The Gathering

David Swanson

September 7, 14, 21 & 28

$9 | 12 - 1 PM

1st Presbyterian Church - Fellowship Hall

Speaker

Dr. David Swanson

The Rev. Dr. David D. Swanson is the Senior Pastor and Head of Staff at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. His congregation is among the largest in the Presbyterian Church, USA, and he is an active leader in the denomination's renewal movement. He serves on the board of Montreat College, a Presbyterian school in Montreat, NC.

Dr. Swanson's preparation for ministry began through the nurture and ministry of his home church in Dallas, TX: Highland Park Presbyterian. He received his undergraduate degree in business from Southern Methodist University, and prior to attending seminary, worked for several years in public relations for a computer software firm in the Dallas area.

He met and married his wife, Leigh, also a Dallas native, and together they moved to Austin where Dr. Swanson completed his Master of Divinity studies at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Upon his graduation and ordination, he was called to his first pastorate as Associate for Youth and Families at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church. Under the ministry of Dr. William E. Dudley, the Signal Mountain Church grew considerably and Dr. Swanson moved into the area of discipleship and outreach. It was also during this time that Dr. Swanson received his Doctor of Ministry degree in Christian Leadership form Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. All three of the Swanson children were born on Signal Mountain: John David, Alex, and Kaylee.

Dr. Swanson's second pastorate was at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Ft. Myers, FL where he served as Senior Pastor and Head of Staff. During his five year ministry, the church welcomed more than 850 new members. It was also during this time that he served as the Director of the Christian Life Conference, a family renewal conference held annually in the summertime at Montreat, NC.

Dr. Swanson's ministry today is one marked by faithful worship, vibrant preaching, and a commitment to both discipleship and service. He has led FPCO through a visioning process that has resulted in a fresh wind of the Spirit, moving the church towards greater lay involvement, increased giving, both personally and corporately, and a deeper hunger to know the purpose and plan of God. It is his hope to seek, share and serve the Lord – all to the glory of God.