The Rev. Marcia Parkinson-Harrison
Biographical Information
Current Position:
Pastor
Congregation Membership:
Resurrection Lutheran Church
Date and Year of Birth:
September 26, 1963
Date and Year of Ordination:
July 27, 1996
Previous Positions:
Marketing Researcher – Conducted data analysis and provided strategic marketing insights.
Computer Specialist – Offered technical support, software training, and troubleshooting.
Administrative and Technical Support (Temp Roles at Wall Street Firms such as J.P. Morgan Chase) – Performed office support, data entry, and IT assistance in fast-paced financial environments.
Education and Earned Degrees (with institutions and years, most recent first):
2017–2018 – Clinical Pastoral Education (Units 2, 3, 4), NYC Health + Hospitals, Queens
2014–2015 – Interim Ministry Network Training (4 Classes), Buffalo, NY
2013 – Clinical Pastoral Education (Unit 1), Robert Wood Johnson Hospital, New Jersey
1994 – Master of Divinity, New Brunswick Theological Seminary
1986 – Bachelor of Business Administration, Bernard Baruch College
List up to five (5) current or past community-related activities that would inform your
service as bishop of this synod:
These community-related activities reflect my commitment to justice, leadership development, and service, all of which will inform my approach as bishop.
1. Advocate for Food Justice and Local Resource Distribution
Collaborated with organizations like the Food Bank for New York City, Driscoll Foods, Ace Endico, and private funders to address food insecurity. Coordinated the distribution of fresh produce and essential goods, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring equitable access to resources in underserved communities.
2. Coalition Builder in Southeast Queens
Formed and maintained partnerships with civic leaders, local schools, and interfaith organizations to address critical community needs. Focused on initiatives related to youth mentorship, violence prevention, housing access, and healthcare services. Strengthened the presence of Lutheran ministry in the area while building connections that promote long-term community stability.
3. Mentor to Emerging Leaders in Ministry and Social Justice
Walked alongside individuals discerning their vocational callings in ministry, social justice, and community leadership. Supported emerging pastors, deacons, and community activists through guidance, training, and mentorship, helping them grow in both their faith and leadership skills.
4. Liaison for Police Department and Community Relations
Served as a liaison between the police department and local communities, promoting constructive dialogue and fostering mutual understanding. Focused on building trust and encouraging collaboration between law enforcement and community members to enhance public safety and address concerns.
5. Hospital Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care
Provided pastoral care as a chaplain in a local hospital, offering spiritual support to patients, families, and healthcare workers. Responded to times of crisis, illness, and grief, supporting individuals and families in navigating difficult times while collaborating with healthcare providers to offer holistic care.
What do you see as the principal challenge to this synod in the next six (6) years, and how
would you address it? (1,000 characters maximum):
The principal challenge to this synod in the next six years is sustaining and revitalizing ministry in the face of demographic shifts, declining membership, and financial instability. As congregations age and communities change, the church must adapt to new ways of reaching people and addressing community needs. I would focus on strengthening partnerships with local organizations, investing in leadership development, and exploring new models of ministry that emphasize community engagement and social justice. Additionally, I would advocate for adaptive stewardship, ensuring congregations have the resources and support needed to thrive. By fostering innovation and staying grounded in faith, we can revitalize this synod and ensure a lasting impact for future generations.
List up to five (5) current or past synod or churchwide activities that would inform your
service as bishop of this synod:
1. Urban Leaders Institute (Metro New York Synod) - Helped establish the Urban Leaders Institute to equip leaders for ministry in urban contexts. This initiative provides tools for adaptive leadership, public theology, and community-rooted engagement, fostering collaborative leadership for the church's work in diverse settings.
2. Partnering with LEAD on Ministry in Southeast Queens - Currently working with LEAD to reimagine the future of Lutheran ministry in Southeast Queens. This collaboration focuses on creating sustainable models for mission and ministry, fostering a renewed presence in an evolving urban context. Our church supports leadership development in schools, universities, and local institutions through financial and other resources, strengthening both the spiritual and community aspects of the area.
3. Committed to Leadership Development Across the Church - Mentored individuals discerning their call to ministry—pastors, deacons, and lay leaders alike. From Southeast Queens, two became pastors, one is in the candidacy process, and several others have completed the synod’s Growing in Faith program (formerly Diakonia), shaping a new generation of leaders in the church and expanding leadership beyond schools and universities.
4. Chair, Synod Racial Justice Committee- Led efforts to address systemic racism within the church and society. Built coalitions, facilitated challenging conversations, and helped shape synod policy to promote equity and justice. This experience has deepened my commitment to fighting for racial justice at all levels of ministry.
5. Member, Synod Advocacy Committee - Participated in advocacy efforts, including bringing the church’s public voice to Albany on issues such as immigration, housing, and racial equity. These experiences have equipped me to connect faith and action in the public square and ensure the church stands as a moral voice on justice issues.
Describe your leadership style. (1,000 characters maximum):
My leadership style is strategic, decisive, and grounded in faith. I lead with clarity and purpose, focusing on building effective teams, providing clear direction, and ensuring strong administration to support the mission of the church. I believe in equipping others to lead, while holding everyone accountable to our shared goals. Jesus Christ is at the core of my leadership, guiding every decision through prayer and scripture. I prioritize both efficient systems and a deep sense of spiritual purpose, ensuring that our work reflects God’s vision for God’s church. In challenging times, I provide steady leadership, relying on God’s wisdom to navigate obstacles and strengthen our resilience. My aim is to foster a synod that is both administratively strong and spiritually vibrant, where faith and action are always intertwined.
What gifts would you bring to the office of bishop of this synod? (1,000 characters
maximum):
I bring a deep commitment to justice, leadership development, and community engagement. As chair of the Anti Racism Committee, I’ve led efforts to address systemic racism and foster equity within the Church and society. My experience working with LEAD to reimagine ministry in Southeast Queens demonstrates my ability to collaborate and innovate in changing urban landscapes. I am passionate about mentoring emerging leaders, having walked alongside pastors, deacons, and lay leaders in their vocational discernment. Additionally, my work as a liaison for the police department and chaplain in a hospital has equipped me to engage with both community and institutional leaders in meaningful ways. I am committed to supporting the well-being of our people and congregations, encouraging faithful leadership, and ensuring that the church serves as a beacon of hope and justice in a world that needs it.