Reverend LaReesa C. Smith, a former teacher and counselor in Baltimore, is committed to educating people about the importance of Bible study and how God wants each of us to lead our lives as Christians. As a result, stressing the importance of Bible study is often the focal point of her messages. It is also evident that her commitment to Bible study and Christian education is a special part of the ministry that she brings to Metropolitan United Methodist Church in Severn, Maryland, where she is currently serving as the pastor.

Reverend Smith's background makes her uniquely qualified to teach people of all ages, young and old, about the importance of God's word. After completing Forest Park High School, she matriculated at Coppin State College, where she received the Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood education. As a student at Coppin she pledged for the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc and was initiated into the Nu Gamma Chapter. She continued her professional studies and education at John Hopkins University, where she was awarded the Master of Science Degree in Guidance and Counseling.

While doing the work of a teacher and counselor in Baltimore, she was active in the life of the church as a Lay Speaker, Director of Christian Education, Choir member, Communion Steward, Director of Vacation Church School, and Chairperson of Women's Day. It was in the context of these experiences that God called her into the Gospel Ministry.

In 1986 Reverend Smith was awarded the Master of Divinity from the Theological School at Drew University. In May 1992, she was also awarded a Doctorate Degree in Sacred Theology from Family Bible Ministries College and Seminary. Her studies and leadership roles in the church have made her a dynamic and exciting speaker.