With over 25 years of ministry service, Michael and Connie Smith have a deep love and passion for people. As Founders and Senior Pastors of THE CHURCH Group Worldwide, they are committed to building mature, skillful believers who are able to take the words off of the pages of the Bible and see them manifested in their everyday lives. Through their use of humor and transparent personal examples, they present Wisdom from the Word of God to help people find their way to triumphant living.

Connie’s love for others has been evident throughout her professional and volunteer life. After graduating from Eastern Michigan University, she began a career as an occupational therapist working to improve the quality of life for people of all ages. Before entering ministry full time, she owned and operated Just For Kids, Inc., which specialized in the care of special needs children and their families.

Michael began his ministry work at the age of 16 at World Changers Church International in College Park, GA. After graduating from their School of Ministry under Dr. Creflo Dollar, he served as a youth pastor and then continued as an associate minister for nine years, eventually overseeing ministry operations on four continents as Chief of Staff and Director of International Covenant Ministries, a worldwide ministry fellowship.

Michael and Connie were married in August of 2001. As a couple, they have traveled throughout the United States and around the globe to minister the Word of God. Their continuing desire is to see God’s people manifest His Word and Will for their lives.

In December of 2002, they planted the first community church of THE CHURCH Group Worldwide in Jacksonville, FL. THE CHURCH has become a place where people of all ethnic, economic, and denominational backgrounds can be taught the Word of God and gather as a united family of believers.

Fueled by a love for God and all people, Michael and Connie continue to pursue the vision that God has placed in their hearts. The ministry that was birthed in Jacksonville is now being taken globally through worldwide television and media, leadership development, and I-CHURCH, the internet congregation of THE CHURCH Group Worldwide.

Michael and Connie currently reside in Jacksonville, FL with their two children, Olivia and Michael, II.