Sharipen Bequest Applications open 11/1

Ministries of the church can annually apply for funds to initiate new projects, programs and ministries. Grant funds are not intended to be used to replace normal operating budget allocations. Primary consideration will be given to those programs or projects which display the potential to initiate or further the long-term outreach of the church. The next round of applications open on November 1st and are due January 31, 2023 at 5:00 PM. Now is the time to start envisioning new initiatives. Multiple years applications will be considered. Click here for the application and to learn more. Please email the completed application to Lucy in the church office at lducko@hopewellpres.org

Final reports are due on all funded projects before new funding is awarded. A partial report is due if a project was awarded year long funding. If you have any questions please contact any member of the generosity committee. Members are: Joe Bevis, Ruth Mortensen, Bev Mills and Pat Swartz.

Garden of Grace Update

We've had a terrific year of growing fresh produce for the Chubby's Project during 2022 -- thanks to our combined efforts of planning, planting, watering, weeding and harvesting!

Below is our final summary and above are a few pictures of the various vegetables that sprung from the 3 raised beds this season.

Special thanks to those who were able to stop by and periodically water this garden, especially during the extra DRY weeks during July & August!

 HPC Garden of Grace – 2022 Season Outcome  

Swiss Chard:            19.0 lbs.        (June 15 - Aug 5)

Snap Peas:                 9.5 lbs.        (June)

Cucumbers:              81.5 lbs.        (July 6 - Sept. 4)

Plum Tomatoes:        21.0 lbs.        (July 19 - Sept. 4)

Green Beans:             2.5 lbs.        (Sept.11- Oct.10)

 Total amount of Produce: 133.5 lbs. of fresh produce provided to Chubby’s Project between June – Oct. 2022

These vegetable plants are good candidates for repeating again next year as they all did very well, with the exception of the green beans, which suffered from being seeded during drought weeks of summer. The beans would undoubtedly do much better next year with extra care during the first 2 weeks after seeding.

Children’s Sabbath - Sunday, October 16th

Children’s Sabbath weekend engages places of worship across the country in focusing worship on including children at the table and learning more about the urgent problems facing our nation’s children. Children’s Sabbath encourages us to respond with outreach, inclusion, and advocacy, and most importantly, inspire new, year-round action to improve the lives of children

One way we care for our children is by providing for their spiritual needs.  When we welcome children to the table (as we will do this Sunday) we practice outreach and inclusion as well as giving children the opportunity to grow into their spirituality in ways that will allow them to pursue justice beside us.   To learn more about sacraments and children at the table, see below.

May children participate in communion?

The PC(USA) believes that baptized children who are being nurtured and instructed in the significance of the invitation to the Table and the meaning of their response are invited to receive the Lord’s Supper, recognizing that their understanding of participation will vary according to their maturity. Since each child’s development is different, the age of readiness will vary from child to child. The determination of this readiness is primarily the responsibility of the parents, but it is also the responsibility of the whole church to assist parents in fulfilling this responsibility of preparing their children for meaningful participation in Communion. Therefore, our church welcomes children to Communion when their parent(s) feel the child is ready, and in conjunction with instruction from the church about communion--both in worship and in weekly education offerings.    

Session Update for September 2022

As usual, the September Session meeting opened with a period of prayer and reflection. Reflecting on Genesis 39, we shared our individual memories of times of both darkness and light in the history of this church community, reminding ourselves that God uses both circumstances to help us move forward.

With the Personnel Ministry’s report, Session spent some time continuing to review the very comprehensive Personnel Policy Document. This highlighted some of the complex issues surrounding the relationship between the church and our important missions especially as we continue to launch the Hopewell Youth Collective and steward our relationships with Creative Connections Play School and Hearts and Hammers. HPC is legally responsible for these missions and so must be sure that they function in accordance with the church’s policies and procedures.

From the Treasurer, Session heard with concern that current levels of giving of tithes and offerings are not sufficient to meet the monthly payroll resulting in us using reserves to cover these costs. We discussed the possible reasons for this shortfall, coming as it does at a time when in every other respect the church appears to be active and thriving. We continue to see growth in attendance, both in worship and in educational offerings as well as in community engagement. We remembered together that this congregation has as strong history of generosity especially when asked. Various initiatives to address the situation we reviewed and no major changes where made as far as planning for expenditures. We are looking to increase monthly giving by approximately $13,000. As you read this information, we don’t want you to worry. We simply we ask that you consider how God might be calling you to step into this gap.

On recommendation from the Generosity Committee, Session approved a gift of $12,000 to be split among the Chubby’s Project, the Rescue Mission of Trenton, and Friends for Health in Haiti. It was also discussed that for every $1 spent on the Sanctuary redesign project, $1 will be given to mission. Session believes that this is a responsible way in which we can share the blessing the church has received through the Sharipen bequest, but more discussion on this topic is needed before an official vote will be taken. The appointments of Katie Berger as Child Care worker for our nursery ministry and of Steve Quinlan as our Representative for the Sanctuary redesign project were gratefully noted. We also celebrated Pastor Melissa’s plans to take part in an Old Testament Preaching Panel at Princeton Theological Seminary, and to assist in the development of a new Certificate in Theology and Ministry, also at PTS. Laurie Bleickardt was formally released from the ministry of Deacon at her request.

The meeting concluded with sharing of concerns for individuals and the community and prayers for those experiencing difficulties in their lives.

The current Session comprises: Rev. Melissa A. Martin (Moderator), Ian Burrow (Clerk of Session), Bonnie Altieri (2024), Chris Cox (2025), Becky Ludeke (2025), Doug McCleery (2023), Ruth Mortensen (2025), Molly Peterson (2023), and Sandy Sherrard (2024). Please continue to hold them in prayer as they seek to discern God’s will for this congregation and community, and do not hesitate to contact any of us with suggestions, concerns or questions.

Ian Burrow

Fall Lunch & Learn: Gender, Sexuality, and Faith

Our Lunch and Learn series for Fall 2022 will be “Gender, Sexuality, and Faith.” Please stick around after church on Sundays for lunch and a discussion-based class exploring these important issues in the life of the church. This Lunch and Learn series will take place on select Sundays from 12:00pm-1:30pm in the Choir Room. Below please find the course schedule and an overview of what’s in store.

October 2: “Setting the Table” 

A come-as-you-are, non-judgmental space for introductory conversation and education about queer identities, faith, and the life of the church. 

October 16: “Sharing Our Stories” 

A panel discussion to explore the experiences of queer folks and others in the church.

October 23: “Biblical Interpretation Around Gender and Sexuality”

Rev. William Stell, a Ph.D. candidate in Religion at Princeton University, will walk us through a history of Biblical interpretation as it pertains to LGBTQ+ identities.

October 30: “Biblical Foundations: The Clobber Passages”

Rev. Dr. Eric Barreto, Associate Professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary, will explore the Biblical texts that historically have been used to justify prejudice against queer people. 

November 13: “Biblical Foundations: Queer Characters in the Bible”

Rev. Dr. Lindsey Jodrey, a New Testament scholar who works at Princeton Theological Seminary, will discuss queer characters in the Biblical text and what they might teach us today.

