Compassionate Christian Caring
Hopewell Presbyterian Church (on the "point" in Hopewell borough) has partnered with Montgomery Ministries (on route 206 just north of 518) to offer Stephen Ministers to people who are feeling challenged, lonely or grieving. Stephen Ministers have received six months of rigorous training to help them learn how to care for others in a way that is friendly, listening-based and confidential. Our Stephen Ministers have been caring for people for over five years and more than half of them have worked with people who are not church members. Through this ministry we are pleased that we can meet hurting people where they are, echoing the compassion of Jesus.
Stephen Ministers will be of service to any of us who at one time or another need the care of another person, a Christian friend. These needs include but are not limited to . . .
• Hospitalization
• Spiritual crisis
• Separation or divorce
• Terminal illness
• Death of a loved one
• Loss of a job
• Caring for aging parents
Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry: those receiving care can be sure that their identity and what goes on in the caring relationship will remain private. If you, or someone you know would benefit from having a Stephen Minister, please call 609-466-0758 or e-mail StephenMinistry@hopewellpres.org.
Hopewell Presbyterian Church worships at 10:30 AM on Sunday mornings in our historic sanctuary at the intersection of West Broad St and Louellen St., Hopewell, NJ 08525, 609-466-0758. We have a blended worship style with both praise band and traditional hymns. Come celebrate the goodness of God with us! You can learn more at www.hopewellpres.org. We have many Bible studies, small groups and educational programs for children, youth and adults.
Montgomery Ministries is a small Christian community that meets in a non-traditional church setting. We call it a "house church" in an office. We have a heart for people who are struggling with life's reality and who are feeling isolated. We meet Sunday at 9:30 for worship followed by a meal and fellowship. These take place in the sanctuary and church office at 1377 Route 206, Skillman, NJ 08558, 609-921-0006. You can learn more at www.montgomery-ministries.org. We offer a Christian Twelve-Step program and Bible Study.
"Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)
Enchanted Evening At Congregation Kehilat Shalom
It was indeed an Enchanted Evening on March 13 as members and guests of Congregation Kehilat Shalom enjoyed tasty hors d’oeuvres, desserts and beverages while learning the rules of several casino games and bidding on great auction prizes. Among the prizes were a plane ride with lunch to Nantucket, a Pocono vacation and premium wines. A lucky raffle winner also carted home a 32-inch high definition flat screen television.
Congregation Kehilat Shalom, located at 253 Belle Mead–Griggstown Road in Belle Mead, is a Reconstructionist synagogue. CKS is a warm and welcoming community dedicated to serving the spiritual, educational, cultural, and social needs of a diverse congregation. We maintain a unique, vibrant and visible Jewish presence in the greater Montgomery–Hillsborough-Princeton area. For more information, call the office at 908-359-0420 or e-mail robin@ksnj.org.
Imagine a Hebrew School where kids don't want to miss a day!
Chabad Hebrew school is proud of its reputation for a quality hands-on, minds-on and souls-on education, individually tailored to meet each child’ s unique needs. CHS is known for its diverse student body, and for providing a warm, friendly, fun and upbeat atmosphere. Their non-judgmental, friendly and inclusive policy means every Jewish child is welcome, regardless of religious background, level of observance or prior knowledge. Chabad Hebrew School does not require any membership or prior affiliations as a condition for enrollment.
Through Hebrew reading, writing, Jewish history, holidays and more, students gain an appreciation for the joys, values and traditions of their heritage as it is vividly brought to life by the dedicated and enthusiastic teachers whose imagination and vision make every lesson a unique learning experience. Each lesson is created to engage all the senses so that the student feels an excitement and connection to the material being presented. The program is thus carefully blended with games, incentives, crafts, dramatics, family celebrations and many other exciting activities.
The goal of the school is to create a warm, friendly, upbeat and open environment where students are imbued with a warmth and curiosity for Judaism, and learn to view their Judaism in an intelligent, relevant and upbeat light - all through interactive, hands-on and innovative lessons.
When your child is ready for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah, CHS will prepare your child for their BIG day and custom-create a meaningful ceremony to make the day personally relevant, inspiring and unforgettable for the Bar/Bat Mitzvah boy/girl, their family and guests alike.
Registration for Chabad Hebrew School is still open for the upcoming year of 2010-2011. Hebrew School begins Sunday September 12th. Ask about our first month free trial.
Classes are held on Sunday mornings from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM for children aged 4-13 at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 32 New Amwell Road, in Hillsborough.
For more information and to schedule a personal tour, please call (908) 874.0444 or e-mail miriam@myjewishcenter.org . You can also check out the website at www.myjewishcenter.org.
Kingston Pastor to Retire after 36 years
The Kingston Presbyterian Church will be looking for a new pastor in January 2011 when The Rev. John Heinsohn will retire after a ministry at Kingston for 36 years. What follows are are answers to some questions posed for Mr. Heinsohn.
What are some of the changes in this community you have observed over 36 years?
In 1974 the greater Princeton area still had a number of active farms. Rt. 27 through Kingston had no stop lights. Quackerbridge Mall had not yet opened. It was still common for most housewives to not have careers outside the home. There were no cell phones or personal computers. Videos were being introduced and most homes and many businesses were not air conditioned. Children and young people actually spent a great deal of time outside.
How has the Kingston Presbyterian Church fared over this span of time?
Membership numbers have remained about the same but the ethnic mix has changed. We now have members who were born in Africa, Asia, Central America and Europe. For a smaller mid-sized church KPC has maintained an active children's and youth program and has sponsored various mission and work projects in the USA and abroad. One of the unique things about Kingston Presbyterian is the fact that the church has helped start two other congregations: an Hispanic congregation that now worships at Princeton Seminary and a Taiwanese speaking congregation that is now located in New Brunswick and is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. KPC is currently hosting a Japanese and a Korean congregation as well.
What are some of the challenges the church must face?
