BRYN MAWR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
MINISTRIES GUIDE
A guide to everything you need to know about the church and its ministries.
Dear BMPC Friends,
Welcome
I love the Apostle Paul’s description of the church as the body of Christ because the image brings to mind a living, breathing, moving, interdependent human being made in the image of God. It is impossible to capture the essence of our vibrant congregational life in any one gathering—whether it is worship, a Christian education class or Bible study, a service project, an intergenerational celebration, a shared meal, or a meeting. Yet, through all these activities, we can experience God's love, grace, holiness, forgiveness and closeness, revealed to us in Jesus Christ.
Our life together as a community of believers is centered in worship, Christian education, and nurture, so that we may be strengthened to serve as God’s church in the world. By turning these pages and catching a glimpse of our diverse offerings and opportunities, you will see how gifted our community of faith is with deep commitments, various callings, and special blessings. Moreover, I hope you will find ways to further engage in the ministry and mission of the church.
Studies of healthy congregations show that people who attend a church are looking for a sense of welcome and belonging, as well as a place where their gifts and talents can be used for the glory of God. This resource is intended to help you find your place of belonging and call to service so that whenever we gather, we embody the church God is calling us to be together.
Grace and Peace,
Agnes W. Norfleet Pastor
Mission Statement
This statement of purpose was adopted by BMPC’s Session in March 1997:
We are a community of faith, challenged, strengthened and transformed by the God who is revealed to us in Christ.
We welcome all who would follow Christ.
We prefer truth to complacency.
Membership
We strive to connect faith and life.
We serve and leaven the church, community, and wider world through compassionate and empowering ministries.
BMPC’s Congregational Life Council works to share hospitality, enjoy fellowship, welcome newcomers, and increase participation. As we extend the hand of friendship, we sponsor events where we can celebrate together as a community of faith, and try to “fill the gaps” for members who may need a connecting point.
As a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), we welcome all who would follow Christ to become part of the membership and ministry of our church. Called to embody Jesus’ hospitality, we are committed to the truth that all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, orientation, economic status, physical and mental abilities, political affiliation, or citizenship, are welcome. We are more fully God’s people when we recognize the gift of our diversity. We would love for you to join us!
New members join our church by profession of faith, reaffirmation of faith, or letter of transfer from another church. Those who have never been baptized may be baptized as part of a worship service when received into membership. Prior to that service, our Session greets and receives new members and their families at a special breakfast meeting (usually on the first or second Sunday of October, December, March, and June).
To help newcomers become acquainted with our community and our sense of Christian ministry, we offer a “Discover BMPC” class leading up to new member Sundays. Inquirers are welcome, and your questions are encouraged. We look forward to getting to know you as a member of our church family!
Campus & History
HOW WE STARTED
BMPC was organized by 13 women and three men in 1873 when our land adjacent to the Bryn Mawr Hotel (now The Baldwin School) was purchased from the Pennsylvania Railroad. Our first building was a modest, green-stone Chapel on the site of our current Sanctuary. Our second building, a brownstone church at the site of our current Chapel, was completed in 1886 and seated 500.
OUR VISION
The vision of our congregation was apparent in 1927 when the present Sanctuary was built to seat 1,400— double the size of the congregation of that time. According to the report of the New Church Building Committee, the Sanctuary was built to “conform to the Gothic tradition, suited to the academic atmosphere of Bryn Mawr.” The old brownstone church stood next to the new Sanctuary until 1940, when its foundation and three walls became the framework of our Chapel. Three treasured Tiffany windows from the brownstone church enhance the Chapel’s north section, which follows the lines of the Old Sunday School building built in 1894.
MISSION & OUTREACH
Our congregation has been committed to mission and outreach since the late 1800s when BMPC became the first Presbyterian church in America to maintain its own foreign missionaries. Among them was Dr. William Wanless, who established a hospital in Miraj, India, that still exists today. Our commitment to the city and churches of Philadelphia was formalized with an Urban-Suburban Partnership in 1998 — the year of our 125th anniversary — and many of our current outreach efforts support Presbytery of Philadelphia ministries.
CONVERSE HOUSE
Converse House was built in 1911 as the manse for our third pastor, the Rev. Dr. Andrew Mutch, who came from Scotland with his family. This building
was our senior pastor’s home until 1958. It then housed our church offices until 1990, when our Ministries Center was completed, incorporating a gym and the Activities Building constructed in the 1960s. Our Fine Arts, Parish Nurse, and Social Worker offices, church library and parlor, and The Middleton Center for Pastoral Care and Counseling are located in Converse House today.