November 20: “More Chairs at the Table”

A conversation about where we go from here.

All are welcome - Join us!

If you enjoy lunch out and/or seeing a new movie at the theater, join us! We will gather at HPC to carpool at 12:20 on Monday, October 10. Our first stop will be The Peasant Grill (84 E. Broad St.) for a 12:30 lunch. After we will go to a movie at Montgomery Cinemas (1325 US-206, Skillman). If you can't make one or the other, join for what you can. If you don't want to carpool, meet us there. No reservations are necessary! The movie will be chosen based on availability that week and included in an email. Depending on the movie time, the lunch time could be adjusted slightly. If you would like to be added list for updates, email Lucy.

Blessing of the Animals - All Creatures Great & Small

On Tuesday, October 4, from 4:30 to 5:30pm, bring your pet to church for the Blessing of the Animals. We will gather together to thank God for our furry, fuzzy, scaly, or feathered friends, and all that they have to teach us about the God who made a covenant with all creation. This longstanding Christian tradition hearkens back to St. Francis of Assisi, who famously loved all nature and all creatures. As a service component of this event, we will also be collecting donations of supplies to support the Mercer County Wildlife Center. Click here for a wish list of items to donate.

Member Care Meetup

Did you know you have special HPC “peeps” who are praying for you? They’re your Member Care deacons and elder. On September 25th, the Member Care Meet-Up will be a time for you to meet them, plus other congregation members in your group, and find out more. After worship, please come to Fellowship Hall to learn where your group is meeting, in and around the church. Just come eat and meet -- nothing you need to bring. We’ll do some activities to get acquainted, and think about how we care for one another. Fun activities and lunch for youth and children will be led in Fellowship Hall.

Our Seminary Interns

Above are pictures of our four seminarians and books that have helped form their spiritual lives (see below for more info about each book). All these books will be available in the HPC Library (located in the education wing) on Sunday! Check them out.

Andy Hall - Student Pastor for Programming

Andy Hall is a second-year Master of Divinity student at Princeton Theological Seminary. After earning his bachelor's and his JD from the University of Arizona, Andy passed the bar and practiced law for six years, primarily in the field of immigration. Most recently, he served as a chaplain intern at Princeton House Behavioral Health, where he provided spiritual care to adults struggling with mental illness and addiction. After seminary, Andy hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible and become a pastor and a professor. He is happily married to Chelsea, with whom he co-founded an anti-human-trafficking nonprofit called Southern Arizona Against Slavery. They have two sons--Isaiah (6) and Amos (3). Andy is ordained as a deacon and as a ruling elder in the PC(USA), and is also a candidate for ordination as a teaching elder through National Capital Presbytery.

One book that has had a significant impact on my faith was Peter Rollins' How (Not) to Speak of God. Rollins counsels a distinctly postmodern humility with respect to our theology--or, as he puts it, "believing in God while remaining dubious concerning what one believes about God (a distinction that fundamentalism is unable to maintain)."

Lauren Ghighi - Student Pastor with the Hopewell Youth Collective

My name is Lauren Ghighi. I grew up in Dallas, Texas where I lived with my parents, one younger sister, and a few cats. Yes, I’m a cat person. I am a life-long Presbyterian whose involvement in the church and the youth group as a child drew me towards the ministry I pursue today. I attended Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina for my undergrad where I majored in religion and education. I enjoy running, hiking, camping, and most things involving natural creation. My love for cooking and baking comes from my Italian grandparents, and my love of plants and gardening comes from my aunt and uncle in Kansas. Family is very important to me, and I look forward to becoming part of this church family as well! 

Wresting with Rest was formative for my spiritual journey because it reshaped how I view and practice rest and Sabbath. Sabbath and rest are gifts, not something we can ever deserve, but as a form of grace given to us by God. This concept is counterintuitive to how we view rest as a society, particularly in the culture that young people exist in, but it is important to reorient rest and give ourselves the grace to Sabbath.

Ruth Amadio - Student Pastor for Church Administration

My name is Ruth Amadio! I am a second year MDiv/MACEF student at Princeton Theological Seminary, and a member of HPC. I am so excited to be interning at HPC this year and learning more about the administrative work of pastoral ministry, including learning about church finances, planning meetings, and more. Before coming to seminary, I majored in Psychology and Conflict Management at Kent State University in Ohio. I grew up near Akron, Ohio and have been enjoying getting to explore New Jersey. In my free time, I love listening to or making music, cross stitching, or hiking. I would love to hear suggestions for good hiking trails around the area! I am so excited to learn from this church community over the next year! 

About the book I chose: I read Everybody Always by Bob Goff during college as part of my role as a student leader of the college ministry group I participated in. While reading this book, I began to realize that ministry can manifest in many different ways, at times you might not expect. I discovered just how important my majors would be for pastoral care, and how interested I was in practical theology.

Emily Knoth - Student Pastor of Children’s Ministry

Hi, y’all! My name is Emily Knoth and I’m a 3rd year student pursuing a dual degree (a Masters in Divinity and a Masters in Christian Education and Formation) at Princeton Theological Seminary. I’m from Springboro, Ohio, but spent 5 years in Columbus, Ohio while pursuing my undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education and then while completing my first year at the seminary (digitally, of course). I love going on runs, meeting new people, reading, and eating ice cream. I’m passionate about the spiritual lives of children, being a good neighbor, and intergenerational learning. I can’t wait to continue to get to know everyone this coming year! 

Jan Richardson’s Circle of Grace is book of blessings that has shaped my spiritual journey as it taught me how to bless myself and others as a way of connecting myself to God. It has been a consistently reliable resource for me as I often find myself feeling scattered or overwhelmed, and need to find a way to re-center.

Your Session at Work, 8/22

After a summer break, which included an evening retreat at the Manse on July 20th,  Session resumed its regular (or “stated”) meetings schedule on August 31st with a two and half hour meeting. There were many items important for the life of this congregation on the agenda, with significant decisions being made.

Session:

• Endorsed the application of Tori Paquette to the Presbytery of the Coastlands to move from Inquirer to Candidate for Ministry of Word and Sacrament.  Session was highly impressed by Tori’s application and will be formally supporting her in this next stage of her journey.  Doug McCleery will continue to be her liaison.

• Accepted the formal termination of Montgomery Ministries: a ministry of this congregation which started in 2003 and was a faithful witness in Montgomery.

• Determined to proceed with paving work at the Manse and in front of the Creative Connections Play School entrance, using monies from the Memorial Funds and the Building Contingency Fund. VA Construction of Lawrenceville will be the contractors.

• Agreed to contract with Jersey Art Stained Glass Studio for the renovation of the side aisle windows in the sanctuary for $77,700.  It is hoped that this work will be completed in March/April of 2023.

• Agreed to enter into contract review and negotiations with Baxter Construction for the Sanctuary Renovation Project for an adjusted estimated cost of $579,462.

• Authorized the Sanctuary Taskforce and the Personnel Committee to solicit, interview and hire a candidate for the position of Owner’s Representative for the Sanctuary Renovation Project.  This person will be the primary point of contact between the church, the project architect, and the contractor.  The expected cost of this part-time position is $10,400.