All Churches today are forced to deal with several challenges. The digital age has meant that we must develop a good web page. We are increasingly relying on email for our communications. Worship styles must accommodate younger tastes which usually means music with a faster pace and other instruments beside the organ. There is a growing gap between the average church member age 55 and above on the one hand and the young people under 40 on the other. Churches must meet the needs of all ages and especially engage the younger generations. Many congregations are facing financial difficulties however KPC has maintained a strong financial base over the years.
What happens after you leave?
Our denomination like most others has a proscribed process to follow when seeking an ordained clergy. For most churches it begins with the selection of an interim pastor who is trained for such a transition issues and who may not become a candidate for the installed pastor position. The interim pastor assists the congregation in its mission study and helps the congregation deal with grief and conflict issues. The mission study is a self study designed to help a congregation understand its new identity apart from the previous pastor. A Pulpit Nominating Committee is formed and hopefully within two years a new pastor is called and installed.
Where will you and your family be going when you leave Kingston?
My wife and I will be moving to Nazareth, Pa where we have already purchased a house. My family has a farm about eight miles from Nazareth which I will continue to oversee. We need to find a new church home. As you can imagine this change will be a big transition for us as well as for the church.
Any last words?
Kingston Presbyterian Church has existed since 1723. It has a fascinating history. It is in a good location and it has a great opportunity for the future
Blawenburg Reformed Church Fall Rummage Sale
October 14, 15 & 16. Sale times and drop off information will be available soon, so start cleaning out those closets.
Let Every Instrument Be Tuned for Praise
All Saints' Celebrates 50 Years with a Concert of Music and Dance
On Saturday, September 18, at 7 PM, Reverence Dance Company, directed by Cheryl Whitney-Marcuard, and the All Saints' Choir, with members of Princeton Pro Musica Chamber Chorus, led by guest conductor Frances Fowler Slade, will present a program of liturgical music and dance in the All Saints' Church Sanctuary. "This event is such an appropriate way to kick-off All Saints' 50th anniversary. Liturgy, music and dance are such an integral part of the life of the Episcopal Church," commented Ms. Whitney-Marcuard.
A festive reception will held following the concert. The event is open to the public. Free-will donation gladly accepted.
All Saints' Church was established as a worshipping congregation and chapel in 1960 by Trinity Church, both Episcopal congregations in Princeton, New Jersey. The first service at All Saints' Church was held on September 18, 1960. All Saints' functioned as a chapel of Trinity Church until it gained independence as a separate parish in 1971.
The congregation will be celebrating the founding of All Saints' Church, as a worshipping congregation, with special events planned to coincide with the 50th anniversary of its first service in September, as well as on All Saints' Sunday, November 7, 2010. A service recreating the original 1960 service is planned for Sunday, September 19, followed by the annual parish picnic.
On Sunday, November 7, the 50th anniversary celebration will culminate in a special service of Holy Communion presided over by the IX Bishop of New Jersey, The Rt. Rev. G. P. Mellick Belshaw, followed by a gala luncheon at the Henry Chauncey Conference Center in Princeton. All events are open to the public.
For further information about All Saints' Episcopal Church or its 50th Anniversary celebration, please contact the All Saints' office at 609/921-2420, or e-mail: parishadmin@allsaint.org
All Saints' Episcopal Church is located north of the Princeton Shopping Center off Terhune/VanDyke Rds.
www.allsaint.org.
Rally Day And Blawenburg Village School Sunday Sept 26
Join us at the Blawenburg Reformed Church, 424 Route 518, intersection of The Great Road/CR 601, Blawenburg, on September 26 for Rally Day and Blawenburg Village School Sunday. Worship is at 10 am. with a picnic following. Enjoy food, games, and meeting new people. Come and visit our preschool and Sunday school classrooms. Meet Karen Hill, the Director of Blawenburg Village School.
Chabad Center for Jewish Life offers free services for the Jewish High Holidays of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur
Chabad offers Services that will speak to your heart, mind and soul
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year and one of the holiest days on the Jewish calendar, is around the corner and there are still many Jews who have no plans to attend synagogue services.
Some are not affiliated with a synagogue; others will be travelling on business; and a sizable percentage simply don't feel comfortable in a synagogue setting. Another alarming issue, particularly in light of today's flailing economy, is that many cannot afford the cost of services, which these days can run a whopping thousand dollars or more for a family of five.
Whatever the case is, many of these would-be worshippers are feeling the pangs associated with being left out of the holiest days of the Jewish calendar. Chabad Center for Jewish Life, the local branch of the largest Jewish outreach organization in the world, has presented its own High Holiday services option, providing free Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services in a warm and inclusive setting.
Chabad's services are "user-friendly," making it enjoyable and meaningful for both the beginner and the advanced. Song, commentary and the use of English-Hebrew prayerbooks, enable those of all levels to become active participants in the services.
"According to Jewish tradition, on the Jewish New Year, the doors of Heaven are open. G-d accepts prayers from everyone," said Rabbi Shmaya Krinsky, who is leading the services in Hillsborough. "The least we can do is open our doors as well, to the entire community."
Rabbi Krinsky continued, "The Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, insisted that Judaism is accessible to all Jews. During the Jewish High Holidays, accessibility can translate into different factors for different people, such as a non-judgmental atmosphere, affordability of the services, or the ability for a beginner to follow along. Our goal is to lower the barriers of entry, and encourage each and every Jew to actively participate in these most holy and introspective days."
Rosh Hashanah begins this year after sundown on September 8 and extends until nightfall on September 10. Yom Kippur begins this year after sundown on the eve of September 17 and extends until nightfall on September 18.
Chabad Center For Jewish Life will also be offering a simultaneous, interactive children’s service from 11am – 2pm. Games, activities, songs and stories will make the holiday come to life for children of all ages.
A delicious Holiday luncheon will follow the services
WHERE: 32 New Amwell Road, Hillsborough, NJ 08844
WHEN: September 9 & 10, October 1
COST: Services are free, donations are greatly appreciated
TO RESERVE A SPACE: Register online at www.myjewishcenter.org or call 908-874-0444.
