purpose-filled leadership
about our pastors
We believe that lives are transformed through God’s Word, heartfelt worship, prayer, and genuine fellowship.
General Overseer
“I am more passionate about God and His Word today than I was when I got saved in 1974.”
That statement summarizes Rev. Stephen Rathod’s passion: knowing God and ministering His uncompromising Word.
Though he was born the son of a Methodist pastor in Gujarat, India, he didn’t serve the Lord until he came to the United States in 1974 to study at the University of Tulsa, Oklahoma. The day he gave his life to the Lord Jesus, he vowed that he would be a commando for Christ.
After more than forty years of ministry, he has no regrets. He is still on fire for God and consumed with making heaven his home and taking as many with him as he can. He lives what he preaches and preaches what he lives. He is passionate about ministering to ministers and challenging them to preach what they live.
Rev. Rathod has a master’s degree in organic chemistry and two doctorate degrees, but he is like the Apostle Paul: All of that means nothing to him when compared with knowing Christ and the hope of His calling. He has traveled extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa to teach the Word of God and train ministers.
Since 1980, Rev. Rathod and his wife, Lee, have faithfully served at Covenant Family Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He became the Senior Pastor in 1994.
the hearts driving our mission
Pastor Stephen Rathod II and First Lady Melanie Rathod have faithfully served as the Lead Pastors of Covenant Family Church since 2025. After more than 30 years of dedicated leadership by Pastor Stephen and Lee Rathod, they were entrusted with continuing the vision and legacy of a church built on faith, biblical truth, and a heart for serving others.
Together, they are passionate about helping people encounter Jesus, grow in their faith, and discover the purpose God has for their lives. Through authentic leadership, practical biblical teaching, and a welcoming church family, they desire to see lives transformed and communities impacted by the love of Christ.
Married since 2014 and lifelong residents of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Pastor Stephen and First Lady Melanie are committed to building on the strong foundation laid before them while leading with fresh vision, bold faith, and a deep love for people. Their prayer is that every person who walks through the doors of Covenant Family Church finds hope, healing, and a place to belong.