• Noted that tithes and offerings (the monies that pay for the ministry and mission of the church) are $17,000 behind projected budget for the period June-August 2022.

• Noted that limited final additional distributions from the Sharipen Estates are expected in the coming months.

• Approved the job description for the position of Nursery Worker, and authorized the Pastor to hire a person who meets the qualifications.  This part-time position chiefly involves “providing a safe and fun space for children ages 0-3” during Sunday worship.  Estimated cost is $2500 for 12 months.

• Formally adopted three policies (Conflict of Interest, Harassment and Discrimination, and Child Youth and Vulnerable Adult Protection) presented by the Personnel Committee.  These policies are part of the comprehensive Personnel Policy Document prepared by the Personnel Committee.  Session will review and approve the remainder of this very important document at the next stated meeting.  Session warmly thanks the Personnel Committee for their hard and diligent work,

• Received with thanks a gift of $7000 from Creative Connections Play School.

• Continued to discuss the revised ministry structure, and particularly the charge of the new Programming Ministry and educational offerings planned for the Fall.

• Masking Policy.  In response to requests, Session reviewed current practices and policies for masking as part of continuing efforts to address the continuing Covid epidemic.  The church’s revised policy to align the HPC masking practice with the current NJ Department of Health recommendations based on COVID-19 Weekly Surveillance report.

Specifically, revising our current statement as follows:

‘As it pertains to indoor worship, for the foreseeable future, HPC will use the New Jersey Department of Health | Communicable Disease Service | COVID-19 Weekly Surveillance Reports (nj.gov) to guide our decision making regarding the need for masking. When the Community Level is reported as “High”, masks will be required indoors.  We remain vigilant about masking on our education wing on Sundays, when our children are in nursery.’

The current Session comprises: Rev. Melissa A. Martin (Moderator), Ian Burrow (Clerk of Session), Bonnie Altieri (2024), Chris Cox (2025), Becky Ludeke (2025), Doug McCleery (2023), Ruth Mortensen (2025), Molly Peterson (2023), and Sandy Sherrard (2024).  Please continue to hold them in prayer as they seek to discern God’s will for this congregation and community.

Ian Burrow

Montgomery Ministries Final Report

Why are we here? Why did God put us here? Why do Christians go to church? Why did they establish churches in the first place? I’m not going to answer those questions—most churches have mission statements and there are thousands of theologians in print over many years who have answered them. But I certainly thought about these questions when I began this attempt to describe Montgomery Ministries (MM.)

Why did Michael Prewitt start it in 2005? What has MM been doing over the years since then? How did we grow from seeking purpose (Got Purpose? was Michael’s slogan for MM flyers and cards) to spirit-filled prayer, to those Holy Spirit nudges to give aid—spiritually or otherwise— when we can and to knowing we can?

I can give you a brief history, but really want to answer the more important question: what has MM meant to those who have been part of it? Some of us will answer that as we see it in our own lives.

After the brief history, the individual stories are in alphabetical order.

A Brief History

The late Michael Prewitt, M.Div., an associate pastor at Hopewell Presbyterian Church (HPC), started MM in 2005 in Montgomery Township (which was without a Presbyterian church) with Sunday worship in the middle school library. The small congregation gradually grew to 30 or so regular attendees including one or two seminary students. Michael was loved by all, and his sermons and ministry to us were a gift from God.

In 2007, after summer services in a church in Hillsborough because the school library was unavailable, attendance decreased, and we met in Michael’s office rooms instead. In 2009 the Presbytery required Michael to find another church that could pay him, as he had been pastoring for several months without taking a salary. The core group decided to continue renting Michael’s offices, one room of which became our sanctuary. Michael was an inspired and inspiring preacher. We missed him, his sermons and his Bible studies. But we carried on.

The group would repeatedly swell and shrink over the years. Many came because we were small, and they were searching for spirituality in their lives in a safe place. Some, refreshed, would go back to the churches that had nurtured them as children. We were a conduit.

From our web site, closed in 2017:

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. People seeking to fill a spiritual hunger have found comfort and fulfillment here and have become part of our loving and supportive fellowship that feels like a family.

After Michael left we had Lynn Rubier-Capron as our preacher and part time pastor. Thereafter we had several other volunteer preachers including Nancy Curtis, Kim Copeland, several students from Princeton Seminary, Barb Pauley and Dick Scheetz from HPC and finally our faithful lay preacher Christopher.

Alan’s Story

Montgomery Ministries opened their hearts to me the moment I walked in the door. It gave me an opportunity to go deeper in my spiritual journey. I also got a chance to lead a little. I am very grateful for my time spent as part of MM!!

Andy’s Story

(Andy was our music director, keyboardist extraordinaire, scripture go-to-guy and treasurer for most of MM’s existence.)

Angie’s Story The Gift of Montgomery Ministries

When I first found Montgomery Ministries, I was sad and troubled and feeling “lost”. My first experience with this church fellowship, was in the library of the Middle School, with Rev. Michael Prewitt pastoring his flock of about 30 or more people. The group was very welcoming, and the pastor was very easy to talk with and even convinced me to share “my story” in a worship service. Looking back, I am still in disbelief that I was able to do that, being so new to this church group and basically shy in large or new groups.

However, it was not until we moved to our small “house church in an old warehouse/office building,” that I began to feel a real part of Montgomery Ministries. Immediately I was encouraged to join their Bible Study and then the Worship Planning group, and then the choir! And then even to sing in an ensemble of three!

Here, I felt secure. Here, I felt safe. And here, I started to share my heart.

Here even, I could shed tears, and risk being vulnerable. Here I felt accepted. And most importantly, here I began to find God in a deeper sense and began to form a personal relationship with Jesus.

I liked our humble settings that seemed like Jesus would prefer. One of our two rooms was used as an inviting and comfy Bible Study and fellowship room and the other as a sanctuary with a small altar table, keyboard, baptismal glass bowl on a mosaic table, folding chairs and an old, very faded, very large couch in the back of the room.

Our numbers continued to decrease as some wished a more traditional larger setting. Thus, we began to focus on the people around us who were hurting and seeking a welcoming nurturing safe place to come and seek God and friendship. We began to evolve into an earnest discipleship, actively seeking to share God’s love and fellowship. The people who gravitated to our small intimate form of worship and fellowship, needed to feel accepted and loved and encouraged.

Some came for a short time, others stayed longer. A core of ten or fewer committed to moving to another building with four rooms when our building sustained water damage. These new rooms we fondly named “The Upper Rooms”. Here we could create a “kitchen” area, and an 3 eating area for a bigger group to eat and fellowship, a larger sanctuary, and a very inviting Bible Study room with 5 large bookcases, sofa, and comfy chairs. A lot of heartfelt sharing and praying happened in this room!