FOR MORE INFO ON THE JEWISH HIGH HOLIDAYS:
For more information about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, visit www.MyJewishCenter.org/newyear.
Montgomery Evangelical Free Church Offers Bible Study for Care Givers
Montgomery Evangelical Free Church (MEFC) of Montgomery Township will again provide an opportunity for caregivers to participate in a Bible study/ Care and Share group. This year we will be discussing “Job, Wrestling with God” by Paul Stevens (a LifeGuide Bible study from InterVarsity Press. The group will meet the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month from 7:30-9:00 at MEFC beginning September 23, 2010. MEFC is located at 246 Griggstown Road, Belle Mead, N.J. 08502 in the northern section of Montgomery Township, Somerset County.
A caregiver is someone who participates in overseeing or providing care for an aging, disabled or chronically ill family member or friend. Care giving usually means new responsibilities and unfamiliar tasks without the benefit of formal training. Each care receiver has unique needs.
Feelings of anxiety, anger, resentment, and isolation can arise as caregivers make personal sacrifices to meet the ongoing needs of another. Most caregivers benefit from sharing their feelings with others who are willing to listen. In addition, when caregivers are educated about available resources and learn to take care of themselves, responsibility for loved ones can also be a rich experience in spite of the challenges. In the MEFC Bible study’s warm group setting, participants may be assured of confidentiality as well as the opportunity to express feelings and concerns.
Nancy MacKay, RN, BSN, MSN will facilitate the group. Mrs. MacKay has been trained as a Stephen Leader through Stephen Ministry (a lay care giving ministry based in St Louis, MO) and has served in this capacity at MEFC for the last 6½ years. She has had many years of experience with care giving both professionally and personally. She has also organized and led support groups and health education forums in her present job as a Public Health Nurse Administrator.
T he Bible study is free and open to the public, although the study guide is $7/person. You must register by September 15, 2010 by emailing your name, address and telephone number to stephenministry@mefc.org.
For additional questions call Nancy MacKay at 732-940-6441.
Montgomery United Methodist Church Community Introduces New Prayer Labyrinth
Montgomery United Methodist Church in Belle Mead recently blessed and dedicated a new Prayer Labyrinth on the church property. A Prayer Labyrinth is a path to be walked symbolic of an individual's walk with God. It is located in the church's parking lot.
The construction of this labyrinth was the Eagle Scout project of Daniel Moses, a Boy Scout and member of the church. It was constructed in the summer and autumn of 2009, and completed on November 30. It is a project of service both to the community and to Montgomery United Methodist Church. It is ecumenical in nature, and is a visible manifestation of the Boy Scout value of Reverence.
Large Labyrinths are found in ancient European cathedrals, and have been in use at lease since 325 A. D. People who could not manage to go on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land could gain the blessing of such a trip by walking the Labyrinth. For centuries, the Labyrinth walk was seen as a source of blessing and healing energy.
Although it bears resemblance to a maze, it is not. The Prayer Labyrinth is a clear path. A person walks along the directed path slowly and prayerfully to the center, and then turns around and walks the path outward again. Walking the Prayer Labyrinth path calms and soothes the mind and spirit, and creates a sacred time and space for prayer. The Labyrinth walk should leave the spirit calm, refreshed, and centered.
The Prayer Labyrinth construction required Dan to develop the concept, seek necessary approvals, raise funds, and organize helpers to make it all happen. He also constructed a meditation garden around the Prayer Labyrinth, complete with a comfortable bench and attractive landscaping.
Rev. Dr. Anthony Godlefski, Senior Pastor of the Montgomery United Methodist Church, expressed his gratitude to Dan for all the work that went into the planning, fund raising, and production of the Prayer Labyrinth. "This will be a gift to the entire community," Dr. Godlefski said. "The Prayer Labyrinth is an ancient and ecumenical prayer expression. This Prayer Labyrinth is one of only two in the greater Princeton area. It is my hope that people of all denominations and faiths will stop by use it. It is a great way to take a refreshing "prayer break," and return to your day relaxed and centered."
Pastor Tony offered a few ideas for those who may wish to make use of the Prayer Labyrinth:
"There is no need to force anything, or to "try" to do anything on your Labyrinth walk. Let the blessing of the sacred time be what it uniquely is for you.
"Before entering the Labyrinth, take a moment to be still. Sit and relax for a moment. Take a few deep breaths. Relax the tension in your shoulders and other muscles. Stretch a bit if you'd like. Decide that this will be your time with God. No matter what else is going on in your life or in the world, you are dedicating this time to a sacred purpose. It is a brief retreat for you to enjoy the presence of God.
Symbolically toss the cares and worries you've been carrying deep into the woods, to be absorbed by God's good earth. Relax for a moment.
"Take a few steps into the Labyrinth. Pause at the first turning place. You are facing the woods. Take a moment to decide on an affirmation prayer - a short, simple phrase that you will repeat a number of times during your Labyrinth experience today.
Some examples: "I am loved; I am blessed; I am thankful:"
- "God is lifting the stress from my heart right now."
- "Dear God, please bless (name of person for whom you are praying) and let blessings flow to them."
- "God is blessing me now."
- "God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble."
- Or simply make up your own affirmation.
Walk the path slowly. Be aware of your breathing. You may pause before each turn, look up, and repeat your affirmation. Then turn and move on.
At the Center of the Prayer Labyrinth, offer a prayer of thankfulness. The center of the Labyrinth symbolizes the center of God's blessings and light. Give thanks that you are at the center of God's heart of love. Give thanks that you are receiving numerous blessings, and will continue to be blessed.
As you retrace your steps outward, you may continue to pause before each turn, and repeat your affirmation. You may change or alter your affirmation if that feels right to you. Breathe deeply. Take your time. Feel the subtle spiritual energy increase within you.
At the conclusion of the path, you will be facing outward, toward the church. Take a moment to simply pause and breathe. Give thanks for the time with God. Feel free to return again and again. You are always welcome.