EDUCATION BUILDING & MINISTRIES CENTER
Our Education Building, built in 1931 on the east end of our campus, provides space for hundreds of children for Sunday School. The Education Building is also the home of the Weekday School Preschool and our tutoring program, which pairs suburban youth and North Philadelphia elementary school children. The Ministries Center on the west side of our Sanctuary is open seven days a week as a place for youth and adults to plan activities, learn about faith, enjoy fellowship, and share resources through service to others.
MUSIC & FINE ARTS
In the 1970s, our first full-time Director of Music and Fine Arts was hired, and an expanded program of music, art, and drama took shape. Our tradition of excellence in worship music continues through our internationally recognized Sanctuary Choir and our choirs for children and youth, handbell choir, and concerts. Changing art exhibits enrich our lives and express our faith.
CONTINUING FORWARD
BMPC continues to be a place that brings people together in the pursuit of mutual understanding, leading us away from ourselves and into the mainstream of the Word of God. Today, with renovated buildings, a completed atrium connecteing the Sanctuary and the Ministries Center, a new organ, carillon, and church spire, we look forward to vibrant Christian ministry in the 21st century.
Worship
Worship is at the heart of what we do at BMPC. As we come together as a community of faith, we put all else aside to glorify God. Our beautiful Sanctuary is filled with glorious stained glass windows, a magnificent pipe organ, the music of choirs, and the reassuring words of Scripture and prayer. Whether you join us for 10:00 a.m. worship there or in the intimacy of our Chapel at 8:00 a.m., it is our hope that you will experience God’s presence.
All who place their trust in Jesus Christ are welcome to take communion at BMPC. The sacrament is an opportunity to renew the vows taken at baptism and our commitment to love and serve God, one another, and our neighbors in the world.
Communion is offered each Sunday at 8:00 a.m. worship and on at least eight Sundays a year in 10:00 a.m. worship.
Our lay-led Worship Committee serves as a forum for input and feedback to pastoral and Fine Arts staff to ensure that our worship opportunities meet the needs of our congregation. The Committee also provides logistical support for our services through volunteer ushering, parking, sound system operation, and communion preparation.
For those unable to attend services in person, the 10:00 a.m. worship service is livestreamed at www.bmpc.org/livestream. Audio and video recordings of the 10:00 a.m. service are posted on our website.
Typical Sunday Morning Schedule
We hope you’ll join us regularly on Sunday mornings when we set aside time to worship God and gain perspective as Christians in today’s world. Take advantage of our classes for all ages and join us for fellowship and refreshments in the Ministries Center Gymnasium. Overflow parking is available across the street behind Harcum College.
Most Sundays, September through May
CHILDCARE (INFANT - AGE 5)
7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
WORSHIP IN THE CHAPEL
A service with weekly communion.
8:00 a.m.
8:45 a.m.
ART @ 9 (PRE K - GRADE 5)
Education Building
8:45 a.m.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Ages 2 to PreK in the Education Building Grades 6 - 12 in the Gymnasium.
After the Children’s Moment during Worship, Grades K - 5 go to Education Building
10:00 a.m.
Education Building
ADULT CLASSES
Most Sundays. See our worship bulletin for details.
10:15 a.m.
ADULT CLASSES
Most Sundays. See our worship bulletin for details.
11:00 a.m.
WORSHIP IN THE SANCTUARY
Traditional service and hymns with the voices of our choirs and a children’s message. Grades K - 5 begin in the Sanctuary.
ATRIUM CAFE
Join us for fellowship and refreshments in the Atrium.
Family Fellowship in Education Building.
11:15 a.m.
Ministries Overview
Our BMPC campus is busy seven days a week with opportunities for enrichment, fellowship, support, and service to others. We invite you to participate according to your interests. Weekday childcare is often available with three days advance notice to childcare@bmpc.org.
Our programs and activities are initiated and coordinated by church councils and committees that report to and are directed by our Session and Board of Deacons. As described in the following pages, each of these planning groups focuses on a ministry area, is comprised of committed volunteers, and meets regularly from September to May.
If you have questions or would like more information, call the church office at 610-525-2821, and we will be happy to assist you.
Adult Education
Our Adult Education opportunities are designed to:
Strengthen our understanding of worship, scripture, theology, our faith tradition, and Presbyterian heritage.
Challenge our understanding of God’s world and our place in it, and urge us to see life from different perspectives.
Heal and transform our hearts and minds so that we may serve God and others with greater conviction and effectiveness.