Looking back, over the years I was a part of MM, from 2008 until the pandemic changed our circumstances, I am remembering many wonderful, blessed events. We had 4 baptisms: A toddler baptized by Rev. Kim Copeland; a toddler, Eva Riley, baptized by Rev. Nancy Curtis; Sep, a young man, baptized by Rev. Mike Capron; Laura Warren, a member and elder of Montgomery Ministries, baptized by Rev. Lynn Capron. We held a small outdoor memorial service for Kesner, fiancé of Kim Copeland. We had several Thanksgiving meals with guests from Good News Home. Seders were also held as well as yearly Christmas services with caroling, nativity drama and dinner for Good News Home women.

Many times, members of Montgomery Ministries, became involved in personal 1-1 relationships and then brought them to our church family for sharing of our Faith, accepting them with our love and encouragement, and sometimes financial support. We encouraged a young single woman through her pregnancy and preschool years of her daughter’s life. I vividly remember holding her precious newborn infant in my arms a few hours after her birth. We also remember Eva’s baptism in our sanctuary, with toddler Eva standing beside her mom while Rev. Nancy Curtis officiated in such a warm welcoming way. We also remember helping her find and secure an apartment. During difficult times, they stayed at my home, and I fondly remember dying Easter eggs with Eva as a toddler, and even doing laundry.

One event made a big change in my life. Rev. Lynn Capron invited me to attend a conference entitled The Church and Addiction held in Edison. There I met “Miss Ernestine” who was director of Good News Home, a residential Christian treatment center for women with addictions. I was so impressed with this ministry that I could not rest until I had visited this center and found myself volunteering and assigned to teach a weekly 12-Step with a strong Christian focus. And 15 years later I am still teaching this class though now using Zoom. I really feel God called me to this ministry and it has blessed many women including myself to attain and maintain recovery. MM was quick to recognize the value and God led ministry at Good News Home and began supplying Bibles and study and devotional materials. In addition, the church formed a personal relationship with the women by inviting them to special events and worship services, as well as mentoring and encouraging some individuals during a time that they most needed it.

The conference, Church and Addiction, also was a testament to how God works. There I met Clara from Newark, who gave me her business card. Two years later when I was conducting a twelve-step leaders’ workshop, I “found” Clara’s card and invited her to attend. I believe this was definitely a God-ordained “incident”! Clara brought three other women and that is how we met Zakiyyah.

MM was blessed with many volunteer pastors and seminary interns, and lay teachers and preachers. We especially remember Rev. Zakiyyah who learned about us from a conference she attended. Zakiyyah spent some weekends with us preaching and mentoring us and some of the Good News Home women. I especially remember this woman of God, telling her story and preaching God’s message barefoot, and having everyone in the room kneeling before their 4 chairs in confessional prayer! My granddaughter later revealed this experience changed her life regarding chronic anxiety! Zakiyyah also mentored some of the Good News Home women when they were visiting the same weekend. Zakiyyah understood them and interfaced with them in compelling life-changing ways.

Zakiyyah told her story that as a young mother of three she became very ill with a terminal diagnosis. She prayed to God that if he let her live until her children were grown, she would give her whole life to His Service. She recovered to her physicians’ amazement, and she kept her promise and studied while working and raising her family and became an ordained minister. She preached with her life, witnessing on her doorstep and the streets of Newark, warning drug dealers away from her neighborhood, as they knew she was watching, and PRAYING.

God kept His promise. All of Zakiyyah’s children grew into adulthood, the youngest just graduated from college when Zakkiyah became critically ill agin. Sadly, even after MM had helped Zakiyyah secure a liver transplant, her body rejected it. When we visited her in the hospital, and when we called her as she spent her last days under the care of hospice, she would reply to our question: “How are you doing Zakiyyah?” …. She would reply in weak yet vibrant voice: “Growing in the Lord, Growing in the Lord.”

Four of us attended her Memorial Service in Newark, singing one of her favorite songs, and sharing our memories of her time with us at Montgomery Ministries. She will always be remembered by her last words to us: “Growing in the Lord, Growing in the Lord.” Her succinct powerful testimony “Growing in the Lord” is also a very accurate way to sum up the years of our experience in the MM fellowship: “Growing in the Lord…. Growing in the Lord. Praise God, Growing in the Lord!”

Thank you, God for blessing MM and all who passed through our open doors.

The pandemic forced us to end our meeting in the Upper Rooms and for many months we conducted Bible Study and Worship services with Zoom. During the summer of 2021 we met for Sunday Services outdoors in Andy’s driveway and we zoomed Bible Study. When weather was too cold for outdoor gatherings some of us worshipped at Blawenburg Reformed Church and three of us joined their choir. Though we have decided not to continue the formal entity of MM, our time together has strengthened our Faith and given us many opportunities to share our Faith and God’s Word and Love with others whom God sent to us. We end our time together in the Upper Rooms but there will always be a room in our hearts and spirits that is reverently known as Montgomery Ministries and fondly called MM. And though we are now scattered out in the Lord’s service, we are still “Growing in the Lord. Praise God! Thank you, Jesus! Growing in the Lord.”

Christopher’s Story

(Christopher was our lay preacher for several years and often brought moving personal stories to his reflections on scripture.)

These are my reflections on some ten years or so with MM: Someone came up to me at the end of a 12-step meeting and invited me to a Bible Study. For the first time in my life, I couldn’t think of a good reason not to go. I was aware of the spirit 5 world but had no working knowledge of Jesus and his companions, so the timing was perfect. I took to Christianity like the proverbial duck to water. The image that followed me in those days was the dovetail, a kind of God-incidence or synchronicity. I loved everything about the church, from the music to the careful exegesis of sacred texts. So it was with a degree of pride that I agreed to preach on Sunday mornings, something I never would have imagined for myself in my life preceding MM. My background in writing and performance prepared me for creating and delivering these sermons to our small but passionate gatherings.

Everyone in the church excelled at some aspect of worship. Everyone was on an equal footing. Sharing my reflections with the congregation allowed me to engage with scripture in a manner that was living and vital. Frequently I would make a mistake regarding God’s word and be taken to task (gently.) This was a crash course in Christianity and I loved every minute of it. The spirituality I have encountered as a result of my participation in MM has given birth this past year to unprecedented artistic endeavor. I believe in the kinship between creativity and spirituality and have produced a plethora of drawings inspired by my faith.

I will miss this church family, but I have faith I will be taken to the next level

Clara’s Story

When I think of Montgomery Ministries I think of how kind the members are; their willingness to help others; how they have the Agape Love for people. And most of all as a church they are willing to go the extra mile. They are a loving and caring ministry.

Georgie’s Story

I am happy to recall some special memories I hold dear. One is the weekly singing of song selections. I continue to be a member of a Choral Group to this day. Another is the weekly Bible studies. I just loved the gathering during the week as well as Sunday services with all the members of the MM Group. Who could forget the amazing meals contributed towards by all of us? An amazing experience for me which will most likely never be repeated, sadly. My sincere love to all.

Gina’s Story

I am forever indebted to HPC and the people who mentored me as a new born-again Christian but felt called to the “mission field” a year after MM started. I liked the smallness of the group, though I’m not sure why. (I also liked that it was a 10-minute drive from my house with plenty of parking.) After Michael left, there was certainly a lot for the core group of 5 or 6 to do. We were it—deacons, elders, choir, pianist/music leader, janitors, sometime preachers, Bible study leaders. The bulletins for our Sunday services were my task. This became a couple or more hours of worship each week for me as I searched for or wrote prayers and found online pictures for bulletin covers.

