Our Extended Family

Our congregation is blessed with roots in several types of churches.  Our primary identity is as a rainbow of people united in Christ.  But as family reunions are enriching and help us understand our background, so it’s good to hear from our extended denominational family who form a support system.  

Highlights from this year’s gathering last month in Willingboro:  American Baptist Churches of NJ staff features two pastor / leaders, Miriam Mendez and Eric Hoheisel (both of whom have spoken here several times).  Our staff includes Hilary & Barbara Gierman, managers at the Lebanon Camp and Conference Center, as well as regional pastors / coordinators of Latino Ministries (supporting 36 Spanish and Portuguese speaking congregations), Haitian Ministries (with 16 affiliated churches), and “Communities in Action” (supporting local community outreaches).

Since 2020, the staff has hosted monthly on-line prayer gatherings, and an annual retreat for pastors. 75 woman got together in Harvey Cedars for a Women’s Ministries annual conference for fellowship, renewal and service.

As with us, there were moments for business, including approval of a fully detailed budget of $1,200,000 for the coming year.  We are among only a quarter of the state’s ABC churches to be financially supportive of our region’s ministry and mission efforts.

Camp Lebanon reported becoming an increasingly year-round place for church retreats, youth retreats, baptisms, pastoral renewal, service projects and women’s ministry, with 4,000 participants so far this year.  Facility maintenance and upgrades are on-going: repaving paths, adding air-conditioning to cabins, refinishing floors and adding siding and insulation.

One of the most hopeful moments of each annual session is hearing from the “Emerging Scholars,” those receiving support in their education.  A few quotes:

As I continue my studies in aerospace engineering, I place God as the sole guiding light to grow in my relationship with Him everyday and share the Gospel with those that He places in my path. (Bryan, Purdue U).

More than anything, I’ve come to realize that my education is bigger than just a degree or a future career.  It is part of God’s shaping me, stretching me, and preparing me to serve others.  And that is what makes it part of my calling.  (Raquel, Raritan Valley Community College)