Get to know the individuals who make The Riverside Church a welcoming place of worship and service. Discover their stories, interests, and the multiple roles they play in our community and beyond. Join us on this spiritual journey and connect with the amazing people behind our beloved congregation.
Prior to leading Riverside, Rev. After seminary, Rev. Thorne spent eight years at Middle Collegiate Church in a variety of ministerial roles, concluding her service there as the Executive Minister. She completed post-graduate studies in pastoral care and counseling at The Blanton-Peale Institute and is a certified life coach and disaster chaplain.
Thorne is a healer, Presbyterian minister, and classically trained dancer who uses movement to heal bodies in the church and community. She has been a dancing theologian for over twenty years and is the originator of Embodied Pastoring. Adriene studies Somatic Abolitionism with NY Times best-selling author and renowned coach, Resmaa Menakem, and with her experience, both in church and on stage, she brings unparalleled creativity and movement to her work of anti-racist practice and culture building.
Thorne grounds her Christian practice and leadership in an appreciation for imperfection that attempts to embody robust vulnerability. She leads with an understanding that even the resurrected Christ came back in a flawed body — what hopeful news for us! Adriene believes that everyone brings gifts to the table and that we teach one another.
She is grateful for the wisdom found in collaborative leadership and delights in anyone who tries to listen well. Stepping back to step forward, Rev. Thorne has learned the tremendous power of silence and stillness for her own leadership joy. Side Gigs: Mom to an amazing human, caregiver to loving parents, writer, speaker, PTA member, event planner, ritualist.