By offering Sunday classes at 8:45 and 11:15 a.m., we hope to make it easy for everyone to participate in learning, worship, and fellowship on Sunday mornings. We offer space and time for you to breathe deeply, think creatively, and reconnect with what is deepest in your heart as we gather for reflection, prayer, study, and conversation. Talented church members, guest academics, local experts, pastors, and visiting mission partners are among those who lead our classes.
InadditiontoSundayclasses,weoffer:
• Bible studies/book discussions
• Classes following some of our Wednesday Night Dinners
• A Theologian-in-Residence program
• Opportunities to enrich your experience of Advent and Lent
We encourage you to visit the Converse House Library in its new location in the Fullerton Room, which carries an excellent selection of spiritual and theological books, class texts, bibles, hymnals, and books for children. You can also search the catalog online: https://www.libib.com/u/converselibrary
Caring Ministries
The Caring Ministries Team - the Board of Deacons, Parish Nurse, Social Worker, Middleton Counseling Center, and the pastoral team - seek to extend Jesus’ invitation to live life "(w)holy." This is done at the intersection of intentional living, self-care, compassion, community, practicing presence, and spiritual growth.
Jesus conveys this invitation in Scripture, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30). The (w)holy life Jesus desires for everyone includes physical health, but it also encompasses our emotional, relational, spiritual, and communal health. In short, the work of Caring Ministries is to care for you at every point in your life and to help you care for your own neighbor.
DEACONS
The ministry of Deacons focuses on care and compassion, particularly for those who are sick, homebound, and bereaved. Deacons help serve communion, administer the Helping Hands program, and provide other ministries, including extending hospitality at Memorial Services.
SOCIAL WORKER AND PARISH NURSE
Our parish nurse and social worker are social service and medical advocates who assess the needs of the congregation and approach health and healing holistically. They practice caring presence through visitation and delivery of prayer shawls. They also build relationships in the congregation, link individuals to community resources, and develop and host programs that integrate faith and health.
THE MIDDLETON COUNSELING CENTER
Through a generous endowment from the John Middleton Company in memory of Herbert H. Middleton, Jr., The Middleton Counseling Center opened in 1999 to care for the spiritual, emotional, and relational needs of both our church and the wider Main Line community. The Middleton Counseling Center invites people from all backgrounds, beliefs and faiths to enhance the connections between body, mind and spirit.
Through therapy, educational programs, labyrinth walks, spiritual direction, and support groups, The Middleton Counseling Center helps individuals recognize their strengths and develop skills needed to improve the quality and fullness of their lives. Our professional services are provided on a sliding scale with a spirit of hospitality. All communications, conversations, and services provided by The Middleton Counseling Center are confidential.
Children & Family Ministry
Children and Family Ministries Council supports the spiritual formation of children, from birth to Grade 5, through Christian education in Sunday School and other activities. We partner with families and the larger faith community to nurture the faith of all our children.
Sunday School is offered for all children beginning at two years of age. Our curriculum is enriched by worship, biblical storytelling, service, and the arts. This integrated curriculum builds each year, helping students develop a strong sense of worship, a knowledge of scripture, and a personal sense of vocation. Care is taken to ensure that our program meets the needs of children at each developmental stage.
We value children as part of our church community and welcome children in worship. Kindergarten through grade 5 begin Sunday worship with their families at the 10:00 a.m. service. Following the Children’s Moment, they depart for their classrooms.
In addition to Sunday School, we offer:
Childcare
Sundays from 7:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and for most other church activities.
The Weekday School
The Weekday School—a faith-based preschool on our BMPC campus.
Powell Children's Library
Located on the main floor of the Ed Building.
Art @ 9
An art activity class for PreK–grade 5 on Sunday mornings at 8:45 a.m. during adult ed classes in the Education Building Art Room, 102.
Fellowship
Fellowship opportunities with other families on Sunday mornings after worship in the Education Building Hall. Grade specific felllowship opportunities are offered at other times throughout the year.
Annual Mission Focus
This year we are focusing on hunger related mission projects.
Vacation Bible Camp
Summer Vacation Bible Camp in June on our BMPC campus.
Sacramental Education
Sacramental Education around Baptism and Communion.
Faith Milestones
Presentation of Bibles in Grade 3 and Hymnals in Grade 5.
Special Events
Special events such as Family Fun Fridays with pizza and a movie, and family service projects.
Choir
Beginner's Choir for PreK–first grade and Children's Choir for 2nd–5th grades on Wednesdays during the school year.
