Faces of Faith: Dean Elledge

Faces of Faith is our fun summer series where we introduce you to SMPC members and friends and share how being connected at SMPC has enriched their faith lives. Enjoy getting to know SMPC member and Troop 119 Scout Master Dean Elledge! Dean is also the Advancement Chair for the Scout Apache District of Mecklenburg County Council.

Name: Dean Elledge

Family: My wife, Mary, and our son, George

Years at SMPC: 18! After visiting off and on throughout 2006, we joined in November 2006. We were seeking a welcoming congregation that was nearby so that we could become actively engaged.

How have you found connection at SMPC? We were immediately drawn in by the welcoming of the many members of SMPC. While serving in many roles throughout the years, we have expanded the number of our friendships, and it seems that there is an overflowing cup of new members to become acquainted with and share in our faith journey. Over the years, SMPC members have shared with us as we have moved through the various seasons of life. Beginning in 2007, members were present as we went through the process of adoption of George from Russia. And, now members are sharing with us the joy and trepidation as we take steps to send George off to East Carolina University this fall.

How has being involved at SMPC helped you grow your faith?  My faith has grown and expanded throughout the years, while at SMPC. While growing up in rural NC, I was not exposed to a diverse population nor religious traditions. Since taking over as Scoutmaster of Troop 119 (SMPC is the sponsor of the Scout Troop), I have been exposed to many different religions of the families that participate in the Scouting activities at SMPC. Through these interactions, I have observed that SMPC is welcoming to all those that participate in the program, no matter their faith. Truly SMPC, its congregation and the clergy and staff are welcoming to all in the community. Although, most members of the Troop are not SMPC members, the church’s outreach through this program is evident in the many lives that we touch week in and week out. As a result of these interactions and sharing my appreciation of the outdoors with the youth in the Troop, my faith has grown stronger.