Referring to herself as a “prenatal Presbyterian,” the Rev. Dr. Agnes W. Norfleet, (who prefers to simply be called Agnes) grew up on the campus of Union Seminary where her father, an ordained minister, served as business manager, and her mother, a trained Christian educator, wrote children’s books and church school curriculum. A graduate of Davidson College, and Union Presbyterian Seminary, she earned a D. Min. in Bible and Preaching from Columbia Theological Seminary.

Ordained in 1987, she has previously served as Associate Pastor for Community Ministry at Central Presbyterian, Atlanta;  Pastor of North Decatur Presbyterian Church in Decatur, Ga., from 1992-2005, and Pastor of Shandon Presbyterian Church in Columbia, SC, from 2005-2012.

While preaching and administration are her primary roles at BMPC, she has a special interest in outreach and mission, and Christian education for all ages. A recognized preacher who seeks to proclaim the gospel with creativity and relevance, Agnes is also an accomplished teacher who engages with Biblical scholars and theologians, having 30 years of experience of journeying with others through joyful and difficult seasons of life.

She serves the wider Presbyterian Church (USA) as a Trustee of Union Presbyterian Seminary, is an associate editor of “Journal for Preachers,” a frequent guest preacher for denominational conferences, and is the author of numerous articles and published sermons. Agnes’ family includes her husband, Larry Arney, an architect who currently works with Project HOME, a Philadelphia non-profit organization working to alleviate homelessness; and two sons: James and Winston.

Agnes began her ministry with us in February 2013.