Director of Youth and Family Ministries

Born and raised in New Jersey, Jeffrey L. Smith has dedicated his life to serving others and nurturing youth in faith. His spiritual journey began in 1987 at First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, NJ, where he gave his life to Christ. Under the guidance of Rev. C.H. Brown Sr. and Rev. Dr. Deforest B. Soaries, he served in various roles, including Lead Choir Director, Adult Youth Leader, Bible Study Teacher, and Youth Program Coordinator.

In 2004, Jeffrey relocated to Durham, NC, where he worked as a Site Director for Durham Public Schools and a Mentor for the Duke Youth Academy. During this time, he joined The River Church and became an active member of the youth ministry, earning a certificate in Youth Ministry from Duke Divinity School.

With over 20 years of experience in youth development and youth ministry, Jeffrey has served as Youth Pastor at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, Assistant Ministry Head for Teen Ministry at Word of God Fellowship Church in Raleigh, NC, and Youth Pastor at Agape Fellowship Christian Center in Conyers, GA. He has also held positions as a Program Coordinator at the Union County Juvenile Detention Center, Mental Health Specialist at Rutgers University and Peachford Hospital, and Youth Engagement Specialist at Covenant House Georgia.

Currently serving as the Director of Youth and Family Ministries, Jeffrey is committed to meeting youth where they are—mentally, physically, and spiritually—fostering genuine connections that create impactful ministry experiences. He is dedicated to inspiring the next generation in their faith journeys.