THE WEEKDAY SCHOOL (PRESCHOOL)
The Weekday School is truly “A Place to Grow.” Our curriculum for preschoolers offers a unique educational experience designed to develop a love of learning, kindergarten readiness, and roots for beginning a lifelong journey in faith.
Our nurturing environment helps children discover the joy of learning as they engage in both play-based activities and hands-on lessons. Each day is filled with carefully planned, fun-filled activities designed with specific educational goals in mind. Through a theme-based curriculum rich in music and art, students are well-prepared for kindergarten with strong skills in the areas of letter recognition, handwriting, science, and math. Exciting enhancements include an Outdoor Learning Center where children can experience hands-on nature lessons, Kids Yoga, and an iPad lab in our new Learning Café.
Weekday School students also learn about the love of God. BMPC’s Associate Pastor for Children and Family Ministry nurtures the students’ spiritual growth with Bible lessons. As their faith grows, so does their connection to BMPC as their church home.
Classes are available for children ages two years and seven months through 5, with full day programs until 2:00 p.m.
Mission
OUTREACH
Our church’s outreach is offered in response to God’s grace and Christ’s commandment to love one another. Under the oversight of our Outreach Committee, we provide grants that have assisted local ministries, including Broad Street Ministry, Gemma Services, Chester Eastside, Central Presbyterian Church in Norristown, Habitat for Humanity, United Community Clinic, Turning Point, WePAC, and Urban Tree Connection. Our volunteers work with ministry partners such as these, sharing their time and talents. They also provide hands-on help through our Tutoring Program, celebrating more than 50 years of pairing local youth with children from a North Philadelphia elementary school for reading and writing assistance.
HUNGER
Our Hunger Committee focuses on those who cannot obtain adequate food. We sponsor ongoing collections of non-perishable foods to stock distribution centers and soup kitchens in greater Philadelphia. We schedule Saturday casserole blitzes, bringing volunteers of all ages together in our church kitchen to fulfill an ambitious goal of 1,600 casserole donations per year. The committee hosts an annual luncheon for those who lead the fight against hunger in our region and also seeks to make a difference in worldwide hunger issues. Hunger Fund envelopes in the Sanctuary provide resources for these contributions.
PEACEMAKING
Our Peacemaking Committee informs our congregation and mobilizes its responses toward peace, both locally and in the wider world. We offer educational programs and direct action opportunities that change yearly. Our areas of focus include building interfaith understanding, advocating for peace and justice for Christians in Israel/Palestine, and preventing gun violence resulting from illegal handgun sales in our communities. Funds for our efforts come from the annual Peacemaking Offering collected each October on Worldwide Communion Sunday.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Our Environmental Justice Committee works within BMPC and our larger community to promote environmental stewardship and the caring for God’s creation. Within a Christian framework, we are driven to respond to God’s great gift by caring for our world. We offer instruction to children, youth, and adults, interact with other BMPC missions to promote environmental awareness and work with other BMPC committees to help green the church campus. Our committee founded the Main Line Interfaith Green Group, an ongoing environmental stewardship movement.
REFUGEE SUPPORT
In response to the devastating worldwide crisis of more than 21 million refugees (over half are children under 18), BMPC endeavors to promote self-sufficiency as we work with individuals, families, and our local resettlement partner agencies. Following Matthew 25: For I was a stranger and you welcomed me. The committee welcomes the stranger with housing, furnishings, food, medical, transportation, employment, education, and friendship.
WORLDWIDE MINISTRIES
Our Worldwide Ministries Committee connects BMPC with mission partners located beyond Philadelphia, working globally to support ministries of compassion, justice, and transformation. Our priorities are to support organizations that empower the people they serve and involve members of the served community, to build relationships between our church and like-minded partners around the world, and to educate our congregation on issues and ministries in which our global partners are involved.
Our programs include visits from our mission partners, who offer presentations about their life and work, and opportunities for mission travel and study to enrich our working partnerships and deepen our global relationships. Through our partners, we learn about the challenges Christians face everywhere and the amazing things that God is doing in our world.
ANTI-RACISM
Our Anti-Racism Taskforce works to engage the congregation and larger community in conversations around racism and bias, history and repair, and the potential for the building of the beloved community in our midst. Through book groups, outside speakers, community connections, and training, we are working to be actively engaged on these complex issues. Through honest conversations and thoughtful experiences, we hope to be a leader in our local community on issues of diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion.
Music & Fine Arts
Through weekly worship or in one of our many other programs, our Music and Fine Arts Ministries offer opportunities to share faith and glorify God through artistic and musical expression. The Music and Fine Arts Council meets regularly to plan and review programs, exhibits, budgets, and volunteer assistance for concerts and exhibits.
