Bishop Hugh Daniel Smith

Bishop Hugh Daniel Smith is a visionary leader, apostolic voice, advocate for redemptive justice, global strategist, and multi-dimensional thinker known for his dynamic preaching, prophetic insight, and unique ability to make spiritual truth relevant to the times. His life’s mission is to advance the Kingdom of God by restoring and protecting the divine rights, dignity, and purpose of people.

As Founder and Lead Apostle of Embassy Covenant Church International, Bishop Smith has built a multi-generational apostolic house extending through campuses and ministry expressions across multiple states. His ministry combines spiritual depth with practical strategy, empowering people to lead effectively, build sustainably, and carry Kingdom principles into every sphere of life. For more than three decades, his leadership has been marked by a commitment to developing people, strengthening families, cultivating leaders, and building institutions capable of producing lasting spiritual and community impact.

That commitment extends beyond the local church. Bishop Smith is the founder of Embassy Community Development Corporation, which advances dignified living, economic development, household stability, and stronger communities. In 2026, ECDC expanded its work through the acquisition of Hope Shelters, a Pontiac-based homeless shelter and housing-support organization serving individuals and families experiencing housing instability. The acquisition represents a significant expansion of Embassy’s capacity to address practical needs while creating pathways toward greater stability and dignity.

Bishop Smith’s work in justice and human development is equally central to his leadership. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Justice Network, a nonprofit organization focused on redemptive approaches to justice. Trained in civil mediation and restorative justice practices, he also founded the Redemptive Justice Practice to support individuals and families in spiritual growth, reconciliation, and personal development. His record of public service includes previously serving as a chaplain with the Detroit Police Department and appointment in 2021 to the National Department of Homeland Security Faith-Based Security Advisory Council.

A committed spiritual father, teacher, and developer of leaders, Bishop Smith has advised and equipped leaders across ministry, civic, and community sectors. He is the founder of Diamond Leadership Academy and is known for translating prophetic vision into practical strategy that helps people move from revelation to responsible action.

Bishop Smith holds a Doctor of Theology degree and a Doctor of Divinity degree. He is the author of numerous articles and books, including No Want, No Fear: Discovering Rest in Christ, Co-Ruling With Christ: Practical Tools for Kingdom Dominion, and Higher Authority: Operate in the Supernatural Power of God and Expose Hell’s Plot to Distort Humanity. In 2014, he was inducted into the Battle Creek Central High School Hall of Fame.

Bishop Hugh Smith is the son of Hugh Smith, Sr. and Georgia L. Howard. He and his wife, Pastor Letha Smith, have served together in ministry for more than three decades and are the proud parents of Krystian Smith; Bethany (Troy); and Joshlyn Edwards (Amir); and grandparents to Israel, Andrew, Noah, Nova Sage, and Amir II. Bishop Smith enjoys astronomy and sports.