"I Am RLC" is an on-going story series that, over time, will give glimpses of who we are as individuals within the community of Roseville Lutheran Church. Periodically we'll learn from members, friends, and staff about what is important to them, what draws them here, and why they are engaged with and support the RLC community.

Mike Swanson and Kelly Christensen-Swanson

What initially brought you to RLC?

We’ve been members for 15 years. The "RLC Corn Feed" was our first exposure to the church. A neighbor invited us to the celebration and we started attending services soon after.

How are you currently involved at RLC?

We have volunteered with Project Home, FMSC, and Wednesday night confirmation. Kelly was a Lenten Mentor this spring and Mike has served as a usher in the past.

How do you live out the RLC mission: Love God, Love Your Neighbor?

We believe that we share God's love with others when get involved and volunteer. It's up to each of us to make the world a better place!

What is one RLC ministry that is memorable to you?

Attending camp has a been an amazing experience for our children. We feel truly blessed to be part of a church with so many youth opportunities. Our daughter, Kailey, attended camp Hiawatha for the first time in 2013.  We were nervous to send her three hours away to an unfamiliar camp.  I remember arriving at RLC on Sunday morning and being amazed by the number of kids going to camp - two coach buses!! When she returned the following Friday, she spent the evening telling us every detail of the week, singing us songs, and looking forward to returning the following year. Her younger sister, Katelyn, couldn't wait until she was old enough to go! This will be Katelyn's fourth year attending Hiawatha and Kailey's fifth, and she will be a youth leader at camp this year. Kailey also went on the Boundary Waters trip last summer and has attended two Camp Castaway MEA breaks. Camp has given our girls the opportunity to grow closer in their faith, strengthen friendships, and make lasting memories.

What advice would you give to someone just joining RLC?

Find a way to get involved! RLC has many opportunities for all members youth though seniors.

Why do you give your donations to RLC?

In addition to supporting the vibrant, loving and inclusive work at RLC, we know a portion of our donations are going directly back to into our community to help our neighbors.

Just for fun

What is your favorite place to volunteer? Why?

Mike likes to volunteer at FMSC because it is a fun way to get to know others and help those in need.  Kelly has volunteered as a Girl Scout leader for 16 years. It has allowed Kelly to spend meaningful time with her daughters and make new friends.

What are your favorite hobbies?

Going to the cabin, road trips, attending music concerts, and volunteering.

Our cabin is just across the border outside of Osceola, WI. In 2006 we were visiting Mike's Aunt and Uncle at their cabin and noticed the cabin next door was for sale. We bought the cabin in 2007 and renovated it from 2007-2009. We love spending time at the cabin and being on the lake! It's such a beautiful area. 

Kelly has a hard time choosing her favorite road trip!  It is between a road trip to Yellowstone/Steamboat Springs/Black Hills 2015 and road trip to Toronto/Niagara Falls 2016. 

Because it’s summer and road trip season, if you could take a trip anywhere, where would you go?

We’d like to see Banff National Park in Alberta, Canda because we’ve heard it is amazing.