On December 16, 1997, Dr. David Smith announced his acceptance of the call issued him to serve as pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Des Peres, Missouri. St. Paul is a large, suburban congregation with an elementary school and is located ten minutes west of the seminary. His responsibilities at St. Paul will begin February 1, 1998.

"This was a very difficult decision," said Smith. "I have truly enjoyed my time at Concordia Seminary, as has my family. It has been a joy to serve on the seminary faculty with colleagues who share the desire to prepare the best possible pastors for the Church."

In addition to his teaching responsibilities in the department of practical theology at Concordia, Smith also serves as Dean of Student Life, Chairman of the Admissions Committee and Placement Director.

Smith became a member of the seminary faculty in January, 1990 after serving for seven years as pastor of Christ Memorial Lutheran Church in suburban St. Louis.