Don Smarto

Pastor Don, as he prefers to be called, has been at Southside Baptist Church since June 2021. He brings a wealth of ministry experience to his church leadership. Most notably, he traveled extensively with evangelist Billy Graham for 16 years, from 1980 – 1997.

From observing Dr. Graham’s preaching style, Pastor Don brings the gospel to a level that is both plain and practical. As Pastor Don says, “My number one goal is for everyone to focus on Jesus Christ and grow in their faith. Programs are good, but spiritual health and vitality come first.”

He is the author of fifteen widely read books. Pastor Don has preached in over 300 churches nationwide and was a featured speaker at a White House conference in 2007.

In media, he has produced fifty documentary films related to prison ministry and has hosted a Christian Talk Radio Show in Dallas / Fort Worth (KDKR 91.3 FM) since 2004. His radio guests have included Charles Stanley, Henry Blackaby, Josh McDowell, Joni Erickson Tada, Roger Staubach, and Elizabeth Elliot.

With academic achievements in Music, Philosophy, Theology, and Psychology, Pastor Don uses his knowledge and training to serve God. He was a college professor at Wheaton College for 16 years, teaching Sociology courses, and continues to be a guest lecturer at Dallas Baptist University and Dallas Theological Seminary.

Pastor Don is also an award-winning photographer and Master Judge at both the Fort Worth Photography Club and the Dallas Camera Club.

He is married to Regina, a warm and loving person, and they have a son, Luke, who lives in North Carolina. Pastor Don moved to Texas in 1999 from Chicago. He remains an avid Chicago Cubs fan. He feels blessed to serve as Pastor at Southside Baptist Church and warmly welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds.