STAFF
Pr. Shawn McDowell
Senior Pastor
Pastor Shawn McDowell, a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, became the shepherd of our flock in January of 2018. Joined by his wife: Carrie, they bring a wealth of experience paired with a passion for the Word of God.
Pr. Shawn is a veteran of the United States Army, 82nd Airborne. He had a successful career in commercial construction, before being called to build God's Kingdom. He has a master's degree from Life Christian University and is ordained by the Assemblies of God.
Pr. Shawn has five main loves in life: God, his wife, his children, ice cream, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. In that order, we are sure. Stop by the ice cream parlor and get him something with chocolate, and you will have won over his affection.
Pr. Carrie McDowell
Co-Pastor
Pastor Carrie McDowell is our
co-pastor and the wife of the senior pastor. She grew up in Connecticut but spent many weekends skiing with her grandfather in Vermont.
Pr. Carrie is best known for her caring spirit and love for those around her. She loves learning and teaching, evidenced by her dedication to homeschooling for 19 years. She is a graduate of Keene State College, and holds a bachelors of Ministry Leadership from Ascent College, a masters degree from Life Christian University, and is currently enrolled at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. She is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God.
Pr. Carrie loves to crochet and read. However, it is not unlikely for you to find her cutting loose at Busch Gardens, especially in the summer when Water Country is in full swing.
Taemon Thomas
Worship Leader
Taemon Thomas is a Smithfield native who began playing music when he was 10 years old. He began attending Smithfield Assembly in 2019, quickly became a member of Thusia Worship, and joined the staff in 2022 as the worship leader. The goal of Thusia is to use their giftings to lead the congregation into God’s presence so they can experience life transformation. Taemon married his high school sweetheart Sarah in 2022. Taemon hates the cold, so in the winter you’ll find him inside hanging out with his friends. In the summer you can look for him at the beach.
Robin Ferguson
Bookkeeper
Robin Ferguson is a well traveled member of our family most recently derived from Mount Olive, North Carolina. She and her daughters, Rachel and Sarabeth are passionate about serving God and using their artistic gifts to serve Him and the church. Robin also has a son, Josh who is currently serving our great country as a member of the United States Air Force.