Pastor Daniel X. Smith answered the call to ministry in February 2003 at New St. Matthew M.B. Church, located on the West Side of Chicago. In May 2007, he was ordained and installed as its Senior Pastor.
The 40-year-old, married father of two, lives under the tenants of discipline and a standard of excellence that guides him in his everyday dealings, from his home life to the pulpit.
His leadership begins and ends with service, service colored by the complete understanding that what one is here to do on Earth is greater than themselves. This understanding is the embodiment of Daniel X. Smith.
Joining him in the fulfillment of his life’s mission is his helpmate, soulmate and “eternal love”, Kameithia De’Shaunn Elery. The two wed August 7, 2005.
N’DIGO recently sat with Pastor Smith and discussed ministering during the Covid 19 pandemic and what challenges he had to overcome to reach his members and how effective those methods have been.
N’DIGO: Where were you born? What led you into the ministry? What age did you receive “the call?” When did you start pastoring your church?
Pastor Daniel Smith: I was born in Chicago and have been a part of ministry from birth. The church that I currently pastor has been my church home my entire 40 years of life. At the age of 23, I accepted my call to be a forerunner of Christ. With practicing the discipline of ministry, I have developed a deeper love and excitement for growth within the ministry. I began pastoring my home church of New St. Matthew in May of 2007.
Talk about your family. How supportive have they been during this pandemic?
I am a family man, husband to Kameithia and the proud father of both Emmyerie and Josiah Smith. My family has been very supportive during this pandemic. My wife has a spirit of “help” and during this season, her inspiration and outpouring of devotion to me as her husband and pastor goes beyond measure. It’s because of her that I have been able to be sustained during this time.
Did you ever imagine that you would be operating your ministry in the midst of a global pandemic?
This is a history-making moment. Never did I imagine pastoring my flock virtually. I truly miss the ensemble of the body of Christ, but I will take the necessary precautions in regard to reuniting in the near future.
Churches have closed their doors for months due to Covid 19 restrictions. If Governor Pritzker allowed churches to offer indoor services again, would you, or would you continue providing online services?
I will offer indoor services again for my membership, but I will do it in moderation. I believe in the health and development of my members. We already provide online services and that will continue, but as far as gathering again in full numbers, we will plan accordingly to protect the health of the members.
If services were to resume, would you scale services back or eliminate any services offered?
I currently only host one service. But I am leaning to only 50 participants still, following social distancing. Taking attendance to keep account of members just in case someone tests positive for Covid 19.
How would you determine church access if only a percentage of members are allowed at a time?
The percentage would be accessed through membership attendance.
I know you’re streaming your services via Facebook Live. How does it feel to do this instead of having a connection with a live audience?
It becomes a bit difficult, but you learn to adjust, especially being a Baptist preacher. We look to the participation of our members saying, “Amen, preach pastor!” But in this season, I have developed my own system of supporters in my back pocket to help push me through my preachment.
What advice would you give to encourage members who can’t be with their church during the quarantine?
One thing we must remember is that we are the church. This quarantine has not allowed us to gather in the building, but the church is on the inside of us.
To encourage my members, I tell them to stay connected through our social media platforms and also through our virtual meetings to keep in communication and fellowship with each other.
What is your favorite scripture?
Psalms 34:1-3, which read:
34:1 – I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
34:2 – My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.
34:3 – O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.
What’s your favorite thing you miss doing because of the quarantine?
I miss going to the mall for shopping and dining in restaurants.
What’s your favorite restaurant?
Steak 48 in downtown Chicago.
What’s the first thing you’re doing when God tells you it’s okay to go out and be normal?
LOL! Maybe just walk through the mall!
Follow Pastor Daniel X. Smith on Facebook and Instagram @newstmatthewmbc.