The Prayer Labyrinth is located the far corner of the parking lot behind the church, and is available anytime during daylight hours.
More information is available by calling the church at 908-874-3273, or visiting the Montgomery United Methodist Church website at www.MontgomeryUMC.org.
Casino Night at Congregation Kehilat Shalom
Congregation Kehilat Shalom is offering a fun-filled night of casino games, and a chance to bid and win prizes at its event called "An Enchanted Evening." The festivities will take place on March 13, from 7:30 to 11:00 p.m at the synagogue located at 253 Griggstown Road.
"We want to provide an opportunity for our members and area residents to enjoy a night out and to possibly win some fantastic items," said Matt Rosenthal, President of CKS.
The event will feature international hors d'oeuvres and desserts, a silent auction and casino games. There is also a raffle for a 32 inch high-definition flat screen television plus a Mystery Wine Station where guests can buy a wine ticket for $15 but possibly pick a bottle of wine worth much more. The admission price of $30 includes food and casino chips.
Among the items available during the auction are:
- A roundtrip airplane ride to Nantucket for four with lunch included;
- An Interior Design Kit from Stewart and Bloom Design Group valued at $1200;
- One session with Performance Enhancement Strategies - perfect for performers of any type;
- Choice of a week of summer camp, a children's birthday party or a class for an adult or child donated by the Arts Council of Princeton;
Although "An Enchanted Evening" is sponsored by CKS, the event committee hopes to attract residents from the entire area looking for a festive evening. "In this economy, it is hard to find something to do that is reasonable and fun," said Deborah Tesser, Chair of the event. "This is also an opportunity to bid on and maybe go home with a terrific item." Make your plans now and have something fun to do to beat the winter doldrums on March 13.
For more information and to RSVP, call the synagogue office at 908-359-0420 or e-mail robin@ksnj.org.
Congregation Kehilat Shalom, located at 253 Belle Mead-Griggstown Road in Belle Mead, is a Reconstructionist synagogue. CKS is a warm and welcoming community dedicated to serving the spiritual, educational, cultural, and social needs of a diverse congregation. We maintain a unique, vibrant and visible Jewish presence in the greater Montgomery-Hillsborough-Princeton area.
Lecture series at Blawenburg reformed Church
Blawenburg Reformed Church announced that it will host a monthly Lecture Series at its facility on Route 518 in Montgomery Twp. The first program will feature local celebrity and noted pollster George Gallup, on Wednesday, March 10 at 7:30pm. Gallup will speak on "The Mood in America: Is There Cause for Being Hopeful?"
Blawenburg Church is a historic house of worship, in service continuously since 1832. Its pastor, Richard Van Doren, said of the new lecture series: "We're pleased to offer this service to the community, and we're particularly pleased that our neighbor, George Gallup, has stepped up to lead it off." Van Doren said the church has been approached several times over the years by individuals and groups seeking to use its facilities in this way. "Our Consistory - the governing board of the church - decided at a meeting last fall that a program like this would fit our mission perfectly, and would be a valuable offering to the community."
The lectures will be offered free of charge. Rev. Van Doren said that, in the event the church incurs costs in offering certain lectures, it would invite "voluntary donations" to help offset those costs.
The second program in the series - on Wednesday, April 7th at 7:30pm - will feature motivational speaker Natalie Gahrmann on "Taming Stress In your Over-Committed Life". Natalie Gahrmann is a certified professional coach and work/life expert who works with organizations to underscore the causes of stress. Her presentation promises to be "highly interactive", and timely for many working women in our area.
On Wednesday, May 5, the series will feature noted Princeton area Cardiologist and author Dr. William Haynes. And on Wednesday, May 26, the final program of the season will feature Blawenburg Church's own Rev. Richard Van Doren. "If the lecture series proves to be a popular program," said church leader and principal organizer of the series Charles Parmele, "we'll go to work on a series of speakers for the fall."
Blawenburg Reformed Church is located in the historic village of Blawenburg, on Somerset County Route 518 between U.S. 206 and The Great Road. All programs will begin at 7:30pm and will last for about an hour.
Congregation Kehilat Shalom Prepares For High Hollidays
Although the summer is just getting started, congregants at Congregation Kehilat Shalom (CKS) are already preparing for The Jewish High Holidays – Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
These are the most important of all Jewish holidays and commence early this year with the Erev Rosh Hashanah Service on September 8 at 7:30. The first day Rosh Hashanah service begins at 9:30 on September 9. As always, CKS invites non-members from the community who may not have a place to observe to contact the office for tickets for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. While there is no charge for members or non-members, tickets are required and information on how to obtain them is available on the website, www.ksnj.org.
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is observed on the first and second day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Jewish calendar. Yom Kippur, The Day of Atonement, falls on the tenth day of Tishrei. It is the most solemn day of the Jewish year.
CKS services provide a warm and spiritual environment to observe the holidays and are led by Rabbi Susan Falk and Lay Cantor Kate Fridkis. There is a children’s service for both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and an invigorating Tashlich Hike on the first day of Rosh Hashanah. To receive free tickets for non-members visit www.ksnj.org or call the synagogue office at 908-359-0420.
The full High Holidays schedule for this year is:
8/28, Teshuvah Movie Night, 7 pm. 9/8, Erev Rosh Hashanah Service, 7:30 pm; 9/9, Rosh Hashanah 1st Day Service (free tickets required), 9:30 am; Children's Service (concurrent with morning service), 11:00 am; Tashlikh Hike to Pike Creek (dress for hiking) 4:15 pm; 9/10 Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day Non-Traditional Service, 9:30 am; 9/12 First Day of Religious School, 9-12 pm; Blood Drive, 9 am; New Member & Welcome Back BBQ; 12 pm; 9/17, Kol Nidrei Service (Free Tickets Required), 6:30 pm; 9/18, Yom Kippur Morning Service (Free Tickets Required) 9:30 am; Children's Service (concurrent with morning service), 11 am; Yizkor Service, 1 pm; Non-Traditional Avodah Service followed by Neilah Service, 4:45 pm;l Shofar blowing (Break Fast to follow), 7:05 pm; 9/24, Pizza in the Hut - Sukkot Celebration, 6 pm; Shabbat services, 7 pm; 9/30, Simchat Torah Celebration (music by the Klez Dispensers), 7 pm.