MUSIC PROGRAMS
Mission Statement
Present music and the arts to glorify God and to promote diversity, tolerance, compassion and peace in the world.
• Concerts for a Cause: Annual series highlighting our choral ensembles, organists or performing groups of international caliber with offerings supporting local charities and mission partners.
• Sanctuary Choir: Participates in 10:00 a.m. worship from September through June; audition required. Meets Thursdays, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
• Bryn Mawr Chamber Singers: A semi-professional group; audition required. Rehearses as needed on Thursdays following Sanctuary Choir.
• Singing for Life: For adults ages 55+. Meets Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:45 a.m.; no audition required. Registration fee is $75 per semester, scholarships available.
• Beginners Choir: (Grades Pre K-1); meets Wednesdays, 4:45 - 5:45 p.m.
• Children's Choir: (Grades 2-5); meets Wednesdays, 4:45 - 5:45 p.m.
• Youth Chorale: Grades 6-12; meets Wednesdays, 5:45 - 6:30 p.m.
• Carillonneurs Team: Opportunity to learn to play BMPC’s 49 bell carillon. The team provides music on Sundays and for special occasions.
FINE ARTS PROGRAMS
• A permanent art collection which began in the 1960s
• Rotating exhibits on BMPC’s architecture, stained glass, sculpture, and textiles, as well as exhibits by artists in the community and beyond.
• “Artists’ Gathering” studio space available on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center
Senior Adults
Senior Adults are a vital part of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. Their insight, experiences, and gifts strengthen our congregation and fellowship. At Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, the Senior Adult Council specifically focuses on the wisdom, talents, and needs of older adults in our congregation.
BMPC’s Senior Adult Ministry supports and nurtures spiritual enrichment and Christian fellowship by:
• Sponsoring social, educational and mission programs and events
• Identifying and addressing seniors’ needs
• Promoting community through intergenerational activities
Whether you are a new or long-time BMPC member, we invite you to join our classes, presentations, daytrips, and other opportunities to enjoy fellowship and continue your faith journeys.
GreatDecisions: An international affairs discussion group that meets the first Monday of most months, at 10:00 a.m., on Zoom.
PresbyterianWomenHorizonsBibleStudy: A monthly Bible study that meets on first Thursdays SeptemberMay, at 10:00, at the Mansion at Rosemont.
Men'sDiscussionGroup: A pastor-led Biblical and theological study group that meets on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays September-May, 10:00 a.m., at the Converse House Parlor.
ThursdayBookGroup: A pastor-led spiritual book group that meets 5-6 Thursdays in the fall and spring, 10:00 a.m., on Zoom.
TripsandSocialEvents: A wide range of day trips for intellectual and cultural growth are offered throughout the year. A social is held every spring.
Youth Ministry
BMPC’s youth ministry is an inclusive faith community that connects, engages, and equips youth to discover and live out the gospel of Jesus Christ.
SUNDAY MORNING YOUTH GATHERING
Youth are invited to attend our Sunday Morning Youth Gathering which starts in the gym and runs from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Teens are invited to build community, worship through music, and call one another to worship. After the time together, youth break into age-specific groups to dive deeper into their perspective morning lessons, learning more about the Christian story together.
CONFIRMATION
Confirmation is an exciting time in the life of our congregation’s eighth graders! After participating in the regular Youth Gathering in the gym, Confirmands meet in the Loft. Each Confirmand is paired with a Confirmation Mentor who walks alongside them through the yearlong Confirmation process, providing support and spiritual friendship. Confirmands also participate in service events and a retreat so they can grow together as a class and learn more about what it means to be a follower of Jesus.
YOUTH IN WORSHIP SUNDAYS
Youth in Worship Sundays provide youth with the opportunity to connect with the larger congregation! Youth are invited to come to worship with their families and participate in the service alongside the rest of the congregation.
STUDENT SERVE
In Student Serve, middle and high school youth actively participate in their faith formation. Each Wednesday night we delve into Scripture, listen to the ups and downs of peers, and play games together. Following the churchwide Wednesday Night Dinners, this group meets from 7:00-8:00 p.m. in the Youth Lounge.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
There are plenty of special events for our youth throughout the year — just search “youth” at bmpc.org for up-to-date information on current happenings and subscribe to our email blasts. You are also invited to follow us on Instagram @bmpc_youth for consistent information about our program!
