Anton & Antonia

August 9, 2025

Anton & Antonia

August 9, 2025

Our Story

STORY TIME 💝

Another Oakwood love story 💙💛

Anton Cordell Dormer and Antonia Jasmine Primus first crossed paths on February 1, 2025 in Sabbath School class at Oakwood University Church. They were formally introduced to each other later on that same day right under the WORSHIP CENTER sign in the picture. "He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake" (Psalm 23:3).

Her story: At the beginning of 2025, I felt a strong pull to deepen my prayer life. One of the books I was reading during this time was Leap Year: A 21-Day Springboard to the Year You've Been Waiting For by Pastor Debleaire Snell, which motivated me to start fasting and praying like never before. I wanted to take a leap of faith in many areas of my life—especially when it came to love. I was so over the dating scene, but still praying for God to send me a man that would be the priest of our home. Meanwhile, I was also preparing myself to be a helpmeet for the godly man that I was praying for. When Anton walked into my Sabbath School class, I noticed that he was tall, handsome and well put together—but he was a stranger. Honestly, I was just delighted to see another young person in my class. Mid-service my mom called me to "come out to the church lobby to meet her new friend who is also in the military" 🙄. I obliged. As soon as I stepped out of the sanctuary, Anton introduced himself with a warm, firm handshake and pensive eye contact. My mom was making some jokes about how his Air Force bootcamp experience was a far cry from her Army bootcamp experience, then her voice and presence trailed off. Anton & I started talking about what brought him to town, life, work, our mutual connections, and Sabbath School—our conversation was effortless—then my jam started playing 🎵 (the children's story birthday song). I told him I had to go back inside, he asked me for my number, and we parted ways. When church service ended, we found ourselves chatting with each other again, then he asked me if he could pray with me. This was such a refreshing encounter for me and the prayer he prayed was pow🙏🏾er🙏🏾ful🙏🏾. This man spoke over my life, rebuked obstacles in my way, and asked God to bless me in significant ways. Right then, I was jolted into realizing that sitting before me was the type of man I was praying for. At that point, I definitely wanted to get to know him more.

His story: I was earnestly praying and fasting for a God-fearing wife in December 2024. Meanwhile, I made a trip from my duty station in Montgomery to Huntsville, Alabama to visit my grandparents on February 1, 2025. I was very tired from all my travels that morning, but I felt a strong nudge to arrive early for Sabbath School. When I arrived, I sat quietly in the back. That’s when I noticed Antonia. I thought she was attractive, but I reminded myself to stay focused. Toward the end of class, Antonia stood up to share a praise report. That’s when I truly saw her—and thought, “Lord, she’s beautiful and so well spoken… but I’m really not trying to get caught up.” After class, a mutual friend introduced me to her mom, Sister T. Sister T asked whether I was married or single. I told her I was single and praying for a godly wife. Then, she asked if she could introduce me to her daughter. I politely declined because I just didn’t know what I might be walking into. Meanwhile, Sister T was calling Antonia on the phone and asked me to wait. Then, it dawned on me… could her daughter be the girl from Sabbath School? I asked Sister T if her daughter was the girl wearing blue (the fine one). Moments later, Antonia walked out, we clicked, I took her number, and we went our separate ways. Immediately, I began praying and asking God if she was the wife I’d been seeking. By the end of the service, I felt deeply impressed to pray over her. And the rest… is His story.

At the gym as usual 💪🏾

Anton and Antonia began to realize that they both place high value on many of the same things like their walk with God, family, fitness, nutrition, Caribbean culture, etc. This made it very easy for them to find common ground even when they didn't agree on certain things. "Can two walk together, except they agree?" (Amos 3:3).

Her story: Brother Dormer took his time to reach out to me. This helped me understand that he was a man of intention—because when he finally did contact me, he was not playing games 👀. There was nothing casual about our conversation. His questions were pointed yet sensitive. The first time we hung out, we hiked a scenic trail in the cold 🥶 (it was like 40°F). I felt like he was underdressed but he weathered through the entire trail with me—even offering his own thin jacket to me at times 🥲. We discussed our credit scores (lol), our past dating experiences, spiritual beliefs, tithing, children, goals in life, etc. What made me feel comfortable (and develop a lot of respect for him) was seeing how authentic and fearlessly vulnerable he led the conversation by sharing his story with me. He was very nonjudgemental and empathetic when listening to my journey. I really found a friend in him. As time went on, he would consistently assist me in accomplishing my personal goals and reminded me about my value in Christ. Also, we frequently prayed together which enhanced my relationship with God even more.

