The North Carolina Synod joyfully announces the appointment of the Rev. Brenda N. Henry as its new Director for Evangelical Mission (DEM), beginning January 5. Pastor Henry joins the synod staff from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, where she most recently served with Pittsburgh Lutheran United Ministries (PLUM), a cooperative ministry of ten congregations.

“Pastor Brenda brings deep faith, seasoned leadership, and a heart for God’s people,” said Bishop Emily. “We are thrilled to welcome her to this important role in our synod.”

Originally from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Pastor Henry has lived in Lansing, Michigan, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, before relocating to North Carolina. She holds a BASW (’90) and MSW (’92) from Michigan State University, as well as an MDiv (’17) with a certificate in urban ministries from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

Pastor Henry is the proud mother of two adult children, three grandchildren, and the adoptive mother of her younger sister. She enjoys reading, curating beautiful spaces, and spending quality time with family and friends.

The Director for Evangelical Mission role is a deployed position of the ELCA churchwide organization.

“As she steps into this work, I know Pastor Brenda will be a tremendous blessing to congregations across our territory,” Bishop Emily added. “Please join me in warmly welcoming her to the NC Synod!”