DR. TERRY NORRIS, PH.D

Dr. Terry Norris is the Founder and Executive Director of Emerge Ministries, a kingdom-building evangelistic organization headquartered in Beulaville, North Carolina, since 2015. Emerge is devoted to intentional missiology—strategically designed missions that equip churches, serve communities, restore biblical values, and inspire a worldview grounded in Scripture that leads to lasting spiritual and practical success.

 

Dr. Norris’s passion for ministry is deeply personal. At the age of 27, he was a convicted felon battling alcoholism and addiction to cocaine and heroin—a struggle that ultimately left him homeless. In 1986, his life was radically transformed through Christ, setting him on a path of service in both faith-based and humanitarian organizations. Today, his testimony fuels his commitment to helping others find hope, freedom, and restoration.

 

An ordained minister, Dr. Norris holds a Master’s in Christian Counseling and a Doctorate in Philosophy from Aidan University, with specialized studies in Substance Abuse and Addiction as well as in the eight major theories of human behavior. His expertise has led him to serve on multiple boards, where he has helped shape processes and procedures in addiction recovery, evangelism strategy, and humanitarian education. He is also a Certified Chaplain through the American Chaplains Association.

 

As the public voice of Emerge Ministries, Dr. Norris travels extensively, speaking on biblical relationships, cultural engagement, and the role of the church in shaping society. His ministry centers on reconciliation and restoration within the Body of Christ, with a strong emphasis on mentorship and discipleship. He believes that evangelism without follow-up creates spiritual “orphans,” whereas a threefold approach—evangelism, church connection, and discipleship—creates lasting transformation and resilient faith.

 

Dr. Norris and his wife, Judy, both born and raised in Eastern North Carolina, continue to serve side-by-side in Emerge Ministries. They treasure time with their grandchildren and enjoy the beauty of North Carolina’s coastline. Outside of ministry, Dr. Norris is passionate about motorcycles, horses, and music. A lifelong professional musician, he still performs regularly as part of Emerge Live—an eclectic group dedicated to bringing music and encouragement to underserved communities across the nation.