I learned a lot at HPC about what it means to be a Christian, but I had a lot more to learn at MM—patience, tolerance, that I am a sinner, repentance, forgiveness. The list could go on but ends with Love. I suppose in a small group these encounters with yourself and others happen more readily, like in a family. (I couldn’t hide behind others in pews. We didn’t have pews. We sat in a circle or square.)

I grew in my walk with Jesus while at MM, having the space and time to search for and practice Christian meditation. I shared some of my experience with the group in an occasional sermon or Bible study as others did as well. The feedback and encouragement were important.

While attending MM, Angie and I trained as Stephen Ministers with a wonderful group of HPC women. This training extended over several weeks. Then I was assigned to a woman whom I visited weekly or biweekly, reading the Bible with her, answering questions. This, as well as the next assignment I had, caused me to grow in faith and confidence in my ability to share that faith—open my mouth to say I believe this—and to encourage and empathize. I hope these two women appreciated me half as much as I appreciated them and my time with them.

I can’t remember or write those things I do remember because it would make this report too long. And I want you to read about these others’ remembrances.

Kim’s Story

What a beautiful season of growth it was for me to be a part of this ministry. The mission on the website first drew me in—that everyone was a minister, no gift more important than the next. This was such a beautiful mirror of what God’s kingdom must be like. I’m grateful for In His Steps and first being exposed to the 12-Steps through a Christian lens. I’m also so very thankful for Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest. This book was gifted to me when I joined and I’ve shared it with many friends. Also, one year on my birthday Margaret stood up from her wheelchair, walked over to me and prayed. This felt miraculous. And also the memorial service for Kesner, the replanting of hope and Angie’s beautiful sermon.

Worship planning and preaching, seated in blue jeans and sandals, was new and special for me. And the love that you shared with the women’s center and friends that I invited to worship, like Talithea. Such beautiful hospitality. Small in number but generous in giving love and filled with the Holy Spirit.

Laura’s Story

Where do I start with the miracles of MM? Away from church attendance many years, in the Spring of 2007, I felt a pull to put my toe back in the water after months of participating in a 12- step program. A friend was attending MM which met at my old high school at the time, and that sounded appealing to me. I was warmly welcomed and soon was tempted to participate in the worship singing and playing my guitar at a Mother’s Day service that I encouraged my nonchurch going teens to attend in lieu of Mother’s Day gifts/cards.

I can't believe that happy memory was a first of many as the Holy Spirit worked with me, I proceeded slowly to come to planning meetings, Bible studies, Sunday worship, gradually feeling drawn to commence reading the Bible in its entirety from the beginning, bringing other 12-step friends to church and eventually tithing. In approximately 14 years, I've been so grateful to have been blessed with the pastoring of the late founding pastor Michael Prewitt, the interim volunteer and guest pastors, seminary students, and lay preachers who served with us after the church was no longer able to support a pastor financially.

I feel closer to God and have grown more personally and spiritually with this small family-like church community, in conjunction with years of the 12-step program, than in any other time in my life.

We have been a prayerful and musical group and with the usual differences of opinion we learned we could love our way through with extra effort and God's amazing grace. There were baptisms, (including mine), weddings, funerals, memorials, providing for a well In Liberia, becoming a compassion sponsor, helping Sep, a friend with special needs, move to a more appropriate and much better location, and hosting/ sharing Christ's love with groups of ladies from Good News Home. I've been blessed to know the importance of being very involved with a church family that loves God and with God's grace can make a difference by loving each other, our neighbor, even someone on the other side of the planet.

In conclusion, even though the pandemic stopped us from meeting in our twice relocated office, we were able to continue by zoom for over a year now, and I for one feel we will always have a unique connection to each other and be forever changed for the better from our time together at Montgomery Ministries worshipping and trusting our Lord, Jesus Christ. Praise God!

Lynn’s Story

(Rev. Mike Capron and Rev. Lynn Rubier-Capron supported MM spiritually after Michael Prewitt left and we had decided to continue MM.)

2008 is such a very long time ago, and so much has happened since Mike and I moved to Hopewell NJ. Mike received a call to be the pastor of Hopewell Presbyterian church, and I came along; not knowing if God would call me to ministry through the church, through teaching the violin, or both. It was both.

Montgomery Ministries was at a transition point, and I was touched as I heard that they needed a pastor. I knew of no other mainline church that had a similar targeted ministry for people in recovery. (MM was not targeted for people in recovery, we simply had some members in recovery, and they attracted people they knew who went on to invite others and so on.)

The Presbyterian oversight process for ministry is very thick and requires a lot of committee and Presbytery attention. Historically, these things are in place for good reason. I still remember listening to the conversation on the floor of Presbytery when we were discerning how HPC and MM would be related to each other. A seminary professor asked the group to consider ecclesiological concerns. I then had the opportunity to speak and asked the people in the room to consider that this was a unique and important opportunity for ministry in a 8 Presbyterian church, one that most main line churches would struggle to provide. The Spirit of God moved through the room and the decision was obvious. A new era of MM of began as an off-campus ministry of HPC. I was grateful that this historic link between the two could continue.

Like most small groups, MM was about relationships. Each member knew the passions and convictions of the other, each knew that their joint efforts amounted to something that was greater than each part. Each person came back again and again to the presence and action of God within and between them. MM always knew that God’s presence and action is not just about our human spirit. It is also about our bodies and how we live and thrive in body, mind and spirit through the presence and action of God.

May God continue to bless the people and the relationships that have formed through MM.

Maggie’s Story

I was not a member but a frequent visitor when I stayed with my sister, Gina Williams. I am one who benefitted from Hopewell’s undertaking! I will never forget the sweet fellowship with Jesus and the MMs in their upper rooms, and the two other facilities they occupied before that last. Thank you from one who was very blessed, and continues to be, by the sacrifices made to bring MM into His world. I love the friends I’ve made at MM!

Marty’s Story

I actually met Andy for the first time at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. He was the music director of the contemporary service. From there I transitioned with him into MM in 2006.

I like to think that Andy was responsible for my renewed interest in playing guitar again! Before I met him, I hadn't played guitar in 12 years! MM started out as a music influenced Church, but it ended up being so much more as we grew.

Our group was small but very powerful in the Holy Spirit. Our core group was the most unlikely of individuals to bond the way we did. All of us were from completely different backgrounds, and yet, when we met for Bible Study, or Church Services, we came together as one, to worship and pray. Each of us had special gifts and talents that the Holy Spirit used to help strengthen and mature us in our Christian walk of faith in Jesus Christ. Our relationship with Jesus has deepened. I am so grateful and feel fortunate to have been able to be part of such a special group. Through this group and through the help and teaching of the many mentors and Spiritual leaders, I feel my Faith has increased exponentially. I truly believe “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13) He is my rock and my salvation! (from Psalm 62:6)

Our group has made many journeys together on Bible Study Night as we delved into the Scriptures and witnessed God answer many prayers. The most exciting and rewarding of the journeys was when our group prayed through the Book of Revelation! I believe it took almost 4 months to read, pray, and share with one another our wonderful discoveries of this Book. 9 I truly believe that our small group touched many lives across many borders! I believe that, as sad as it is to see it end, that our journeys are just beginning. We all will have MM to help us remember how our faith was strengthened, and it will help us persevere! (Tim4:16)

I hold the Bible close to my heart and am learning from it daily. I try to share it with whoever would lend an ear. God Bless.