For more a more detailed schedule or for free High Holiday tickets, visit www.ksnj.org or call 908-359-0420. Kehilat Shalom is currently accepting registration for 2010/2011 Religious School year. Congregation Kehilat Shalom, located at 253 Belle Mead–Griggstown Road in Belle Mead, is a Reconstructionist synagogue. CKS is a warm and welcoming community dedicated to serving the spiritual, educational, cultural and social needs of a diverse congregation. We maintain a unique, vibrant and visible Jewish presence in the greater Montgomery–Hillsborough-Princeton area. If you are interested in more information, please call 908-359-0420, email robin@ksnj.org.
St Charles Norromeo - “It was the Invitation”
Everybody’s faith journey is different. We live in such a diverse world today where cultures are intertwined at just about every corner of the world. This new woven world has brought about different opportunities for people to discover how God is active within their lives.
St Charles Borromeo, located in Skillman, is a place that offers many opportunities for people to try and discover ways to encounter God. We are a Roman Catholic faith community who strive to focus on the meaning of the word catholic which means ‘universal’. We open our doors and welcome all. As God has chosen all of us to participate in his life, our faith community lives a life in the message of the gospel, a mission which all men and woman can belong.
Two years ago Sean and Kyung Jung natives of Korea, invited by friends who belonged to St Charles, walked through our doors with the same anticipation they had with previous church doors. The Jungs wanted to find meaning and direction in their faith journey. After meeting other Koreans and members within St Charles they no longer are wanderers, they have found a home. This past April at our Easter Vigil, after a wonderful year of prayer and formation, our community formally welcomed them as members of the Catholic Community of St Charles.
Many of us are like the Jungs, searching. Sometimes all it takes is an invitation. Are you in need of an invitation? If you have ever wondered what the faith community is like over at St Charles Borromeo and never visited, we invite you to call. We would love to show you our worship space and bring you around the pastoral building. We have great coffee and would be more than happy to share with you the wonderful opportunities that people have to grow a deeper understanding of their faith. You can find out more information about St Charles at our website www.borromeo.org or email me directly at dnelson@borromeo.org My name is Darrin Nelson.
Rabbi Arnold Gluck To Be Honored
Rabbi Arnold Gluck To Be Honored For 18 Years of Dedicated Service to Temple Beth-El in Hillsborough, NJ
On April 17, 2010, the congregants of Temple Beth-El in Hillsborough, New Jersey, will honor Rabbi Arnold S. Gluck for his 18 years of dedicated service. A gala event will be held that evening at the temple.
Now in his nineteenth year with Temple Beth-El, Rabbi Gluck continues to be a strong and visionary leader. He has worked tirelessly with many talented co-workers and congregants to pioneer a diversity of programs for the members of Temple Beth-El as well as the surrounding community. From providing direction for Jewish education, to promoting involvement in needed service programs, Rabbi Gluck has inspired countless individuals.
"We are very lucky we found such an inspiring and dedicated leader for our community," states current Temple Beth-El President, Caren Bateman. "Under Rabbi Gluck's leadership, we have built a wonderful community and have seen the growth of our membership as well as multiple expansions of our facilities. He continues to inspire us and guide us in these challenging times with the same spirit he had 18 years ago. We are very excited to be able to host a special event in Rabbi Gluck's honor on April 17."
Rabbi Gluck has made it his hallmark to engage students of all ages in Jewish learning. He spends many hours with every family whose child is about to become a bar or bat mitzvah of the Jewish faith. The rabbi encourages questions, adding greater depth of meaning to this unique life-cycle event, and encouraging our students to continue their Jewish studies through high school and beyond.
Rabbi Gluck is very involved in the classroom with the students and developing a curriculum that is meaningful to them. He teaches the Grade 10 Confirmation and Post-Confirmation classes (grades 11 to 12). Each winter Rabbi Gluck and the temple's Religious School directors travel with the Confirmation class students to Washington D.C. There the 10th graders meet with our federal and state representatives under a program organized by the Religious Action Center of the Union for Reform Judaism. Guided by Rabbi Gluck, these young adults learn to address complex issues involving ethics, politics, and religion.
Rabbi Gluck also strongly believes that Jewish learning is life long learning and lives by that commitment in teaching adults in the community as well. His adult education classes include Torah study and Talmud class; mini-courses throughout the year; A Taste of Judaism and Introduction to Judaism courses, which he helped to create and develop as a national model for the Reform movement; countless hours of private study with conversion candidates; and regular congregational trips to Israel. Rabbi Gluck is a passionate and devoted exemplar of Jewish learning and living.
In the greater local and Jewish community, he is among the founders of the Interfaith Hospitality Network for the Homeless (IHN). In Union County, he was a founding board member of the first IHN, and when he came to Temple Beth-El in 1991, he worked with volunteers to bring the network to Somerset County and Temple Beth-El, where it continues today with a committed cadre of volunteers. Rabbi Gluck was instrumental in bringing Somerset and Hunterdon County synagogues, the Jewish Community Center, and Jewish Family Services under the auspices of the Jewish Federation to form Jewish LIFE (Learning Is For Everyone). This unique adult education consortium brings to our area guest lecturers and special programs that the individual
institutions would not otherwise be able to sponsor. Among the scholars and artists who have visited our community are Alan Dershowitz, Debbie Friedman, Rabbi David Ellenson, Rabbi Joseph Telushkin, and Bishop John Spong.
