Our pastor.

Paul Smith did not take the direct route to Cumberland UMC – or anywhere else for that matter. Born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, to a United Methodist Pastor and a schoolteacher, he has called eastern North Carolina home his entire life. He graduated from Cary Senior High School, received his Associates Degree from Louisburg College and his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Campbell University. He is currently working to complete the Course of Study for Ordained Ministry at Duke University.

It has been his privilege to serve as a Pastor in the North Carolina Conference since 2007. He was appointed to Victory UMC in Fayetteville NC in 2009 and Cumberland UMC formed a connection with Victory as a two church co-operative charge in 2011. He currently serves on the Fayetteville District Team of Ministries in the area of spiritual enrichment.  He is the co founder of The Parable Studio, a Christian audio ministry. Prior to his appointment as a pastor, Paul worked as a Magistrate for the State of North Carolina serving in Wake County for fifteen years. He is also a published author and a former swordsman (I doubt you’ve ever read that in a pastor’s biography before).

Since 2003 he has been husband to Kim and stepfather to Dani and being both is a joy. Next to knowing the love of God having the love and support of his wife Kim is the best thing to happen to him.

Our history.
      Our church, as it appears now, was completed in 1973. From its humble beginnings as a campsite church about 160 years ago, Cumberland United Methodist Church has served our community. Our church has a strong history of reaching out to that community. This is a tradition we intend to keep. more...