Dr. Whitney Bayer, associate pastor, is responsible for the care needs of the congregation. Working closely with the Board of Deacons she guides others along their own faith journey with compassion, sincerity, and authenticity.

Whitney finds immense joy in the relationships that are formed through the work of ministry. She treasures time spent in community together; learning, growing, and supporting one another. A faith journey, although unique and individual to each person, is not meant to be ventured upon alone, she believes, thus she is grateful for all opportunities to journey together.

Whitney is co-moderator of the Ministry Resource Committee with the Charlotte Presbytery and a member of the Presbytery Council.

Prior to serving as associate pastor at SMPC, Whitney served as associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in New Bern, NC, and as associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Salisbury, NC.

Originally from High Point, NC, Whitney received a Bachelor of Arts in religious studies from Lees McRae College, a Master of Divinity from Union Presbyterian Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from Union Presbyterian Seminary.

She and her husband, Daniel, have children, Adeline and Oliver, and a golden retriever, Bayleigh. In her free time, Whitney loves to spend time with family, read a good book and enjoy time outside.