Pastor describes new state exec as picture of gospel knocking down barriers
Bill Warren, President of the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware (left), and Michael Trammell, president of the Convention�s General Mission Board (right), congratulate Kevin Smith on his election as the executive director. (Photo courtesy of the Mid-Atlantic Baptist Network)
Louisville—Kevin Smith, who was elected president of the Kentucky Baptist Convention last fall, has accepted the position of executive director for the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware.
Smith, who also serves as teaching pastor at Highview Baptist Church, was unanimously elected to the position by the General Mission Board of the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware.
“Kevin has been such a blessing to Highview,” said Randy Overstreet, executive pastor of Highview Baptist Church, “A gentle and humble man whose gifting as a preacher and professor has propelled him to be recognized not just in SBC circles but internationally as well.”
Upon election, Smith was the first African American to serve as president of the Kentucky Baptist Convention, making headlines not only in Kentucky but in other places as well.
“Highview was excited when Kevin was elected president of our state convention,” added Overstreet, “Being the first African American to hold this office, is not only historic, but also a beautiful picture of the gospel knocking down barriers.”
Smith, who is considered one of the more dynamic Southern Baptist preachers in the country, is very active in state and national denominational affairs.
“(Smith) consistently models familial and ministerial integrity,” said Curtis Woods, associate executive director for convention relations at the Kentucky Baptist Convention, “As a champion of gospel-centered reconciliation, Smith pursues unity in the bond of peace within the body of Christ.”
Andrew Dyer, pastor of Corinth Baptist Church in London, will replace Smith as KBC president.
“I assure you that (Smith) was elected president of the convention based on his qualifications and not because of his race,” added Overstreet, “(Smith’s) impact within the church, his ministry outside of the church with Harley Riders and to local schools will surely show an eternal kingdom impact.”
Smith leaves Kentucky having made a profound impact in the name of the Lord on many Kentucky Baptists.
“Smith is a Southern Baptist by conviction, not concession,” added Woods.
“We commend Kevin to Maryland and Delaware with great anticipation of what God will do in the Mid-Atlantic region,” said Overstreet. (WR)
Cary Donnell