Staff
Dr. Don Hooker
Pastor Don Hooker was saved at the age of five in a Cincinnati-area church. Even as a teenager he was deeply involved in ministry, so it was no surprise to his family and friends when he enrolled at Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. There he received his Bachelor of Science in Bible and Pastoral Ministries with a minor in Music. Over the years, Pastor Don has served as a music director, youth minister, Christian school principal, college and career teacher, and associate pastor before becoming a church planter in Columbus, Mississippi. He went on to complete his Master of Arts in Biblical Studies in 2008 and his Doctor of Theology in 2022.
God brought Pastor Don and his wife, Michele, to Serenity in September of 1999. Since then, the church has purchased a new building and additional property, attendance has grown, missions giving has multiplied, and—most importantly—there has been clear spiritual growth among the members.
Pastor Don and Michele were married in 1984. Michele faithfully serves the Lord and supports her husband in many areas of ministry, including children’s classes, ladies’ meetings, music groups, and more. They have one adult son, Michael.
Pastor Don would love for you to come worship with us at Serenity. One of his favorite sayings is, “Come as a guest, leave as a friend.”
Life Verse: Matthew 6:33 – “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Spencer Rathel
Spencer knew from a young age that God was calling him into ministry. A third-generation minister, Spencer began his training as a toddler, serving alongside his parents at the Christian school where they taught in Pennsylvania. Through these early experiences, he learned the many different aspects of church life and service.
After graduating from high school in 2022, Spencer earned his Associate’s Degree in Theology and is continuing his education toward a bachelor’s degree through the correspondence program at Antioch Baptist Seminary. He serves daily at Serenity Baptist Church alongside Pastor Don, where he is actively involved in teaching, preaching, singing, playing drums on the Praise Team, and serving wherever needed. Spencer has a special passion for youth ministry and leads the church’s efforts in organizing Operation Christmas Child, combining local discipleship with global outreach.
In 2025, Spencer married Sammi. Sammi is a 5th grade math and science teacher who has a heart for both education and ministry. She serves faithfully at Serenity, helping with the youth group and assisting in many areas of church life. Together, Spencer and Sammi share a passion for serving the Lord and encouraging others, and they are excited to see how God will use them as a couple in His service.
Spencer loves Southern Gospel music, ice cream, and spending time with family. His life verse is 1 Peter 5:7, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”