TRIPS AND RETREATS:
• Confirmation Retreat in October
• All Youth Retreat in March
• Service Retreat in April
• Mission Trip in July
• Youth Camps in June & August
I DREAM
through this acronym we remember who it is we hope to be as the BMPC Youth Ministry
(I) INCLUSION
Guided by God’s Spirit, we welcome all youth and families, thankful for their unique identities and gifts, as we seek to provide each individual with an experience of belonging.
(D) DISCIPLESHIP
We cultivate an inquisitive community who journey together as youth grow, explore and are transformed by the love of God revealed in Jesus.
(R) RESPONSIBILITY
We build meaningful relationships that promote accountability so that through us, God can create a community that is greater than any of us by ourselves.
(E)
ENGAGEMENT
We foster friendship, fellowship and fun to create joy-filled, relevant and transformative experiences.
(A)
AFFIRMATION
We approach everyone, including ourselves, with gentleness and grace so that all will know they are celebrated, loved, and valued as children of God.
(M)
MISSION
We empower youth to share their gifts as they work for justice, freedom, and peace in the community around us and the world at large.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” -
Luke 12:34
“Stewardship is how we live out our calling as followers of Christ. Stewardship is what we do after we say that we believe.”
Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church has a long history of faithful giving. This response to God’s goodness enriches our church and community and, in turn, enriches our lives. We are called “to live in gratitude and faith, not anxiety and fear.” Acknowledging that God, revealed in Jesus Christ, came to offer us abundance, we continue to offer our gifts, responding to the needs of the world God loves.
BMPC achieves its mission in the world through the generosity of our congregation. The primary source of our financial support comes through the annual stewardship campaign. In the fall, we ask members of our congregation to make a pledge (an estimate of giving) for the upcoming year. The Joint Budget Management Committee then uses this information to create the annual budget.
The annual stewardship campaign is led by the Stewardship Committee, which is comprised of volunteer church members and is supported by the Associate Pastor for Congregational Life and Stewardship and dedicated support staff. This committee seeks to help our members understand the role of giving in relationship to our Christian faith. The committee also supports efforts to educate the congregation about the missions of our church and celebrates the impact that results from our generosity. For more information, visit www.bmpc.org/giving.
Men’s Ministries
We offer opportunities for men of all ages, including:
A weekly Saturday Morning Men’s Group that runs from September through mid-June at 7:00 a.m. in Converse House Parlor. All ages are invited to join for fellowship and lively discussions “beyond the water cooler” on topics of interest to men. All discussions are confidential.
A Men’s Study Group on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in Converse House Parlor. This group reads books dealing with biblical and theological study; men of all ages are invited.
Typical Congregation-Wide Activities
BMPC offers opportunities to enhance our life together as a congregation with intergenerational activities throughout the year. These include:
• Wednesday Night Dinners each week in Congregational Hall (mid-Sept. through mid-June)
• “Rally Day” festivities following 10:00 a.m. worship on the Sunday after Labor Day
• A “Blessing of the Animals” service on our front lawn in the fall
• Fall Congregational PotluckPotlucks are described as "the love language of the church." Come & share your favorite family recipe.
• “Sundae Sunday” following 10:00 a.m. worship in June
Presbyterian Women
Our Presbyterian Women (PW) group belongs to an international organization of more than 300,000 women who emphasize faith, mission, and fellowship through Bible study, service projects, and social events. All women in our church and community are welcome to join our ongoing activities. Whatever your background, you are sure to find a caring group who offer friendship and support. Our interest groups meet, study, and explore ideas in small settings; you may participate in as many as you like. Most interest groups meet from September through May.
Coffee Cup Bible Study: Pastor-led Bible study, 10:00 a.m. Wednesday mornings from September to May.
Holy Leisure: occasional Friday evening gatherings in homes of PW members.
Presbyterian Women Horizons Bible Study: a monthly Bible study that meets on the first Thursday of each month at the Mansion at Rosemont.
Y-Group: an interest group of PW that welcomes
mothers or caregivers of children of all ages with a focus on family and faith. Make new friends, share mutual support, and reach out through service projects.
Women’s Retreat. Every other year at Pendle Hill Retreat Center. Next retreat will be in the spring of 2026.
