Joe Martinez || Lead Pastor

Pastor Joe has been the lead pastor at First Assembly since 2016. He is an active member of Little River’s Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club, and Ashdown’s Ministerial alliance. He has a BS in Business Management, an MA in Theological Studies, and is completing an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He believes in “preaching the Word” and being “led by the Spirit.”

He and his wife Heather have 3 children they adore

Heather Martinez || Music Ministry

Heather leads worship from the keyboard on Sundays as well as volunteering to help the youth group on Wednesdays.

Heather is the wife of Pastor Joe

Royce Mullins || Youth Pastor

Pastor Royce Mullins is committed to training teenagers in the Word of God and has a blast doing it! From Wednesday youth group, youth camps, and laser tag to lock-ins, football games, and bible studies, Royce helps teenagers find their place in Jesus. He loves his wife, daughter, dog, and Star Wars.

Josh Thomson || Outreach Pastor

Pastor Josh is passionate about the Great Commission. His job is to ensure the church is reaching beyond the 4 walls of the church and inviting whoever will come to the Kingdom of God. Josh regularly fills the pulpit, preaches in the county jail every week, and spearheads all outreach efforts of Ashdown First Assembly.

He and his wife Marli have 5 beautiful children

Marli Thomson || Children’s Ministry

Marli loves children! She teaches them to love the Lord, with all their heart, mind, and soul. A former schoolteacher, Marli combines creative biblical education with outrageous fun. When she is not working at church or raising her 5 children, you can see her working on the farm or running her business, Hen & Chicks Farm

Marli is the wife of Pastor Josh