Reverend Rickey A. Smith, Sr. accepted the call to the gospel ministry in 1992 under the pastorate of Reverend Dr. Ronald Pages of Greater St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. After being in the military for many years, Reverend Smith, and family moved to Germany. Upon his third tour of duty in Germany, he was ordained by the National Baptist Association of Germany and served as Interim Pastor of New Life Baptist Church in Bamberg, Germany.  Upon completion of his tour in Germany, he returned to Frederick and was reunited with his family and made Frederick, Maryland his home. Reverend Smith served as an Assistant Minister for First Missionary Baptist Church until he was called to Zion Baptist Church in February 2010.

He and his wife, Sister Rose, are blessed with  daughter, Christina and son, Rickey II. They also have a special place in their hearts for their grandchildren.

Reverend Smith's favorite scripture is John 15:13, "There is no greater love than a man who lays down his life for a friend."