Shared Ministries
There are many opportunities within BMPC to help others. You can participate once a year, once a month, or once a week, either at the church or in the community. Here are a few ways you can serve:
• Assist at Wednesday Night Dinners
• Volunteer as a receptionist
• Support a BMPC youth as a mentor or be a college connection to our college/ student away ministry
• Tutor elementary school students
• Work with children/youth
• Knit a “prayer shawl”
• Feed the hungry at a casserole blitz
• Drive older adults to medical appointments
• Usher
• Participate in a “Day of Service”
• Join a prayer group
Specialized Ministries
PROPERTY COMMITTEE
Our Property Committee is a committee of the Board of Trustees which supports the church through stewardship of our building and landscape resources. Members of the committee offer varied skills to the church including construction project management, commercial real estate services, energy systems consulting, architectural design, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, interior design, landscape design, and project finance services. In the past five years, the committee has helped deliver, joyfully and with gratitude for generous donors, projects that include:
• Renovation of the west transept of the Sanctuary including removal and restoration of the stained glass “Pentecost” and “Lord’s Prayer” windows and rebuilding of the masonry and roof systems.
• Restoration of the church tower including replacement of the spire
• Major repairs and enhancements to the campus heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems to provide for more effective use of our spaces and better management of our energy use.
• Implementing an interior design manual to guide selection of furniture and finishes for the manses and meeting spaces.
BMPC Foundation
The BMPC Foundation encourages and receives contributions for the endowment of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. Composed of more than 30 individual funds, the Foundation provides sustained revenue to support more than 30% of our church’s annual operations. It also supports other ministries and mission commitments of the church as well as long-term and special needs. Gifts to the BMPC Foundation, however great or small, leave a rich and timeless legacy that will strengthen this congregation and the Christian community beyond our walls for years to come. Some funds include:
• The Ethel B. Foerderer Memorial Fund enables us to conduct a broad and caring ministry to the elderly, sick, and needy.
• The William Hamilton Miller Fund provides grants and scholarships to young men and women preparing themselves for ministry.
• The Ruth Anchors Fund provides assistance to people in need of food and housing.
There are funds that contribute to the preservation and updating of our physical facilities. Other funds support the Theologian-in-Residence program, Fine Arts Ministry, Youth Ministry, local outreach, and the Middleton Center for Pastoral Care and Counseling. Some funds are designated to provide grants and include:
• The Richard Shaull Fund, established as part of the mission component of BMPC’s Worship, Music, and Mission capital campaign in 2002. It provides an annual award for special mission projects consistent with the goals of our Worldwide Ministries Council which establishes relationships to help overcome causes of needs and injustices and to support empowering, transformational ministries.
• The Eugene C. Bay Fund for Urban Ministry enhances the life of residents in the inner city areas of Philadelphia and the community of Chester through grants for projects that strengthen the physical, emotional, educational and spiritual lives of children. It is awarded biannually.
The Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Foundation is a Pennsylvania corporation with a board of directors elected by the trustees of the church. A member of the Foundation Board will be pleased to address any questions you have regarding the Foundation or your contribution. For more information, visit www.bmpc.org/giving bmpc-foundation
Elected Leadership 2024-2025
SESSION
Dottie Bowen, Clerk
ELDER CLASS OF 2025
Keith Brinks
Meggin Capers
Maeve Daley-Gibson(Y)
Susan Daley-Gibson
Fred Fletcher
Eli Press (Y)
Susan Swanson
Pam Walsh+
ELDER CLASS OF 2026
Emily Cieri+
Carolyn Gerrish+
Sarah Gunther
Linda Griska +
Whitney Hoffman
Joe Parente+
Carl Reynolds
ELDER CLASS OF 2027
Bill Bosch
Dottie Bowen+
Anne Chamberlin
Elliot Dee+
Meg Holdsworth
Annie Lee+
Nancy Taylor
CLERGY
Agnes W. Norfleet
Andy Greenhow
Rebecca Kirkpatrick
Kirby Lawrence Hill
Rachel Pedersen
BOARD OF DEACONS
Kara Udicious, Moderator
DEACONS CLASS OF 2025
Nina Betrand (Y)
Gary Davis
Judy Frazier
Andy Kuntz+
Kylie Liggett (Y)
Sandie Nicholson+
Elaine Robertson
Charlotte Swenson
Anne Wendel+
DEACONS CLASS OF 2026
Angie Baturka+
Steve Burdick+
Nadine Champagne+
Stacey Fagan+
Jennie Jacobson
Kay Kerr
Rob Stoy
DEACONS CLASS OF 2027
Ted Collett+
Josh Hirt
Sharna Liggett
David Noble
Seth Pidot
Katie Quigley
Kara Udicious+
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Tobin Whamond, President
TRUSTEES CLASS OF 2025
Dave Barrickman
Andy Bees
Kirstin Engelman+
Dan Irwin
Marge Kennedy
Tobin Whamond+
TRUSTEES CLASS OF 2026
Bart Bastian
Ruth Brader
Linda Gamble+
Mike Giampetroni
Dave Hastings+
Jeff Libson
TRUSTEES CLASS OF 2027
Scott Addis
Terry Charlton
Peter Cordray+
Rob Gunther+
Dave Reiner+
Dan Sherry
+ indicates those serving a second three-year term (Y) indicates a youth serving a one-year term
BMPC Staff
To reach a pastor or staff member, please call the front desk at 610-525-2821 to be connected with them.
