after serving in ministry as a missionary for over 30 years in Southeast Asia. Darryl, and his wife Kyla, previously worked among the Taliabo ethnic group in the rainforests of Asia-Pacific until they were forced to return to the USA in 2011 when the local government would not renew their visas. During their long tenure ministering among that people group, Darryl and his wife, trained in linguistics, and had several ministry responsibilities. They developed the first written alphabet for the tribe, deciphered the grammar, and translated most of the New Testament and other study and literacy materials for the church. Both have served as national consultants in facilitating church growth and maturity while in Asia.

From 2011 through August of 2018 Darryl was appointed as a national representative and recruiter for Ethnos360 (formerly New Tribes Mission), serving in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The Palmers, have four adult children and have been blessed with 5 grandchildren. Two of their children are involved in full-time ministry in Southeast Asia, serving as missionaries themselves. It’s in the DNA, one might say.

Pastor Darryl describes himself as “more teacher than preacher”, and his philosophy of ministry is characterized by expository teaching of the Word. He ascribes to the apostle Paul’s mission of helping believers to grasp “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27) desiring that the Antioch faithful would become better equipped to understand their Bibles correctly and comprehensively, then serve God and fellow man accordingly. His mission statement would be from Col. 1:28-29. “Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect (mature) in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.”

Pastor Darryl enjoys keeping abreast of current events, watching international soccer matches (since his playing and referee days are over), an occasional fishing trip with buddies, and cooking ethnic dishes from various Asian cultures (especially the spicy ones!)

Contact info: darryl_palmer@ntm.org or via the church phone, during business hours: (757) 242-6911