Pastors Donald & Rhea Highsmith

My name is Donald Highsmith, Senior Pastor of Grace Fellowship Full Gospel Church.

I gave my life to the Lord during the last year of my college career. I had just finished up a productive season with my school’s football program and was nearing graduation with a degree in criminal justice. I was well-liked by peers, loved by my family and friends, and had a successful future in view, but felt broken spiritually and emotionally. Having been raised in a Christian home, I was familiar with the things of God but had no genuine relationship with Him. I tried to fill the emptiness with all sorts of things, but I was never satisfied.

I visited Grace Fellowship Church after being invited by my wife, then-girlfriend, Rhea. After visiting two services, I knew what I needed to do. I gave my life to Jesus—the One who could fill the emptiness, heal my brokenness and give me true significance in life.

I married my college sweetheart in 1997 and began a life of serving God under the tutelage of Pastor James Wood and his wonderful wife, Sharon, founders of GFC. While serving under them I earned my Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Counseling, from Liberty University, where I am currently enrolled and still pursuing my education.  In the last 23 years, I worked for the Department of Children and Families, serving first as a Youth Services Officer, then as the Associate Chaplain in a correctional facility and a psychiatric hospital. I am now running the race as Senior Pastor of GFC, along with my wife, Rhea. We have been married for 23 years and are blessed with three children: Destini, Donte’a, and Donald, whom we love and adore.

My wife and I are called by God as servants of Christ to reach our world with the gospel message. Our desire is for people to be liberated through the gospel (not just have a religious experience) and become empowered to reach their world for Jesus Christ.

We will influence, affect, and change the city of Meriden, the state of Connecticut, and New England for Jesus Christ!

We invite you to partner with us through this ministry. To find out more, please take a moment to visit the additional pages on our website. We hope to meet you in person soon. Stay Blessed!

~ Pastor Donald Highsmith