After many months of prayerful work, the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee, with absolute joy and unity, is privileged to present to you the candidate for the next Associate Pastor of First Presbyterian Church.
Introducing The Rev. Dr. Rachel Thompson Orfield
A Dedicated Shepherd, Passionate Leader, and Compassionate Builder of Community
The APNC is excited to introduce the Rev. Dr. Rachel Thompson Orfield as its candidate to be our Associate Pastor. Rachel brings a profound dedication to building Christ-centered community, leading with authenticity and grace. With nearly a decade of ministry service as a hospital chaplain, associate pastor, and pastor (head of staff), she consistently prioritizes relational ministry, mission-oriented service, and empowering others in their faith journeys.
Rachel’s journey into ministry began with her Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School, followed by a Doctor of Ministry from Columbia Theological Seminary. Her
early work as a Chaplain Resident at Duke University Hospital deepened her commitment to compassionate pastoral care, particularly in challenging settings. From there, she served as Associate Pastor for Youth and Young Adults at Second Presbyterian Church, Roanoke, where she led mission trips, community outreach,
and programs to inspire many to deepen their faith.
Currently, Rachel serves as Pastor and Head of Staff at Harpeth Presbyterian Church, where she has guided the congregation through a period of significant growth and change. By encouraging collaboration among leaders, over time she transformed the church’s leadership structure, creating an environment of trust and teamwork. Reflecting on this transformation, Rachel shares:
“It has been slow work—four years in the making—but the change over time has been incredible. The elders have built relationships with each other. The group is praying for each other regularly. They ask for help. They listen to each other’s thoughts. They are working together.”
This emphasis on collaboration and relationship-building is at the heart of Rachel’s leadership philosophy. She describes leadership as an act of service, one that involves nurturing individual gifts, fostering mutual support, and creating a sense of belonging. “Leadership for me is about building up those around me,” she explains.
Throughout her ministry, Rachel has shown an unwavering commitment to creating Christ-centered spaces where people feel valued and supported. In her current role, she intentionally seeks out areas of congregational burnout and disconnection. And then introduces initiatives such as unified planning calendars, session retreats, and inter-committee collaborations to promote vitality.
Rachel also recognizes the importance of adaptability and humility in ministry. When faced with the choice of leading based on her own vision or responding to her congregation’s readiness, she chose to listen. Reflecting upon on this experience, she says:
“I realized that I had two choices: I could either try to be the pastor of the church of my imagination, or I could be the pastor of the church I actually served.”
This approach has allowed Rachel to connect deeply with the communities she serves, ensuring that her ministry remains rooted in empathy and understanding. Whether leading worship, guiding strategic initiatives, or simply being present during life’s joys and challenges, Rachel strives to reflect Christ’s example of servant leadership.
As we vote to welcome the Rev. Dr. Rachel Thompson Orfield to be our Associate Pastor, we would be blessed to gain a thoughtful, compassionate, and energetic leader who seeks to foster connection, cultivate hope, and inspire faith. We look forward to discerning this exciting new chapter together as a church family.
Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC)
Amy Gillespie, chair
Jason Bell
Lisa Dugan
Brooke Lambert
Mark Roberson
Marta Ruggles
David Forney, staff resource
“If you can bring her to Charlottesville, you’d have a very happy season ahead of you.”
Anna Carter Florence
Peter Marshall Professor of Ministry,
Columbia Seminary
“I found Rachel to be enthusiastic about ministry, emotionally and spiritually equipped for effective team ministry, and motivated to make an impact with her own gifts, skills and interests. She was kind, engaged and thoughtfully prepared, and full of energy. She’s a gem!”
Jay Sanderford
Interim Associate Pastor
“After a few minutes of being with her, it felt as if
she was already a part of our church family. A lovely, comforting presence.”
Amy Gillespie
APNC Chair