Wellspring - Oxford

Nathaniel and Shera Rios moved to the great state of Mississippi in August of 2007. They moved from California, along with their three small boys, Treyson, Chandler, and Lyndon, to fill the role of Youth Pastor for Woodlawn Church, pastored by Rev. James Carney. They, along with an incredible staff, fostered a positive youth community in the city, growing a thriving youth ministry in Columbia. They resigned their position in 2012 but continued to be a part of Woodlawn for two more years. While at Woodlawn, they also added another arrow in their quiver, Bryler Rios.

In 2014, they felt God nudging them to plant a church. Through prayer and counsel, they approached the North American Missions board of Mississippi for approval to plant a church in the target city of Oxford, Mississippi. They were approved in September of 2014, and their life-changing journey began.

They moved to Oxford with a small U-HAUL of belongings and a lot of faith. They didn’t know anyone in the city and shortly after began Bible studies in their small apartment. In January 2015, they had their first preview service in a rented building downtown, followed by three more consecutive preview services in February, March, and April.

Wellspring Community Church officially launched on May 3, 2015, with their first service at their Old Taylor Road campus. Since its inception, Wellspring has shared the message of love, hope, and life to the community. Wellspring was founded upon Proverbs 16:22 that states, “Understanding is a WELLSPRING of life unto him that hath it…” The mission of Wellspring is to lead people to a greater understanding of the Word of God and His plan for salvation and discipleship.

In September 2015, their quiver became full with the birth of boy #5, Wesley-Fynn Rios. The hands and feet of these five boys have helped build an Apostolic Church in Oxford. Every week, they give of their time and talent to further the Kingdom. From playing instruments to singing, to running video and media, to passing out flyers door to door, the Rios boys have been an integral part of the growth of Wellspring.

What began with a passionate couple, four small boys, and a burden has grown to be a life-giving, truth-preaching church in Oxford. Many have been baptized in Jesus' name and filled with the Holy Ghost. People have been delivered and set free. Thousands have been ministered to over the years in services, outreach, and community projects. An average Sunday will find their sanctuary filled with people worshipping Jesus Christ.

The journey has been difficult, yet rewarding. Stepping out on the water took complete faith and trust in Him. Many people and churches have invested time and resources into Wellspring, and without them, we wouldn’t be here. We are grateful for every prayer, every note or call of encouragement, and every dollar that has pushed the gospel forward in our city. We continue to spread the gospel and can't wait to see what the future holds for Wellspring Community Church!