(Marty, modest as usual, neglects to mention that he has led most of our Bible studies, including the months of Revelation. He is still leading us on Thursday nights on Zoom with prayer, Psalms, scripture to study, and wisdom.)

Nancy’s Story

I was with MM shortly after it began. I had left another congregation in Montgomery and was looking for preaching and teaching that were Biblically true. I was hooked. Michael's sermons were inspiring. The music was beautiful. And the enthusiasm of the Princeton Theological Seminary students was contagious. One of the students created a "youth group" for my son and his friend.

When MM shifted I felt that I needed to move on also.

But my journey brought me back in the role of a once a month preacher. The small group meeting in the upper room encouraged me and gave me the opportunity to challenge myself and grow.

I treasure my time in the Upper Room and my time as a congregant with Michael. All have helped me grow as a Chaplain and a Minister.

Ophelia’s Story

Hi, my name is Ophelia Nabwe. I started attending the Montgomery. Ministries church through my client Margaret Page, that I worked for as a care provider. Mrs. Page was a member of the MM church, and she talked to me about it, and asked that I go with her to church. My first visit was very nice; all the members was very nice, and I felt welcome. Since then I went to church every Sunday. I said thanks to Mrs. Page for encouragement and I love the MM church, because they treat their members like family. They will pray for all the members, and even have Bible study with you and talk to you about God. What the MM family has been in my life, I can't express how much love and support I have had from the MM family. I am from a country called Liberia. When I got ready to send for my family from Liberia, the MM church helped me a lot to get them here and now my family of five are here, and we all are part of the MM family. The MM church has also provided safe drinking water for people in my country Liberia, and they are all very grateful to the MM church for such a wonderful job, of giving them safe water to drink. My family and I are very grateful to be a part of this wonderful ministry.

These are my thoughts about the MM church. Thanks to all of my MM family for the wonderful prayers, encouragement, love and support they have for their members. I pray that God will 10 continue to bless and protect each of us as long as we live so that we can pass it on to others in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Renée’s Story

I am a life that was changed from the support Montgomery Ministries gave me during my pregnancy and the early years after Eva’s birth. Angie invited me to live in her home for a while. You helped me find and secure an apartment and helped with rent. It’s hard to be a single mom. You accepted and encouraged me in many ways through really hard times. Holy Spirit was tangible when we worshipped together. A life was changed. A life was saved. I will never forget you all. Love, Renée and Eva

Ruth’s Story

(While Ruth was with us, she gained confidence to study to be a care-giver and is now doing that work. She was raised a Roman Catholic and has since joined a church of that tradition.)

I remember when we did the Christian 12-steps with Lynn. And I am thankful for Angie suggesting I write my notes on index cards for school.

Sandra’s Story

Our pastor was Kim, (at that time) and you took me personally by the hand and guided me, with all my doubts & fears. I didn't believe much, and you all spiritually helped me not only believe in it but also that I was worthy of a better life. You all gave me hope, when I had lost it all, loved me, until I could love myself and ultimately helped me to become a better person for myself so that I can give my life experiences, strength, hope, & inspiration to others. I have never forgotten all you have done for me, and I continue to spread my spirituality to others. Helping others truly helps me in all aspects of my life.

Montgomery Ministries Timeline from HPC Clerk of Session

May 2003: First report to HPC Session about the proposed ministry. Presbytery of New Brunswick has agreed that HPC will take the lead in establishing the ministry. Discussions had evidently been taking place before this. Correspondence and documents have not been researched.

June 2003: Special Report presented to HPC Session by Kathy Strode, Curt Wilbur, Michael Prewitt and Pastor Ginny Smith. There is no physical report in the Session packet, but Session approved a three-year financial plan, and identified Michael Prewitt as Designated Associate Pastor and Charles Hartwick as Parish Associate. Office space was to be rented on Route 206 in Montgomery, and Montgomery High School was to allow use of their cafetorium for services.

April 2004: communion is being held every Sunday (location not identified).

2005: In the Annual report, Michael Prewitt notes that he became Organizing Pastor in January (installed and ordained Jan 18), and that this month marked the formal beginning of the ministry. A Christcare ministry “Together” led by Janis Wilbur meets on Thursdays at the MM offices.

No reports in HPC annual reports for 2006-2008. Services are taking place at Montgomery High School. Some HPC members are attending. Doug Robbins recalls attendances of around 30 people in this period.

2009 Regina Williams reports in the HPC annual report. The ministry has established a Christian Women’s 12-step program. Elders from HPC have been attending services.

2010 Regina Williams annual report. Lyn Rubier Capron is serving as volunteer pastor. 12-step program continues. 2 bible studies per week.

2011 Regina Williams annual report. Very similar to 2010.

2012-2018 no entries in HPC Annual Reports.

2013 Andy Thurm, Angie Rebert, Lauren Warren, and Gina Williams appointed HPC Elders (class of 2015).

2014 July Michael Prewitt death.

2019 Regina Williams annual report. 12-step program now based in Flemington. Two families are being financially supported. Thursday night Bible study. Nancy Curtis Chaplain once per month. Lay preacher.

2020 Regina Williams annual report. In-person meetings stopped May 20th (COVID). Meetings over Zoom 4x per week including Thursday Bible study. 12-step in Flemington continues. Providing assistance in local community.

More information is probably in issues of The Messenger and in Session packets for this period. These have not been reviewed.

Ian Burrow, Clerk of Session

June 15th 2022

HPC Family Camp Out & BBQ October 8-9

Sign up today! click here or cut and paste this link: https://forms.gle/ktZ1WYsDgtR2f4TH7

We’re hoping you can join us for our first HPC family campout and barbecue at Washington Crossing State Park! If you’d like to join us but need some equipment (tent, sleeping bag etc.) let us know on the sign-up form. Driving directions and a list of what to bring are below. If you can’t stay overnight, join us for the barbecue and campfire!!

Saturday

Pre-campout activities (please sign up if you want to join us)

Both activities will begin at the campsite ‘A’ parking area. See driving derections below. Bring your camping gear with you so you can set up went we return.

Bike ride: 1:00pm - Led by Anne Hayton

For bicycling enthusiasts, this is an easy-paced, family-friendly, approximately 7- mile bike ride. We begin by bicycling south along the Delaware & Raritan (D&R) Canal Towpath, crossing over into Pennsylvania using the NEW and amazing bicycle bridge at Scudders Falls, then returning along the equally beautiful Delaware and Lehigh (D&L) Canal Towpath, back towards Washington Crossing State Park. The paths are generally level (except for a manageable elevation change for the bridge crossing) and consist of easy-riding, hard-packed soil or small gravel. For everyone's safety and enjoyment, those interested in participating in this bike ride should come prepared with a bicycle in good and sound working order, a bicycle helmet and water bottle. Please contact Anne Hayton for any questions on this planned bicycling event.

