Meet Our Church Staff

Pastor of Administration

The Reverend Davitra Y. Smith is a preacher, educator, and speaker whose passion is proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ with biblical depth, authenticity, and hope. For nearly 25 years, she has faithfully proclaimed the Good News of Jesus Christ, devoting her life to teaching God's Word and equipping others to discover their God-given purpose. She is the Founder and CEO of Speak Light, LLC, a speaking platform dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering individuals through messages of faith, leadership, and hope.

Known affectionately as "Vitra the Preacha," Reverend Smith has been recognized as a rising preacher through the Dr. Ella P. Mitchell Daughters of Thunder Conference and has served as a Teaching Assistant for Systematic Theology through the Black Seminarian Fellowship. She earned her Master of Divinity from Palmer Theological Seminary and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and a certification in Business Administration from Temple University.

In addition to her ministry, Reverend Smith serves as an educational leader, advocating for positive school culture and student success throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. Her passion for service extends beyond the church through civic leadership and community engagement. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, where she has served as Chapter Chaplain and Co-Chair of the Childhood Hunger Committee. She also served as Chaplain for the Montgomery County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

Licensed to preach under the leadership of Rev. Dr. James S. Hall, Jr., and spiritually mentored by the Late Most Reverend Dr. T. Anthony Bronner, Reverend Smith is committed to preaching Christ with clarity, compassion, and conviction. She is the proud mother of two children, Jeniece and Bakari, and considers her greatest calling to be serving God and His people.

Finance Clerk

Trustee Denise Turner has been a dedicated member of Second Baptist Church since 1968, where she was baptized by Reverend George Kenner. Her journey at Second Baptist continued to flourish as she married Gordon Turner in 1975, also officiated by Reverend Kenner. Together, they have raised three children and are proud grandparents to two grandchildren.

Professionally, Denise had a long and impactful career in the legal field, serving as a notary for 20 years. Her administrative skills were also evident in her role as an administrator for Judge Paula Patrick from 2003 until her retirement in 2020, a position she held with distinction for over 17 years.

In addition to her professional achievements, Denise has been a faithful servant of the Second Baptist Church community. She contributed her time and talents in various ministries, including the Usher Board, Trustee, and Culinary Team. In 2011, she took on the role of Finance Clerk at the church, furthering her commitment to the church’s mission.

Denise Turner’s life reflects a deep devotion to both her family and her community, serving with grace and dedication in every capacity.

Let's Go Higher!