Bishop Horace E. Smith, M.D., is a respected faith leader, physician, and public servant whose life’s work sits at the intersection of faith, medicine, and community leadership.

Bishop Smith is the Senior Pastor of Apostolic Faith Church in Chicago, a large and influential congregation known for its strong community engagement and outreach. He has also held significant leadership roles within the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, including serving as Presiding Bishop.

Dr. Smith currently serves as Board President of the Chicago Board of Health, a citizen advisory board that works in partnership with the Chicago Department of Public Health to help guide public health policy and address key health issues impacting the City of Chicago.

Bishop Smith recently retired after more than 45 years of service as a pediatric hematologist and oncologist at Lurie Children’s Hospital, where he faithfully cared for children and families and offered steady medical leadership in complex clinical settings. His medical expertise is matched by his deep commitment to health equity, prevention, and community-centered care.

A native of Chicago, Bishop Smith earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Chicago State University and his medical degree from the University of Illinois Medical Center, followed by specialized training in pediatrics and hematology/oncology.

His civic service extends beyond healthcare and faith leadership. Bishop Smith has served on numerous boards, including the Wabash YMCA, The Family Institute at Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago Cancer Research Center’s advisory board, reflecting his longstanding commitment to strengthening institutions that serve families and communities.

Bishop Horace E. Smith is widely respected for his ability to bridge issues of faith with clinical insight, public health strategy, and compassionate leadership.

Bishop Smith has been faithfully and happily married to Susan Davenport Smith since 1976. They met at the University of Illinois, where Susan graduated with a B.S. in Pharmacy. They have three beautiful daughters: Lauren Elrod, Rachel Horton, and Emily Green, along with their sons-in-law Brian Elrod, Courtney Horton, Patrick Green, and seven grandchildren.