Pastors Dean & Leslie Swihart

Pastor Leslie Swihart is the Senior Pastor here at Real Church of Elkhart. She is a gifted teacher, who is passionate about educating people in God's word.  Pastor Leslie is a lifelong student of the Word and holds a BS degree from Liberty University of Lynchburg, Virginia. She has continued her biblical studies through Jerry Savelle Ministries and Life Christian University. She also completed a Fundamental Training Course in Biblical Counseling through Michiana Biblical Counseling Center.

Pastor Leslie married her husband, Dean Swihart, in 2024 and they provide a beautiful example of a God-centered life and marriage. She also has one son, Joshua, who is married to his wife Megan. 

Pastor Dean Swihart is the Youth & Children's Pastor here at Real Church of Elkhart and is passionate about guiding the youth in living a God-centered life. Pastor Dean is also on the worship team and holds a Bachelor's in Music Education and a Master's of Arts in Saxophone Performance from IUSB. He taught general music at the School City of Mishawaka and South Bend Community School Corporation. Notably, Dean spent 4 years as a full-time overseas missionary in Romania  -- spending time planting churches, discipling, and starting a small Bible college.