New Trinity Council Members 2023

Sarah Swegle | Vice President
Where did you grow up? Bloomington, Minnesota 
Could you tell us a little about your family? John and I have been married 27 years and we have 3 children. Ben is 22 and a student at Iowa State University, Sam is 20 and also a student at Iowa State University, Analeah is 17 and a senior at MCHS.
Where do (or did) you work and/or how do you spend your time? I am a pharmacist and I work for MercyOne Long Term Care Pharmacy.  I have two side businesses as well.  I spend my free time by volunteering on the Mason City Farmers Market Board, serving on Trinity’s Council, building a columbarium for Trinity, supporting our children in their activities, and with family and friends.
What are your interests and hobbies? I enjoy reading, walking/hiking, scrapbooking and crafts, and gardening.
What do you most enjoy about serving on Council and/or being a part of Trinity? The people!

Robin Bratvold | Secretary
Where did you grow up? I grew up for the most part in Faribault, MN.
Could you tell us a little about your family? I have been married to my husband, John, for 50 years this September. We have 2 grown daughters: Jennifer lives in Minneapolis and is an Inclusion Specialist with Wayzata, MN Schools, and Lindsey lives in St Louis Park, MN and is an art teacher with Bloomington schools.  She is married to Matt Baldwin who works at  Wells Fargo in the Minneapolis area. They have blessed us two grandchildren: Willem,10, and Amelia, 8.
Where do (or did) you work and/or how do you spend your time? I worked in the banking industry and retired from Clear Lake Bank and Trust Company in 2017.  My husband taught special education in the Mason City Schools for 32 years and is also retired.  
What are your interests and hobbies? Spending time with our family is greatest!  We also like to take in nature hiking, biking and traveling.  I also like to garden, read and volunteer.
What do you most enjoy about serving on Council and/or being a part of Trinity? We joined Trinity 45 years ago and have always been made welcome and a part of the church family.  The mission of the church is in line with our views and life mission.  Trinity offers so many opportunities to grow as a member spiritually, mentally and physically!  

Randy Elsbernd | Buildings and Grounds
Where did you grow up?  On a dairy farm in Calmar, IA
Could you tell us a little about your family?  My wife, Becky, is the Parish Nurse here at Trinity. We have 3 kids, Nathan, a senior, and Britta, a sophomore, both attend Luther College in Decorah very close to where I grew up. Markus is a Senior at Mason City High School. We live on an acreage just outside of Mason City which keeps us busy when not at work or attending events.
Where do (or did) you work and/or how do you spend your time?  I work at the Mason City Fire Department as assistant deputy chief-training and fire prevention. I started out as a firefighter/paramedic in 2004. Accepting this job opportunity is what brought the family to Mason City. On most days, I enjoy the challenges the current position presents. Although it is mostly an office job, you may see me riding an ambulance or fire truck from time to time. 
What are your interests and hobbies?  Farming, beekeeping, home-grown/local foods, and anything John Deere.
What do you most enjoy about serving on Council and/or being a part of Trinity? After moving to Mason City, Becky and I church shopped. We found Trinity Lutheran Church so welcoming and inviting as if we belonged to the church already on our first visit. The fellowship, hospitality and community outreach makes it easy for one to be involved at Trinity,  playing a small part of something bigger. I was taught by my parents to volunteer, serve on committees, and help others. I also, always, have this feeling (calling) of “What more can I do?”  When I answer that call, I have experienced blessings beyond measure.