Hike: 1:00pm - Led by Rich Armington

Join us for an easy hike to the only local overlooks on the Delaware River. The area around Goat Hill has roots dating back to the American Revolutionary War. In fact, George Washington himself stood at this precipice to view the river, serving as a strategic asset during combat. Moreover, he oversaw the arrangements for the attack on Trenton from the spot. Of course, British General Charles Cornwallis also used this overlook to view the colonies’ activity up and down the river. This is a 2.5 mile loop hike where we will visit 4 overlooks, including ‘Washington’s Rock’ and Goat Hill overlook with a great view of Lambertville. We’ll meet at the campsite ‘A’ parking lot in Washington Crossing Park and then carpool to the trail head. Please come prepared with a water bottle, appropriate clothing for a fall hike, sturdy hiking shoes and small backpack. And bring rain gear if the weather is iffy. Questions about the hike? Please contact Rich Armington.

Campout & Barbecue (please sign up if you want to join us for either)

Campout Arrival: 3:30 – 5:30pm

Plan to arrive after 3:30pm. Park in the lot and bring your gear into the camp site. It’s only a short walk so no need to get fancy with packing. There will be folks around if you need help moving your gear or setting up. Afternoon games include corn hole, bocce, Frisbees, and maybe croquet.

Dinner: 6:00pm

Bring a side dish, and if you have any food allergies or preferences, note them on the sign-up form. We’ll provide the main dish.

Campfire: 7:30ish

Join us for a good old fashion campfire! There’ll be songs, skits, and stories. If you have something to add to the program, contact Shari Adair. If there’s a fire ban, we’re hoping to get approval for a propane fire pit. S’mores and Ice cream for desert – who can resist!!

Sunday

Breakfast: 8:00am - For campers only

Doug Sargent and Amy Rice will have a special treat for those of us who camp overnight! Oh yeah, very important, coffee and tea will be available before breakfast!

Sunday Service: 10:30am at Greene Pavilion in Washington Crossing Park

Greene Grove at the park has a large pavilion and restrooms. The Sunday service will be in the park rain or shine! We will try to Zoom the service, but this is dependent on the quality of cellular service in the park.

Pot Luck Picnic Lunch: After the service at Greene Pavilion in Washington Crossing Park

Please bring a dish for the potluck lunch immediately following the service.

Bike Ride and Hike: After lunch (about 1:00pm) (Please sign up if you want to join us) These are the same bike ride and hike a Saturday. We wanted to give folks a chance to do each. See descriptions above.

Driving Directions Campsite: Washington Crossing Site ‘A’

Site ‘A’ is behind the soccer fields off of Bear Tavern Rd. From the Pennington Circle take Washington Crossing Pennington Rd. toward PA. Turn right on Bear Tavern Rd. and then take the next left into the soccer fields. Follow the road as far as you can until it ends in the parking lot. Site ‘A’ is at the far end of the lot.

Greene Grove: From the Pennington circle take Washington Crossing Pennington Rd. toward PA. Pass Bear Tavern Rd. The park entrance will be on your right. Enter the park and follow the signs to Greene Grove

What to bring:

Sorry, the park doesn’t allow pets at the campsite.

Camping out: Tent * Sleeping bags (30 deg. rating or lower) * Sleeping pads (or cots) * Warm clothes for evening and morning * Rain gear * Camp chairs * Flashlight * Drinking cup * Water bottle. (We’ll supply water and drinks, but it’s wise to have your own water bottle.)

Dinner & Campfire Only:  Camp chairs * Warm clothes for evening campfire * Drinking cup

Bike Ride:  Bike (make certain it’s in good condition) * Helmet * Water bottle

Hike:  Sturdy shoes * Small Backpack * Water bottle * Rain gear (if weather is iffy) * Warm clothes (weather dependent)

Summer Session Update

On July 20, our new session had a retreat at Pastor Melissa’s house. The members of session are: Bonnie Altieri, Chris Cox, Becky Ludeke, Doug McCleery, Molly Peterson, and Sandy Sherrard.

This retreat followed closely on the heals of a soup-fueled congregational conversation about the mission foci of the church for the 2022-23 program year. During that congregational conversation, over 30 members of the church identified the gifts God has given to HPC and dreamed about the ways in which these could be combined to build up God’s mission in our community. The hope has been to narrow our missional foci so that we can harness the power of our time, talents and treasures and make effective change as we share the love of Jesus with one anther and our wider community. Those foci that came up in conversation were: poverty, mental health, gender & sexuality, housing insecurity, food insecurity, the environment, and youth. On the following Wednesday, Session then took these and narrowed them down concluding that as a congregation during the 2022-23 year we will work to address…

• food insecurity

• mental health

• the environment

Something you might note is that this list is very similar to last years list (poverty, mental health, and the environment). One small shift was specifying “food insecurity” as opposed to “poverty.” As for the similarity to last year, Session noted that we continue to see a need in each of these areas, that we have more to learn/do—and that to make change sometimes we need to spend time working on them. These three will form and shape the way the staff and ministries plan out our education, service opportunities, worship, and mission giving.

In particular, the Generosity Ministry is eager for your input. If you know of an organization that effectively addresses one of these three foci (food insecurity, mental health, or the environment), and you would like to see HPC consider giving mission money to that organization. Fill out the form that you find on the web page linked through the button below:

In addition to determining the mission foci above, Session looks forward to supporting continued conversation and around the relationship between faith and gender & sexuality. As with the mission foci, our approach to this conversation will be firmly grounded in our church’s mission statement, which is to love like Jesus, building up our relationships with God, one another, and our community.

On top of setting the mission foci and helping to cast a vision for this next program year, session covered a lot of other ground:

• Session adopted some policies and practices to help us to work together as effectively as possible as a Session while we seek to discern God’s will for this church. 

• Session re-identified and affirmed those whom we are all called to serve, from the members and friends of this congregation (“Jerusalem”) to the local and wider communities (“Judea and Samaria”), and “to the ends of the Earth”, as commanded by Jesus in Acts 1, verse 8.

• Session resolved to create a Programming Committee which will combine the functions of the Justice and Service, Hospitality and Fellowship, Nurture and Growth and Worship ministries. In addition to helping us program around our mission foci of mental health, food insecurity, and environment, this ministry will help us brainstorm ways to learn about and talk about other topics Session has identified with your help like faith and gender and sexuality. To understand the reasoning behind this change, click here for a presentation they used. Additionally, check out this info chart of the current HPC ministries

Ian Burrow, Clerk of Session
Rev. Melissa Martin, Pastor

Lunch & Learn: Mission Focus

Last year, we sent out a survey to help identify what areas we wanted to focus on. As the Session looks ahead to this next year, we are hoping for your help on this again: should we focus on the same three? Replace one? Choose three new ones? To get your input, we are hosting a mission focus inquiry and resource analysis. This workshop is built off of the principles of “asset based community development.”

