The Rev. Bryan J. Penman earned his Master of Divinity with a concentration in Metro Urban Studies from the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia (now United Lutheran Seminary) in 2012. He was called to serve as Pastor of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Conshohocken, PA, in 2013, where he faithfully ministered until his election as Bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod in 2024.

In addition to his parish work, Bishop Penman joined the synod staff in 2022 as a Director of Evangelical Mission, focusing on congregational vitality. He chaired the synod’s Vitality Team, playing a crucial role in developing and sustaining vital ministries throughout the synod.

Originally from Virginia, Bishop Penman grew up as a lifelong Lutheran at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Stafford, VA. His formative years in the Virginia Synod’s youth ministry programs inspired him to attend Lenoir-Rhyne University, an ELCA institution in Hickory, NC, where he graduated with a degree in English and Religious Studies in 2004.

Before discerning a call to ministry, Bishop Penman worked with his mother in real estate, where they built an award-winning business. Bishop Penman currently resides in Conshohocken, PA, with his devoted husband, Matt, and their adopted son.

Yvonne Curtis, director of operations
267.323.3747
ycurtis@sepa.org