Rabbi Gluck also worked to establish the Ohr Tikvah Jewish Healing Center, which provides support to anyone in need of assistance as a result of illness, loss, or other hardship, which includes providing spiritual guidance to incarcerated individuals. A past president of SAMA, the Somerville Area Ministerial Association, Rabbi Gluck is currently working with our temple leadership to promote congregational-based community organizing, which he plans to advance in the local faith community to address such pressing issues as health care, and green energy use.
Rabbi Gluck's leadership reaches beyond the local community as well. In the Reform Movement, Rabbi Gluck serves on the Commission on Outreach, contributing to a variety of its publications and co-authoring its Taste of Judaism program. He was the founding Coordinator of the Beit Din for Conversion of the New Jersey Association of Reform Rabbis, and has served on the Conversion Committee of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR). He currently serves on the CCAR Responsa Committee.
The April 17, 2010 gala will be an opportunity for the community to honor and thank Rabbi Gluck for his wonderful accomplishments. If you are interested in attending the event, placing a greeting or advertisement in the Tribute Journal or participating in the Silent Auction which will begin on-line at www.TBEChaiGala.com, please feel free to contact the Temple Beth-El office 908-722-0674. You may ask for Beth Lavranchuk, one of the event organizers.
Temple Beth-El is a Reform Jewish congregation. A member of the Union for Reform Judaism, the temple was founded in 1953 by 15 families. Today, the congregation numbers 450 households and offers a variety of cultural, educational, social and spiritual opportunities to its members and to the greater New Jersey Jewish community. For more information about temple life and programs, please visit online at www.bethel.urj.net or call 908-722-0674.
Speaker Series at Blawenburg reformed Church
The second program in the series - on Wednesday, April 7th at 7:30pm - will feature motivational speaker Natalie Gahrmann on "Taming Stress In your Over-Committed Life". Natalie Gahrmann is a certified professional coach and work/life expert who works with organizations to underscore the causes of stress. Her presentation promises to be "highly interactive", and timely for many working women in our area.
Blawenburg Church is a historic house of worship, in service continuously since 1832. Its pastor, Richard Van Doren, said of the new lecture series: "We're pleased to offer this service to the community, and we're particularly pleased that our neighbor, George Gallup, has stepped up to lead it off." Van Doren said the church has been approached several times over the years by individuals and groups seeking to use its facilities in this way. "Our Consistory - the governing board of the church - decided at a meeting last fall that a program like this would fit our mission perfectly, and would be a valuable offering to the community."
The lectures will be offered free of charge. Rev. Van Doren said that "voluntary donations" will be accepted, and will go to help missions of the church.
On Wednesday, May 5th, the series will feature noted Princeton area Cardiologist and author Dr. William Haynes on "Is There a Role for Prayer in Today's Medical Practice?". And on Wednesday, May 26th, the final program of the season will feature Blawenburg Church's own Rev. Richard Van Doren on "America on the Brink - of Disaster or An Era of Hope? A Bible View". "If the lecture series proves to be a popular program," said church leader and principal organizer of the series Charles Parmele, "we'll go to work on a series of speakers for the fall."
Blawenburg Reformed Church is located in the historic village of Blawenburg, on Somerset County Route 518 between U.S. 206 and The Great Road. All programs will begin at 7:30pm and will last for about an hour.
Bike Drive & Cycle Safety Event At PUMC
Princeton United Methodist Church will hold a bike drive and safe cycling event on Saturday, May 8, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the intersection of Nassau Street, Washington Road, and Vandeventer Avenue. In addition to collecting donations of used bicycles, the event will feature courses on bike safety and maintenance, a children's activity area, and information tables from cycling advocacy and enthusiast groups from around the area.
All bikes collected will be donated to the Boys and Girls Club Bike Exchange, where they will be refurbished and resold to fund programs at the Boys and Girls Club of Trenton. Classes planned for adults include: How to Fit a Helmet; Change a Tire/Fix a Flat; and Give Your Bike a Spring Safety Check. Children's activities include checking for proper helmet fitting, games to help kids recognize traffic signs, and a bicycle obstacle course.
The Boys and Girls Club Bike Exchange opened in Ewing in May 2009, and it has resold more than 1,000 bicycles so far. In 2009 the effort raised more than $43,000 for Boys and Girls Club programming. "Our ability to continue to provide reliable, low-cost bicycles to the community depends on the continued support of our community, and events like this bike drive are one of the best ways we have to feed the pipeline," says Russ White, founder of the Bike Exchange. "I think it's great that Princeton United Methodist is taking it one step further by really encouraging cycling in Mercer County."
"We're pleased that this event will both promote safe cycling and support the Boys and Girls Club," said Rev. Tom Lank, assistant pastor at PUMC. "Our congregation is very engaged in social justice issues, and we are really focusing on issues of environmental sustainability within the church. This event is a natural extension that combines these two aspects of our faith community. The bike drive will keep bikes out of the landfill, and get them to families who can put them to good use, while at the same time raising money for a great youth-serving organization in Mercer County. We also hope that if people learn more about cycling safely through our classes, they will feel more confident about getting out of their cars and using bikes for transportation."
For more information on the Bike Exchange, visit http://www.bikeexchangenj.org/. To learn more about Princeton United Methodist Church, go to http://www.princetonumc.org/ or call 609-924-2613. PUMC is a diverse congregation whose members come from many surrounding communities, backgrounds, and faith histories.
Value Every Moment of Life
Have you ever imagined what it would be like to save a person’s life? What if your life was saved and you got a “second chance” - how would you react?
"With the recent unimaginable loss of life in Haiti, we sometimes think the only way to save a life is to physically drag someone out of the rubble," says Itty Barber, Co-coordinator of the CTeen group. "Yet without realizing it, many people around us are trapped in the rubble of life, unable to make it out alone. And all they need is a smile or a kind word to help them get out."
At CTeen’s upcoming event on March 21st, 3pm teens across the nation are standing together to spread awareness about the value of life. The teens will be coming together for a day of powerful stories, thought provoking discussion and practical action as they set out to learn about the value of life.
