By Leigh Pritchett
Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist
Scott Swedenburg left a corporate job in New York to co-found a business that assists faith-based nonprofit organizations with fundraising. The 60-year-old Hoover resident has been doing that 27 years now. He also serves on the board of directors for The Alabama Baptist. Swedenburg has gone on missions trips to four different continents and holds two undergraduate degrees from Mississippi State University.
Ministry description: Greeter; member of missions committee
Church name: Dawson Memorial Baptist Church, Birmingham, in Birmingham Metro Baptist Association
Life verse: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34)
Q: Who was or is one of the most influential people in your faith life? Why?
A: My parents influenced me more than anyone else. My mom loves people and has never said a bad word about anyone. She always looked for the good in others. My mom was always suggesting young ladies for me and my three younger brothers to date in high school. We boys were very superficial and couldn’t believe some of her suggestions. It wasn’t until later I looked back and realized all the special things she saw in each of those ladies. My dad modeled for me sacrifice and service. When something extra needed to be done around our small farm or at church he would always give up the little free time he had and do whatever was needed. He never asked for thanks or recognition. He was always sacrificing for his family and church.
Q: What has God been teaching you lately?
A: What does loving others require of me? Paul says in Colossians 3:14, “And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” Then Peter says almost the same thing in 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly since love covers a multitude of sins.”
Q: If there were one thing you could tell your younger self about faith, what would it be?
A: Jesus is all you need regardless of your age. Don’t expect people, things or this world to satisfy your deepest needs.
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