Hello, my name is Scott Swanson. I had the privilege of joining the team at The Orchard in July 2009 as Pastor of Family Ministries. I have spent many years working with youth both inside and outside the church, including a long history of coaching, especially wrestling. I graduated from Judson College with a business degree focused in management and leadership. After almost 17 years working in the business world, I followed the call I had long felt and entered ministry full time. Later, I received my Master's of Divinity from Bethel Seminary. As of April 1, 2018, Easter Sunday, I had the joy of transitioning into the role of senior pastor at The Orchard. I am excited about the work that God is doing at The Orchard, and am eager to help people develop spiritually, integrating their faith into all aspects of their daily lives. It is my desire that as people come to The Orchard they experience authentic worship of God, hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ clearly presented, are challenged and encouraged by the Word of God and connect with others who are also seeking to love God and love others.

I have a passion for missions and a special place in my heart for Haiti. I am blessed to serve as Vice-President on the U.S. board for Real Love Ministries International, a Haitian ministry based in Lafito, Haiti which has an orphanage, a school, and a soon to be open medical clinic. 

I have been married to my wife, Dorene, since 1990. We began dating as freshmen at Northern Illinois University where Dorene finished her undergraduate work. She also has received a masters from George Washington University. I am so thankful for her support and encouragement. She is a constant blessing to me. We have two grown sons, Stuart and Spencer, and a daughter, Gina. Each is wonderful in his and her own way. And each is loved dearly.  

I enjoy working on cars, especially the 1976 Jeep CJ7 I am building. I also enjoys playing guitar (although I play very basically). I enjoy listening to Rich Mullins, Needtobreathe, and Todd Agnew among many others.

My favorite Bible verses are:

John 14:6.  "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me'."

Micah 6:8.  "He has told you. O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"

I would love to have you join us on a Sunday as we worship our God; whether you have been a follower of Jesus for many years, are a new believer, or someone who is searching and seeking answers.