His story: On our first hangout, Antonia and I had a very honest conversation about our lives and where we felt God was leading us. Throughout the conversation, I was listening closely—not just to her words, but to her values and her vision for the future. Earlier that week, I had asked her to fast and pray with me. That was important to me, because I desired to lead our relationship and, eventually, our marriage in the fear of the Lord.

When I saw how willing and joyful she was to engage in worship, it filled my spirit. I knew then that she was someone who would join me in walking faithfully in God’s calling for our lives. I was deliberate in every step of getting to know her. I didn’t want to waste time, and I knew she didn’t either.

When I visited, we worked out together, spent time in worship, and focused on our individual projects. It became clear early on that Antonia was someone that would hold me accountable to my goals and help me achieve them. And as a driven, purpose-filled woman, I saw that I could support her in walking boldly in her own God-given calling.

More profoundly, our vision for our future home—and our shared desire for a collective ministry—were perfectly aligned. Some things are so good and so clear that you just know God’s hand is all over it. This was one of those moments.

After church 💒

Anton and Antonia were in pre-engagement counseling around this time. They continued asking each other hard questions and included their wise counsellors in the process of getting to know each other. "In the multitude of counsellors there is safety" (Proverbs 11:24).

Her story: A couple weeks into steady communication, he asked me what kind of engagement ring I would like 😅😅. I told him that if we were going to talk about engagement rings, I felt like we should also talk about pre-engagement counseling. He agreed. Shortly after that conversation, we were in the office of Pastor Kimberley Mann. With her spiritual insight, she skillfully guided us through some of our growing pains and provided us with more stimulating questions that helped us to go deeper with each other 💖. She also gave us a workbook called, Preparing for Marriage, by David and Meg Robbins containing assignments that prompted us to seek out seasoned married couples to learn from.

His story: This journey hasn’t been all bliss and warm feelings—it’s taken hard work and commitment. Because Antonia and I were intentional from the beginning, we had to engage in many honest and difficult conversations. These talks forced us to confront personal struggles and past experiences that we could have easily swept under the rug. But instead of avoiding the discomfort, we embraced it—choosing to grow beyond our yesterdays so that, in Christ, we could build a stronger tomorrow.

Early on, I asked Antonia what kind of ring she wanted because I wanted to understand her expectations for life and where her heart truly rested. What I learned was reassuring: Antonia was practical, frugal, and had reasonable expectations. That gave me confidence that I didn’t have to break myself trying to meet unrealistic standards that didn’t align with my current reality. I’m not at my final destination—I’m in the building phase. And praise God, I found someone willing to build with me.

As I continued to get to know Antonia, my community would confirm that Antonia was a godly, caring woman. These conversations made me see beyond her looks and understand that Antonia was a wife.

A date at the Huntsville Botanical Gardens 🪷

Yes, the initials AD + AP are forever engraved somewhere in the garden. "Write the vision and make it plain" (Habakkuk 2:2).

Her story: The more we got to know each other, the more our love and respect grew for one another. Anton would drive 5+ hours one way from his duty station almost every Friday to spend Sabbaths with me. I made sure to send him back home with a large cooler of food for him to eat during the week. The way he poured into me inspired me to get very creative in the kitchen. I sent him back home with dishes like blueberry lavender pancakes 🫐🪻🥞 (like what?? 😂). He has inspired me in so many ways—especially spiritually.

His story: Despite my demanding schedule, I made it a priority to drive to Huntsville as often as I could to see Antonia. During those visits, I spent a lot of time with her, her family, and over time, I began to feel like I was truly part of it. They welcomed me as their own—treating me like a son—and I felt genuinely accepted.

To ease my load, Antonia would always send me back with home-cooked meals and snacks. Those simple gestures saved me time during the week and allowed me to spend more time focusing on my work. But more than that, I began to see the depth of her heart.

Antonia served—not to impress or entrap—but because that’s who she is. Whether it was for someone she loved or someone she barely knew, she poured herself out with compassion and care. The way she nurtured and supported me wasn’t fleeting—it revealed a character built for a lifetime. That was favor.

