Hi. My name is Sharon Dean-Stewart. I was raised in southern gospel music and while growing up, traveled all over the United States singing with my family. I began by singing back-up vocals and playing the bass guitar. I then moved into lead vocals and eventually, into my greatest joy, writing songs as the Lord gives. The Lord has also allowed me to serve eight years in youth pastor positions, which I found very rewarding. I also have served as choir director, bus ministry director and now, as co-pastor of Soul's Harbor Church in Evarts, KY. I welcome opportunities to sing in other settings as well; such as festivals, weddings and reunions. My life has been full of ministry service and I hope it always will be. It is my heart's desire to encourage and strengthen God's people all over the world.
Inspiration
I know that the songs that God gives to me come straight from His presence. I've never been able to just sit down and "come up with" a song. My songs are real to me. I've lived every one of them first hand. I'm living proof that "Out of the Ashes", which is my title song, you'll walk away.
My inspiration for this particular song came from the news footage of 9-11. I saw the planes hit the twin towers and heard the statements from people who had survived the attack. I knew right then that I didn't have to "die in the rubble" of my situation. God told me even if all you have left is ashes, He gives beauty for ashes.
The Lord has brought me through so much. I just sing my testimony.
Recent Honors
My most recent privilege was to go to Florida and attend Paula White's "Satisfied Women's Retreat." While there, I entered the talent competition and was thrilled to win first place! It was amazing! I got to sing to approximately 2,000 people from all over the world. Who would have thought that a southern gospel singer from Harlan County, KY would be used by God to minister to women from New York City to South Africa. I will forever be grateful.
Family
I am married to a wonderful man who works tirelessly beside me in the ministry. He does some singing and also manages the music, sound and set up of all of our equipment. Not to mention, he drives us all over the country for our singing appointments. He is also a great dad to our seven children.
We are raising our children in the ministry and now, they work in an expressive worship team. They are also becoming singers, musicians and songwriters in their own right.
Vision
Doing what God has called me to do is my greatest joy. I feel the world, as well as the church, needs a word in due season fitly spoken.
We, as a family, are ready for whatever God wants next. We are hoping to always be a blessing to someone -- anyone or anywhere for the rest of our lives.
Audio Clips 
