Nathaniel Troy Smith II, affectionately known as Pastor Nate, is a passionate leader devoted to guiding others toward spiritual growth and purpose. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he now calls Illinois home, where he serves as the Lead Pastor of The Table in Joliet. With over 15 years of ministry experience, Pastor Nate is driven by a love for Biblical application, marriage preparation, Christian discipleship, youth sports coaching, and community engagement.

Before stepping into full-time ministry, Nate built a successful career in Business Intelligence and IT consulting, leveraging his background in Information Systems to develop innovative strategies. Today, he brings that same vision to shepherding his congregation and leading his staff with wisdom and purpose. He believes that authentic relationships are at the heart of discipleship, striving to see people the way God sees them—with grace, love, and limitless potential.

When Nate talks about his wife, Victoria, he often points to Proverbs 31, recognizing the blessing she is in his life. Victoria, a talented Product Owner for a tech company on the East Coast, is his unwavering partner and greatest gift. Together, they nurture a loving family, raising three wonderful children: Audrey, Nate III, and Elijah. A devoted husband and father, Nate is also a Cleveland sports enthusiast, a proud Ohio State fan, and a natural leader within his community.

His favorite quote reflects his faith-driven perspective:
“Your story is not finished. Each day is a fresh portion of God’s grace. It’s up to us to do something with it.”