NEW YORK
CHURCH OF GOD EXECUTIVE STATE OFFICES
LEADERSHIP
LEADERSHIP
STEVE SMITH
Administrative Bishop
Bishop Steve Smith serves as the Administrative Bishop for the New York Church of God. He is a second-generation Church of God minister.
From early childhood, it was evident that the call and the hands of God was upon his life. At about age 12, he led his first soul to Christ on the way home from school while still living in the beautiful island of Jamaica. Bishop Smith has served the church in various capacities; Administrative Bishop for the New Jersey Church of God for four years, leading the state from mission status to AA status, New York Church of God State Youth and Discipleship Director for eight years and Chairman of the Northeast Winterfest Committee for six years. He also previously served on the International Youth & Christian Education Board, as well as, the Church of God International Discipleship Board. He currently serves on the Lee University Board of Directors and the Church of God Men and Women of Action Board. Bishop Smith has a Master’s Degree in Church Ministries from the Church of God Theological Seminary and is also currently pursuing his Doctorate at Northeastern University. He has also served honorably in the USA Armed Forces; his decorations include The Army Good Conduct Medal and various achievement awards. In November 2011, he ran and successfully completed the New York Marathon (26.2 miles) as an evangelistic outreach tool. In November 2016 he again ran the New York Marathon as a FINISH COMMITMENT church planting project “26 miles 26 church plants”.
Bishop Smith is married to the beautiful Karen Smith, and the Lord has blessed their marriage with two children, Sarah and Johnathan.
KAREN SMITH
Women's Ministries Director
Karen Smith presently serves as the New York Women’s Ministries Director. She is the devoted wife of Steve Smith for 35 years and the mother of two, Sarah and Johnathan. She previously served as the Girls Ministries Coordinator for New York for 8 years as well as the New Jersey Women’s Ministries Director for 4 years. She is very passionate about serving the women of the state and her vision is to bridge the gap among the generations, uniting young adult and older women. Her mission is to lead women of all ages to become their best selves- spiritually, physically and emotionally. Karen has a sincere love for people and a desire to see them grow in their relationship with God.
PETERSON & ROMAINE DENIS
Youth & Discipleship Director
Bishop Peterson Denis brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and servant leadership to his role as the New York State Youth and Discipleship Director. His ministry and professional journey reflect a profound commitment to empowering and advocating for youth, families, and communities, particularly those facing significant challenges. A native of New York City, Bishop Denis accepted Christ at the age of eleven, setting him on a lifelong path of humility, gifted service, and a steadfast desire to fulfill the will of God. Over the years, he has woven together military service, higher education, social advocacy, and ministry into a powerful testimony of servant leadership and spiritual vision.
Professionally, he has served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), giving a voice to children facing neglect, abuse, and trauma in the court system. He also worked as a Social Worker supporting displaced youth and families in need. These roles reflect his compassion and commitment to standing in the gap for the most vulnerable.
Within the church, Bishop Denis has served faithfully in many capacities. His passion for music led him to become the New York State Music Coordinator where he dedicated 12 years to mentoring aspiring musicians and developing worship ministries. Beyond the pulpit, he has championed community outreach and feeding initiatives, reflecting his conviction that true ministry must extend into the heart of the community.
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Bishop Denis is joyfully married to Rev. Romaine Denis, and together they are blessed with one son, Seth Denis.
OFFICE STAFF
AMBER WRIGHT
Administrative Secretary
Amber Wright serves as the Administrative Secretary to Bishop Steve Smith and First Lady Karen Smith, providing essential support in communication, coordination, and administrative needs.