While teens will be developing the necessary tools to physically save a life with a First Aid training course and hear some experiences from Colonel Steve Katz, a Colonel in the American army, they will also take to the streets and the bowling alley with VALUE OF LIFE Pledge Cards, offering ordinary people the chance to help save a life. As the Jewish sages have said, “He who saves a life, saves a world!”
In addition to the VALUE OF LIFE Pledge Cards, there will be a website for filling out pledges, offering additional accessibility and excitement via social networking.
Rabbi Shmaya Krinsky, director of Chabad Center for Jewish Life says, “Unfortunately, as we know, not everyone gets a second chance. But as Victor Frankel so wisely advised, 'Live as if you were living already for the second time'.
CTeen is open to all Jewish teens in the community, regardless of affiliation. If you are, have, or know a Jewish teenager, please encourage them to join. They won't regret it! If you would like to add input, suggestions, or volunteer, please let CTeen know! This work is seriously making a difference in people's lives. Call 908-874-0444 or email Chabad@myjewishcenter.org for more information. Or you can visit www.myjewishcenter.org
The Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church
Though this former house of worship has been closed for quite some time with the most devoted of its congregants long gone, this little "church by the side of the road" is anything but forgotten. When making a left turn onto tree - lined Hollow Road from Camp Meeting Avenue one could easily drive past the church as it is covered by a large cluster of trees.
Mt. Zion AME Church - Hollow Road
Amid the peeling paint and patches of over - grown grass the Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church appears forsaken and lonely, yet in spite of its weathered condition and seemed abandonment this charming little church still maintains its rustic charm and history, a history that dates back to the 19th century where African Americans lived on Sourland Mountain in the villages of Rileyville and Minnietown, both of which disappeared sometime around the turn of the century after the few mountain businesses failed and the peach orchards were destroyed.
Mt. Zion was founded circa 1866 in the village of Zion originally located near Zion and Lindbergh Roads on the Somerset County side of Province Line evidence of which is noted as "African Church" on the 1850 Otley and Keily Map of Somerset County.
As the church has always been the cornerstone of the African-American community it was decided that the newly migrated black people would move their place of worship closer to them. Local legend and family history has it that both black and white banded together dismantled the structure and brought it down the mountain piece by piece by horse and wagon to its current Hollow Road location.
An inscription on the cornerstone of the church's foundation reads "Nov. 19, 1899." It is not clear if this is the relocation date or the date of reconstruction.
Inside, the church seems frozen in time and except for a fine coating of dust and a spider web here and there the sanctuary remains an orderly place. On one side of the one-room structure a hymnal board displays the page numbers of the hymns sung at a Women and Men's Day celebration in June 2004. The other side of the room a picture of the Last Supper makes one take notice of the rich wood paneling that line the walls and ceiling alike. Overlooking 13pews - now painted white - a bible lies open atop the pulpit as if in the middle of a sermon.
Pictures and plaques line the walls in honor of former members and clergy while bibles, hymnals and old fashioned fans remain neatly stacked at the edge of the pews as if waiting for the congregation to return in spite of the fact that the church has been closed for several years.
In earlier years when Mt. Zion's attendance began to dwindle member, Bessie Grover along with the assistance of Rev. Lawton James was instrumental in keeping its doors open, which remained so for some time to come with quite a succession of ministers in the early 1960s starting with Rev. Duvall from 1963 to 1965 followed by Pastor Suzy Titus and the Rev. John H. Ford, both of which served the Mt. Zion AME Church between 1965 and 1994.
Both Rev. Denzil Turton and Tom Hills would be the last to serve the church before it closed its doors for good in October 2004.
Rocky Hill Church - A Revitalization Update
There continues to be new "signs" of life popping up around the First Reformed Church of Rocky Hill these days. Lead by Rev. Linda Pepe in her second full year as Pastor, the church "in the heart of the community, with community in its heart" is experiencing the blessing of renewal. The message of God's love, acceptance and inclusivity continues to attract a variety of community friends and families. "It is amazing to see the exuberance and growth that has taken place in the past year and to serve in such a vibrant congregation," said Pastor Linda. "Our goal as a community of faith is to offer a place where walls are down and arms are open; where people can experience true welcome and communion with one another. We try to give each person the space to grow individually on their faith journey, while growing together in love as a people of God."
The Sunday worship experience at the church is diverse. Along with a relevant message, the worship service is often enhanced in a unique way. Whether it is a drama, a multimedia presentation, or even a special musical theme such as Jazz or Rock Sunday, worship is both a creative and interactive time for the gathered community. The church is the worship home of a number of gifted musicians, so it's not uncommon to hear a string quartet, a choir, or praise band from week to week - there is often an experience that reflects the diversity of the congregation. A highlight for the congregation during worship is the "Prayers of the Community" where many come to discover the wealth of caring and support that the church provides for one another in times of both joy and trouble.
Another new addition to the church is Annie Reilly, who was recently appointed Youth Minister. Annie provides an expansion of worship and fellowship opportunities for the youth of the church and community. The FRC Youth Group, "Plunge," gives young people their own opportunity to experience God's love in a supportive environment. The group also focuses on dealing with life issues specific to them. Annie also coordinates Sunday nursery/child care as more infants and toddlers find themselves in church with their parents.
Small group and Bible studies meet at various times during the week. These groups provide a nurturing space to explore and grow spiritually, while discovering both commonalities and differences. There is also a new group beginning on May 30th for people in their 20's, which represent a substantial amount of the recent church growth.
While experiencing an inward renewal, the Rocky Hill Church will soon undergo an outward transformation. The church has just established a capital campaign to fund restoration and painting of the exterior. After the painting is complete, many other repairs will be needed. The church has been placed on the National Historic Register and has been blessed to have HMR Architects of Princeton complete
an initial preservation plan primarily funded by the Historic Preservation Trust of New Jersey.
One more note about that new "sign" of life: Look for the new church sign to be put up on Washington Street soon. The old sign was destroyed by a car accident last year and will be replaced with a new, fresh look. The sign will also include information about the flourishing Korean American Fellowship that meets at FRC.
