Rev. Parnell Smith Sr

Appointed to Serve the People of God

Rev. Parnell Smith Sr. was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. He received his early education in the Birmingham City School System, laying the foundation for both his spiritual and academic growth. Pursuing higher education, Pastor Smith attended Southern Technical College, where he earned an Associate Degree in Computer Science. His passion for ministry led him to further his studies, and he subsequently earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Pastoral Christian Education from Birmingham-Easonian Baptist Bible College.

Pastor Smith’s journey of faith began with a profound personal transformation as he became a born-again, baptized believer in Jesus Christ, filled with the Holy Spirit. His calling to ministry was divinely appointed as he was called, anointed, and appointed by God to preach and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pastor Smith’s dedication to this calling reflects his unwavering commitment to empowering and equipping people through the Word of God, ensuring that the message of the Gospel reaches individuals both locally and globally.

Pastor Smith’s ministerial career began at Mt. Joy Baptist Church in Trussville, Alabama, where he served faithfully. In January 2000, he was called to pastor First Missionary Baptist Church in Moody, Alabama. During his tenure, he dedicated himself to serving the congregation until January 2005. The following month, in February 2005, Pastor Smith accepted the call to serve as pastor of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Panama City, Florida, where he continues to lead to this day.

Under Pastor Smith’s visionary leadership, New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church has experienced remarkable growth. The congregation, which initially had just over 20 members, has expanded to more than 400 members. Pastor Smith’s leadership style, guided by his belief in doing all things "decent and in order," has fostered both spiritual and physical growth within the church. His ability to combine deep theological knowledge with over 28 years of managerial experience in the healthcare service sector has allowed him to lead with a unique blend of spiritual and practical wisdom.

Pastor Smith has been instrumental in establishing and expanding ministries to meet the diverse needs of both the congregation and the broader community. One of his most notable accomplishments is the founding of the New Bethel Academy (NBA), a Christ-centered institution that provides strong academic foundations to children from infancy to preschool. Through this initiative, Pastor Smith continues to emphasize the importance of empowering and equipping the next generation, ensuring that young people are spiritually grounded while receiving a quality education.

In addition to his pastoral duties, Pastor Smith is deeply involved in community service. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Early Learning Coalition (ELC) and the Pregnancy Resource Center, demonstrating his commitment to addressing the needs of families and young children within the community.

On a personal note, Pastor Smith has been happily married to his wife, Donna, since November 1986. Together, they have built a strong family and are the proud parents of three children: Parnell Jr., Danielle, and Alexis. They are also blessed with four grandchildren: Keylee, Ezra, Aiden, and Micah.

Pastor Smith’s unique abilities, his passion for service, and his infectious spirit to give and build the Kingdom of God have been a tremendous blessing to the New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. Although the church continues to grow and bear good fruit under his leadership, Pastor Smith remains humbly aware that "eyes have not seen, ears have not heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him."