The Rev. Dr. Jaye Peabody Smith will join the BSK Faculty as Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling starting August 1, 2024.
Peabody Smith holds DMin and MDiv degrees from the McAfee School of Theology (Mercer University), a MS in Counseling from Mercer University, a Master of Public Administration from New York University, and a BA in Contemporary Arts from Ramapo College of New Jersey. She was a Doctor of Ministry Coach at McAfee School of Theology, and an Adjunct Professor at Trenholm State Community College (GA), Interdenominational Theological Center (Atlanta) and Beulah Heights University.
Peabody Smith feels called to BSK as the next step in her vocation. “Theologian Parker Palmer shared, ‘Vocation at its deepest level is, “This is something I can’t not do for reasons I’m unable to explain to anyone else and don’t fully understand myself, but that are nonetheless compelling,’” said Peabody Smith. “I am deeply honored to further my vocation at Baptist Seminary of Kentucky. BSK resonates with my values and purpose to advocate for social justice, amplify the voices of women in ministry, and celebrate the spirit of God found in the uniqueness of every student. I am excited and eager to collaborate with such a distinguished faculty and staff.”
“One of Dr. Peabody Smith’s outstanding strengths is her long tenure in congregational leadership,” stated BSK associate professor Laura Levens. Peabody Smith has served in ministry for over 20 years. She accepted her call to preach at New Bethel AME Church in Lithonia, Georgia. She was licensed to preach in 2001 and ordained in 2004. Peabody Smith has served as a Youth Pastor and Executive Pastor in various churches. She is currently the Executive Pastor at Redemptive Life Christian Fellowship in Conyers, Georgia.
Mark Medley, Interim Academic Dean, stated, “We are excited to welcome Dr. Peabody Smith to BSK. She not only brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise of as a licensed professional counselor and therapist, she also brings considerable church leadership experience. Furthermore, she brings her scholarship and methodological approaches to pastoral care with diverse communities, mental health access, and social justice. Our students will benefit greatly from her expertise and wisdom.”
Peabody Smith is a licensed professional counselor and trained in CPE. She most recently served at The Peabody Clinic, LLC, a practice she founded, which provided counseling to individual and couples, as well as facilitated therapeutic support groups.
I’m delighted to welcome Dr. Peabody Smith to the BSK community,” offered seminary president David Cassady. “A strong focus on pastoral care has been a core part of BSK since our founding. Ministers, chaplains and counselors, with God’s help, support persons as they walk through the seasons and challenges of life. Dr. Peabody Smith’s skilled leadership in pastoral care at BSK continues the rich tradition began by Dr. Wade Rowatt, Dr. Rick Landon and Dr. Steve Ivy.”
Persons who give through the The Wade & Jodi Rowatt Fund for Pastoral Care help support BSK’s pastoral care program.