First Reformed Church is located at the corner of Reeve and Washington Streets in Rocky Hill. Sunday Worship is at 10am, Sunday School at 9 am. For more information, check out the the church on the WEB at WWW.RockyHillChurch.Com or on their Facebook page. You are welcome here.
Temple Beth-El Hillsborough, Hosts 2nd Annual Youth Choir Concert May 16
On Sunday, May 16, 2010, Temple Beth-El, Hillsborough, NJ, will host the second annual Junior Choir Zimriyah featuring youth choirs from six central New Jersey Reform and Conservative temples. The free public concert begins at 3:00 p.m.
The six junior choirs that will be represented at the festival are from Temple Shalom, Succasunna; Temple Emanu-El, Westfield; Temple Emanu-El, Edison; Adath Israel, Lawrenceville; Temple Beth-Or, Washington Township; Temple Beth-El, the host temple. More than 80 students will be participating.
Music Director and Youth Chorale Director Eric Komar, Temple Beth-El, who is this year’s host, said, “We are very excited to be holding the event here in our community. It is a wonderful opportunity for our students to hear other temple youth choirs as well as to be able to perform in front of a larger audience.”
Each choir will perform two to three songs. At the end of the concert, all the choirs will join together to sing “Hava Nashira” by Josh Nelson, a contemporary Jewish musician.
Komar notes, “There is some amazing talent in this group of young students. This should be an enjoyable afternoon of great Jewish music, showcasing our youth choirs. We are delighted that we can bring it to Hillsborough.”
Temple Beth-El is a Reform Jewish congregation. A member of the Union for Reform Judaism, the temple was founded in 1953 by 15 families. Today, the congregation numbers 450 households and offers a variety of cultural, educational, social and spiritual opportunities to its members and to the greater New Jersey Jewish community. For more information about temple life and programs, please visit online at www.bethel.urj.net or call 908-722-0674.
Faith Lutheran Church - Dec 2009
Faith Lutheran Church, located at 381 South Branch Road in Hillsborough at the intersection of S Branch and Beekman Roads, has been a growing part of the community for over forty years. Throughout the years, Faith's membership and outreach to the community has grown considerably. Faith now has over 700 members and membership continues to increase each year.
The life of the congregation is centered in worship as Holy Communion is celebrated each Sunday at 8:30 and 11:00 AM. From September through May Sunday School, including an adult class is held at 9:45.
Faith has a multitude of successful activities and programs for the congregation and the general community. The members of Faith enjoy outings, congregational picnics, and participation in the South Somerset Church softball league with many more activities being planned.
Faith has expanded its programs to include a multitude of new and exciting initiatives for children of all ages. The youth groups, "Teens and Tweens", enjoy regular meetings, participation in worship, outings, service projects and retreats.
It is our mission at Faith Lutheran Church to Celebrate God's love and accept each other as Christ accepts us, and serve with His spirit in our community. The members of Faith put their time and talents to work when it comes to helping the community. Faith is a participant in the Samaritan Homeless Interim Program (SHIP). Four Seasons Child Care Center, located at the church, offers pre-school instruction and child care. Food collection for the Hillsborough Food Bank is an ongoing project. Faith makes a strong effort to make holidays special for those in need; delivering Thanksgiving fruit baskets each year to the Senior Nutrition Center, sponsoring a "gift tree" for the Hillsborough Resource Center for Women and prison ministries, participating in the annual CROP Walk for Somerset County, and supporting CWS Blanket Sunday and, through the Sunday School, "God's Global Barnyard", a ministry of the ELCA.
Faith Lutheran Church is active and growing, continually adding new programs and activities throughout the year. The church has activities for everyone. New members and visitors are always welcome. For more information on Faith Lutheran, please call the church office at (908) 369-3201 or check us out on the web at www.faithlutherannj.org.
Local Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings
(Subject to change)
www.nnjaa.org
www.24-club.org
SUNDAY
8:30am, 24 Club (located behind Vespias/Goodyear at the Princeton North Shopping Center, Rts 518 and 206), 5:30pm, 24 Club
7:30pm, Rocky Hill Reformed Church, Rt 518
MONDAY
7:15am, 24 Club, Rocky Hill
12noon, 24 Club
5:30pm, 24 Club
7pm, 24 Club
8pm, Hillsborough Presbyterian Church, Rt 206 and Homestead Rd
TUESDAY
7:15am, 24 Club
12noon, RH Reformed Church
5pm, 24 Club
7pm, Double Trouble, 24 Club
7:30 BYO Big Book, Harlingen Ref. Church
WEDNESDAY
7:15am, 24 Club
12:15pm, 24 Club
5:30pm, 24 Club
7:30pm, RH Reformed Church
8 pm, Mens Meeting, 24 Club
8pm, Hillsborough Presb. Church
8 pm, Men’s Meeting, 24 Club
THURSDAY
7:15am, 24 Club
12:15 pm, 24 Club
5:30pm, 24 Club
7 pm, Women’s Meeting,
24 Club
7:30pm Carrier Clinic, Main
Building, Garden Cafe
FRIDAY
7:15am, 24 Club
12:15pm, 24 Club
3pm, Carrier Clinic Outpatient Building
5:30pm, 24 Club
8pm, Hopewell United. Meth. Church.
SATURDAY
7:15am, 24 Club
5:30pm, 24 Club
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their common experience and help each other to recover from alcoholism.
Montgomery United Methodist Church Fall Rummage Sale
Friday, Oct. 22, 9am-3pm, Friday Eve.5-7 pm and Saturday, Oct. 23, 9 am-noon. Clothing, baby items, toys, sports equipment, household items and much more. Please NO TV's or Computers. Saturday only, fill a bag for $6 and up. Proceeds benefit United Methodist Women's Mission of education and care for women and children (Global and local) and the M.U.M.Church located at 117 Sunset Road, Belle Mead, off Rt.206 south.
For more information, call 609-466-1163.
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