Our Founder & Elect Lady

Our Founder & Elect Lady

Founder Pastor Dr. Walter L. Swinson was a born-again, Spirit-filled man of God who gave his life to the Lord in 1986. Pastor Swinson earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work and Masters degree in Education from Temple University, a Masters degree in Christian Counseling from the Institute of Christian Works Bible College and Seminary and a Doctorate degree in Philosophy with a concentration in Theology-Apologetics and Christian Education from International Christian University. Even while continuing his education, he worked at Temple University. He was married to Elect Lady Louise Swinson and they have four sons, Walter Swinson Jr., David, Marcus and Tyler as well as a host of spiritual children.

Pastor Swinson was officially installed as the Pastor of Living Word Church of Open Heart located in Yeadon, PA on Sunday, February 18, 2007 during the Sunday Worship Service. His assignment was to build upon the foundation that had already been laid by Bishop Robert Hanna. 

Pastor Swinson desired to do the will of the Father, to preach His uncompromised Word, and had a readiness to obey God’s instructions. Pastor Swinson not only had spiritual oversight over the church, but he managed the daily operations of the ministry. He was committed to educating not only in the pulpit, but also in the classroom.  This was evident by the creation of Christian Education Ministries, an institution that seeks to reach people with the Gospel then train and equip these individuals for ministry.


Pastor Swinson preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ with boldness and conviction. It was evident in his ministry that Pastor Swinson desired to seek and save the lost by giving the lost Jesus.  His love for God compelled him to share God's faithfulness with others.

Elect Lady Swinson is committed to completing the work that her husband started because she loves God with her WHOLE heart. She labored with her husband in the gospel and is determined to continue in what God has instructed her to do. She has a heart for the people and desires the best for the people of God. Elect Lady Swinson is our prayer warrior, our praise leader and our church Mother. She, like her husband, has dedicated her life to serving God and the people of God.