Rachel sensed the call of God on her before she turned 7 years old and God used her in reaching her family members and many of her peers in High school. She was actively involved in ministry at the University where she gained widespread recognition and got an award from the 'Ignite organisation' for "contribution to the fullness in Christ" because her ministry cut across denominations and she ministered the love of Christ tirelessly to the unsaved. She has a strong prophetic, intercessory and teaching ministry. Her ministry is based on the efficacy of God's Word and the power of fervent prayer.

Rachel's passion is to set the captives free and see the body of Christ empowered. Her purpose is to reconcile the lost to the Father. She desires to reach children and the youth early enough with the gospel and build a foundation in them for life. She has compassion for the oppressed, needy and upholds the family institution. She has enjoyed tremendous acts of mercy, divine interventions and provision from God and experienced His power to turn situations around. This gives her the confidence and grace to offer the same to people.

The Lord has used her as an instrument to found Shepherd's Place ministries, under which is a foundation (Stichting Shepherd's Place), Churches, Interdenominational fellowships and Shepherd's Place School of ministry.

Rachel is a graduate of Microbiology and holds a postgraduate diploma in Theology and leadership studies. She read Psychology at the Leiden University, Netherlands. She enjoys learning and teaching.

Pastor Rachel or Mama Rache as she is fondly called is married to Deacon Ted Ifeanyi Theodore (formerly Enomate) whom the Lord has used in supporting her ministry. He is an ardent teacher of the word who is also interested in reaching out to the youth and the needy.

They are blessed with two children Mayo and Fechi Jemimah.

Rachel Funke Smith Theodore is a minister of the gospel, the Pastor in charge of Shepherd's Place Churches. She received the Lord at an early age through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
About the Pastor