LORENA PARRISH

New York, New York, United States

LORENA PARRISH

New York, New York, United States

The Reverend Lorena M. Parrish, Ph.D., is Director of Ministry Studies and Asst. Professor of Theology & Practice at Andover Newton Theological School. She has served as an adjunct at Union Seminary, NYC, advisor to DMin students at New Brunswick Seminary, and provided pastoral ministry to such churches as The Riverside Church in NYC, Claryville Reformed Church, and Ft Washington Collegiate Church. A pastor, preacher, activist scholar, and community organizer, she is recognized for her expertise as a transformational leadership coach for individuals and organizations and expert in the creation of programs that foster professional, psycho-social and spiritual growth.

A former publishing executive, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Media Communications (Cum Laude) from New York University and had a successful 10-year career in publishing before enrolling in graduate study. She earned the Master of Science in Social Work at Columbia University School of Social Work (Summa Cum Laude), as well as the Master of Divinity, Master of Philosophy, and Doctor of Philosophy in Systematic Theology from Union Theological Seminary.

Dr. Parrish’s work as an activist and community organizer is impressive. She co-planned and helped to facilitate the 1998 Symposium on Race Conference and the 1996 Dangerous Intersections: Feminist Perspective on Population and the Environment held at Union Theological Seminary. She served as an international election observer in Haiti in 1997 with Witness for Peace. She was a delegate for World Council of Churches’ Decade Celebration of Churches in Solidarity with Women in Zimbabwe. She provided services to families in transitional housing as a social worker/advocate at Abyssinian Baptist Church Development Corporation. As Youth Minister at The Riverside Church, she developed effective programs which received national media attention, including Essence Magazine and TBN Television. Her work at Riverside led to her appointment as Chief Executive of Girls Incorporated of NYC, a nonprofit committed to advocating for and serving young women and girls.

Dr. Parrish is a movement builder, visionary leader, effective coach, pastor and educator, with expertise in growing people, churches, and institutions. Her experience entails serving in urban and rural settings.

Dr. Parrish is a member of several professional societies, including the American Academy of Religion and the National Assoc. of Christian Social Workers.

  • Work
    • New Brunswick Theological Seminary
  • Education
    • Ph.D., Union Theological Seminary
    • M.Phil, Union Theological Seminary
    • M.Div., Union Theological Seminary
    • M.S.S.W., Columbia University School of Social Work
    • B.S., Communications, New York University