Before the proposal 💖

Sitting pretty on Memorial Day Weekend 2025 at the Sun Dial Restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia. The love birds traveled to the city to meet up with Anton’s mom, but before their reunion, Anton invited Antonia out on a special date at this iconic spot. "So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 8:15).

Her story: Our ears popped on the panoramic elevator ride up to the restaurant with sweeping views of Atlanta. I thought I was just there for the great company 😍, good food, & the lovely views. Up until this point, we spent most of our time doing the simple things of life (out in nature, at the gym, going to church, reading, etc.). I would cook, so we never really went out to eat. Neither of us watched movies like that, so we didn't really go on those kinds of dates. We already had such a good time doing the mundane things of life. When he told me to wear something nice because we were going out and meeting his mom—I was excited about the new setting and nervous to meet his mom. I didn't really know what to expect except that we were going to have a good time as usual.

His story: Two weeks before I proposed, I asked her father and brother for her hand in marriage. That same day, after receiving their blessing, I purchased the ring. Once I had the confirmation I needed and the support of my family, I realized there was no reason to delay. When you know, you know—and I believe God’s blessings often come with a window of obedience.

With faith in God’s timing and the clarity He gave me, I made the reservations, booked the photographer, and told Antonia we were going to a special dinner with my mom.

The proposal 💍

He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord (Proverbs 18:22)

Her story: He knows I love sunsets and sunrises 🌅. While we were dining in, he told me that there was this beautiful area in the restaurant where you could really see the sunset and the entire city. Where we were sitting was already extremely captivating so I was intrigued to see more! He took my hand and led me to an area where there was a camera set up. I pulled him back and said, "it looks like someone is recording something here—let's not ruin their shot" 👁️👄👁️. He reassured me that it was okay, we could stand in the distance and not ruin "their" shot 😭. Thats when I noticed his tone change and he got down on one knee. I was so flabbergasted that I don't even know what he was saying for real—but of course I said yes! Shortly after this, I fell down the stairs on our way back to our table 🤣🤣🤣. Thankfully he picked me up so lovingly! 🥹

His story: On the day of the proposal, I was focused on making sure everything was just right. During the ride to the restaurant, we wrapped up a bible study we were having that week on the book of Ruth. I highlighted the story of redemption and the beautiful parallels it had to our own journey.

When we arrived, we took the elevator up to the 72nd floor, where the restaurant overlooks the city. After we were seated and placed our orders, I told Antonia I wanted us to watch the sunset together.

The photographer was discreetly waiting in Observer Bay #7. As we walked toward the spot, Antonia thought we were stepping into someone else’s photo shoot. But I gently guided her forward, looked into her eyes, and asked her to be my wife. She said yes!

After the proposal 💃🏾🕺🏾

"You turned my wailing into dancing you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy" (Psalm 30:11).

Her story: I might've sustained a few injuries from my tumble down the stairs but I didn't feel it til much later. 🫠 I just remember us dancing to our own song that we made up in the moment and the sunset was absolutely breathtaking. Anton was so romantic for proposing during the sunset. 🥰🥰🥰

His story: I was relieved to see Antonia glowing with joy, so much so that she literally fell down a few stairs. From that moment on, I started calling her my “omelette”—because she folded! Thankfully, she was okay.

As we ate and laughed at our table, I felt a deep sense of peace. This was the beginning of something truly special.

Singing hymns on the beach 🎵

To God be the glory, great things He hath done! We want to encourage you to continue to hold on to God and His unchanging hand. You may not know what your future holds but trust that God holds your future and He wants to show you great and mighty things which thou knowest not (Jeremiah 33:3). Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God (Philippians 4:6).

Her story: I knew that God would provide a godly man—but it was like Lord I believe, help my unbelief (Matthew 9:24). I didn't know how or when but I created space in my life for the blessing I was praying for. Not only did God provide me with a godly man, but he sent me someone who can identify with me and address me in a way that reaches me. We compliment each other on so many levels. God did exceedingly abundantly above all that I could ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). My encouragement to you is that He can do the same for you. Submit to God and be at peace with him [and come participate in Sabbath School, sis! 😉]; in this way prosperity will come to you (Job 22:21).

His story: My time with Antonia has been about growing into who Christ has called me to be and fulfilling His mission—both individually and collectively.

To the man seeking a woman with godly character: pursue after Christ first. As you walk in your purpose and allow Him to shape your heart, He will give you a clear, God-given vision for your life—and the partner meant to walk alongside you. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

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