PASTORAL STAFF
The Rev. Dr. Agnes W. Norfleet Pastor/Head of Staff AgnesNorfleet@bmpc.org
The Rev. Andy Greenhow
Interim Associate Pastor for Youth and Their Families
AndyGreenhow@bmpc.org
Jeffrey Brillhart
The Rev. Dr. Kirby Lawrence Hill Interim Associate Pastor for Pastoral Care & Senior Adults KirbyLHill@bmpc.org
The Rev. Rachel Pedersen Associate Pastor for Children & Family Ministry RachelPedersen@bmpc.org
The Rev. Rebecca Kirkpatrick
Associate Pastor for Adult Education & Mission RebeccaKirkpatrick@bmpc.org
PROGRAM AND SUPPORT STAFF
Director of Music & Fine Arts
JeffreyBrillhart@bmpc.org
Lisa Buscaglia Director of Communications LBuscaglia@bmpc.org
Liz Ellis Director of Engagement LizEllis@bmpc.org
Tori Fisher
Tiara Harris
Administrative Coordinator for Music & Fine Arts ToriFisher@bmpc.org
Administrative Coordinator for Congregational Care and Church Administration TiaraHarris@bmpc.org
Erika Henry Childcare Coordinator Childcare@bmpc.org
Kathy La
Youth Program Coordinator & Administrative Coordinator for Stewardship & Accounts Receivable KathyLa@bmpc.org
Edward Landin Senn Assistant Director of Muisc EdwardLandinSenn@bmpc.org
Toshi Makihara Facilities Specialist TMakihara@bmpc.org
Jennifer McArthur
Administrative Coordinator for Adult Education, Mission & Congregational Life JenniferMcArthur@bmpc.org
Kristyn (Kiki) McKendrick Director of The Middleton Center KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org
Sarah Miciek Director of Finance SarahMiciek@bmpc.org
Michelle Pringle Director of Human Resources & Administration MichellePringle@bmpc.org
Homer Ramos
Andrew Reeves
Mary Richards
Superviser for Facilities & Maintenance
Facilities Specialist
Administrative Coordinator for Children and Youth Ministries & Weddings
Rich Rivera Director of Facilities & Operations
Matthew Rowe
Graphic Designer & Multimedia Specialist
AReeves@bmpc.org
AReeves@bmpc.org
MaryRichards@bmpc.org
RichRivera@bmpc.org
MRowe@bmpc.org
Cheryl Singley Administrative Coordinator for Accounts Payable CSingley@bmpc.org
Vance Thaxton
Weekday School
Kathryn West
Whom To Contact
Adult Classes/ Bible
Studies
Baptisms
BMPC eNews
Boy Scout Troop 19
Facilities Specialist
BMPC Preschool
Social Worker
JenniferMcArthur@bmpc.org Messenger
MaryRichards@bmpc.org
LBuscaglia@bmpc.org
Michael Prange, ScoutMaster19@gmail.com
Childcare childcare@bmpc.org
Children & Family Ministry
MaryRichards@bmpc.org
Music & Fine Arts
Mission & Grants
Parish Nurse
Pastoral Care
Preschool
Communications LBuscaglia@bmpc.org Senior Adult Programs
Counseling Services, Support Groups, Spiritual Direction
Facilities Use
KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org 610-525-0766
Social Worker
RichRivera@bmpc.org Tutoring Program
VanceThaxton@bmpc.org
WeekdaySchool@bmpc.org
KathrynWest@bmpc.org
LBuscaglia@bmpc.org
ToriFisher@bmpc.org
JenniferMcArthur@bmpc.org
KirbyLHill@bmpc.org
WeekdaySchool@bmpc.org
TiaraHarris@bmpc.org
KathrynWest@bmpc.org
JenniferMcArthur@bmpc.org
Fitness Classes TiaraHarris@bmpc.org Website LBuscaglia@bmpc.org
Funerals TiaraHarris@bmpc.org Weddings
Giving SarahMiciek@bmpc.org Women's Programs
Membership JenniferMcArthur@bmpc.org Youth Ministry
MaryRichards@bmpc.org
MaryRichards@bmpc.org
AndyGreenhow@bmpc.org
