We continue to be in prayer for each of you. Below are a few actions steps some of our ABCNJ churches are taking in response to the coronavirus and the well-being of the community. Each congregation should do what is best for their particular situation. You will also find additional resources below that will be helpful as you develop your own plan of action.
Read MoreAs news of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to unfold, I am certain that we have many questions regarding precautionary measures are appropriate to take—especially as we gather together for worship.
Read MoreOn the afternoon of Monday, January 27, over thirty clergy from across ABCNJ gathered at Harvey Cedars Bible Conference for a twenty-four hour retreat. In addition to times of corporate prayer and worship, this retreat offered times of extended silence. During these periods attendees were encouraged to relax and be, quieting their lives so that God could speak into the quiet vacuum created through the spiritual discipline.
Read MoreIt is with deep gratitude and respect that I announce the forthcoming retirement of our friend and colleague, Mr. Donald “Smitty” Smith. After 24 years of faithful service as Director of Baptist Camp Lebanon, Mr. Donald Smith will be retiring effective April 30, 2020. Don, affectionately called “Smitty," has been an invaluable team member of ABCNJ for 31 years.
Read MoreThe Reverend Miriam Méndez, American Baptist Churches of New Jersey (ABCNJ) Executive Minister and Senior Regional Pastor, is pleased to announce that Reverend David Van Brakle has been called to join the regional ministry team as a full-time Associate Regional Pastor, effective January 6, 2020.
Read MoreIt may be difficult to believe, but in 2019 there remain some Hurricane Sandy survivors who are still waiting to return home.
Read MoreAn opportunity to prayerfully answer God's call in a Christ-centered, mission-focused and diverse region.
Read MoreIn response to floods in the Plains and Midwest caused by rapid snowmelt and heavy rains, American Baptist Home Mission Societies, on behalf of American Baptist Churches USA, has launched a One Great Hour of Sharing campaign to raise much-needed funds for victims.
Read MoreSurf in to see our new Executive Minister and Senior Regional Pastor being commissioned to her new ministry!
Read MoreIt’s time to have a Service of Commissioning and Consecration for the Rev. Miriam Méndez, our new Executive Minister and Senior Regional Pastor!
Read MoreABCNJ is pleased to announce it has been awarded an $11,590 Palmer Grant through the American Baptist Foundation, in partnership with The American Baptist Home Missions Society.
Read MoreThe life of a pastor can be rewarding, but it can also be draining. This is why the ABCNJ Region Ministry team is inviting all ABCNJ Clergy to come and retreat at Harvey Cedars Bible Conference on January 28 & 29.
Read More“If you don’t come apart… you will simply come apart.” Register today for the 2019 Clergy Retreat.
Read MoreIn 2015, shortly after turning 60 years old, Dr. Familiaran, in conversation with his wife, Maria Fe, began discerning God’s leading in his spirit to explore the possibility of taking a little early retirement. That would have been 2017, but there was a small detour he had to make on that journey.
Read MoreThis past week was a very sad week in our country, Jesus’ disciples must be courageous in sharing the light of his love.
Read MoreAt a specially called session of the region on October 27, 2108, the American Baptist Churches of New Jersey called the Reverend Miriam Méndez as its new Executive Minister and Senior Regional Pastor. With her election, Rev. Méndez becomes both the first woman and first Latinx to be called to this position.
Read MoreThis past Friday, October 28, a double disaster struck the Indonesian island of Sulawasi. First, a shallow 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the region. Then, less an hour later, a 18 foot high tsunami tore across the island – devastating the cities of Palu and Donggala. Donggala remains inaccessible by ground, as the the main bridge into the city collapsed during the disaster.
Read MoreAs someone who has been on several search committees, both denominational and academic, I want to let the region know that this was one of the best I have had the privilege to serve on. It had a good balance between men and women, and both ethnic and racial diversity. It was also a good mix of both pastors and lay people. In every way it represented the ABCNJ family.
Read MoreOver the past month Dr. Spitzer has been experiencing some difficulties which pointed to trouble with his heart. This week he recieved a diagnosis that one of his heart valves was wearing out and needed to be replaced. He will soon be undergoing surgery to receive a mechanical replacement.
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