Asset Based Community Development is an approach to sustainable, community-driven development that identifies and builds upon the strengths and gifts already present within a community. Rather than focusing on what’s missing (a needs-based approach), asset mapping identifies and builds upon the latent knowledge, resources, and relationships within a community.  

This Asset Mapping Workshop will provide practical tools to imagine new opportunities and uncover the already-present passion, gifts, skills, and resources necessary to build ministries sustainably. Building upon and connecting these strengths, this workshop empowers groups to imaginatively discern their next most faithful steps.

We will be guided through this process by Pastor Melissa and Emily Wilkes, a representative from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance—an arm of the PCUSA we have partnered with to support national and international mission work. Emily facilitates connections between refugee and immigrant-led groups and Presbyterian partners to create opportunities for mutual support, learning, and organizing. She advises on best practices in forming ministries that center refugee and immigrant voices in a way that honors their experiences and perspectives. Emily is available for site visits to build relationships, learn about program needs, public policy concerns, and opportunities for collaboration.

This event will take place on July 17 from 12-1:30. A light lunch will be provided. The goal of this event is to identify 5-6 potential options which will then be narrowed down by the Session at their retreat the following week.

Garden of Grace Update

Submitted by Anne Hayton

The Garden of Grace was created by the Engaging in Justice and Service ministry last year, in support of the Chubby's Project at Aunt Chubby's Luncheonette. The Chubby's Project is a loving heart-guided, out-reach program initiated by Lyn Farrugia, co-owner of Aunt Chubby's luncheonette, to be a place of connection and support in our community. This program provides prepared meals and groceries/fresh produce to those who may be food-insecure or experiencing other forms of hardship.

2021 was the first growing season for the Garden of Grace, and an abundance of swiss chard, cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes were provided to the Chubby's Project.  

This spring and early summer, the garden was planted with swiss chard, cilantro, cucumbers, snap peas and tomatoes.  So far, we've been reaping a healthy harvest of snap peas and swiss chard. During the month of June, 3 harvests of snap peas and swiss chard were performed. The following total amounts were delivered to Aunt Chubby's luncheonette for Chubby's project: 

·         Swiss chard: 8 lbs 

·         Snap peas: 8.5lbs 

·         Cucumbers: 20, 7-8 inches: 10 lbs

In addition, the snap pea plants have been removed and during the coming week, the soil will be prepared for a mid-summer vegetable planting, likely green beans.

So far, nature has been kind with ~weekly rain. But this week it seems we're transitioning to typical NJ summer weather with hotter, drier periods.  While Bob and I handle the harvesting and general plant care (staking up tomatoes will be soon!), we rely on volunteers to periodically water during the growing season. Currently, the following people are helping with this work: 

• Liz Blankstein (Sunday) 

• Jen Stoveken (Wednesday or as needed; Jen is a parent from Creative Connections) 

• Lori Horton (Friday) 

• Joanne Tonkin (as back-up, as needed) 

If you are interested in learning more about this gardening or other community gardening efforts, please don’t hesitate to reach out. In fact, the Sharing Garden at St. Michael's preserve can always use more helping hands. Michele Downie, on behalf of Lyn, organizes many things, but is also the key coordinator for helpers at the Sharing Garden. --This past February, in addition to helping infuse more energy and talent into the Sharing Garden, Liz B. held a series of meetings to bring together key folks to improve the leadership structure. In addition, Lyn hired Michele Downie, and D&R Greenway, for the first time, hired a farmer, Lara, to direct/oversee management of the Sharing Garden. Under her direction there are many opportunities to volunteer and care for creation.

Anchor House Ride for Runaways

Many of you already know I’ll be participating in the Anchor House Ride for Runaways again this year. Starting in Charlottesville VA we’ll be riding 500 miles through Leesburg, Gettysburg and Lancaster to Pennington the week of July 10-16. And Sunday July 3 I’ll be sharing a little bit about why I do such things!

Founded in 1978 by a group of concerned citizens who wanted to help move homeless and runaway youth off the streets of Trenton and reunite them with their family, today Anchor House offers a myriad of comprehensive, life-saving programs and services to more than 1,000 youth and their families each year. Anchor House provides a safe place for run-away and at-risk youth in Trenton to live. They also provide services such as street-level intervention, drop-in facilities and educational assistance to at-risk youth. You can find more information about Anchor House by visiting their website: https://www.anchorhousenj.org/

Typically, the Ride for Runaways contributes more than $500,000 through ride sponsorship donations to Anchor House. These donations are critical for Anchor House to maintain their current level of commitment to our community. If you haven’t already, please consider sponsoring my ride this year. It’s not for me – it’s for the kids. The easiest way to do this is by visiting my page: https://anchorhouseride.rallybound.org/classic/RichArmington, or if you prefer, send me a check made out to “Anchor House Foundation” to 104 E. Prospect St, Hopewell NJ 08525.

As always, thanks for your support!

Rich Armington

HPC Calendar of Events Summer & Fall 2022

July 10, 2022 - Youth to Hopewell Museum and Lunch (12:00-2:00 PM)

July 17, 2022 - (12:00-1:00 PM) - Mission Focus Inquiry and Power Analysis

Last year, we sent out a survey to help identify what areas we wanted to focus our missional energy on, and based on your feedback, we decided we would focus on: poverty, mental health, and the environment. These three focuses helped us direct our mission giving as well as formed the foundation of our education and service projects for the year. As the Session looks ahead to this next year, we are hoping for your help on this again: should we focus on the same three? Replace one? Choose three new ones?  To get your input, we are hosting a mission focus inquiry and power analysis. We will be guided through this process by a representative from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance—an arm of the PCUSA we have partnered with to support national and international mission work. A light lunch will be provided. The goal of this event is to identify 5-6 potential options which will then be narrowed down by the Session at their retreat the following week.

 July 20, 2022 (3:00-6:00 PM) - Youth Quarry Swim Day

July 20, 2022 - Session Retreat

July 27, 2022 (7:30-9:00 PM) - Hopewell Youth Collective Leadership Meeting at Chubby’s

August 2, 2022 (8:00 AM-12:00 PM) - Sharing Garden Work Day

August 12-13, 2022 - Staff Retreat

August 14, 2022 (1:00-7:00 PM) - Youth Tubing Down the Delaware and All-Church Picnic at the Petersons

August 24, 2022 (7:30-9:00 PM) - Hopewell Youth Collective Leadership Meeting at Chubby’s

August 28, 2022 (12-2pm) - Leadership Training

Leader Training - August 28 (12-2pm)

As church members and leaders in the church, we are called to love and care for all God’s children—of every age and situation. To help us do that in a way that is consistent and caring, we are starting a training for all leaders (like elders, deacons, volunteers, interns, and staff). This is not only important to our church but it is required by our denomination. In preparation for the program year, we will be offering this training after church and over a light lunch. During this time we will go over our Child Youth and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy, our Sexual Misconduct Policy, as well as basic information about financial practice, building use, and resource management. For those who were trained on some of these policies in January, this training will include updates made to the policy based off the things we’ve learned over the last 6 months as well as a more robust conversation around how we are working to make this church a safe and welcoming space for all people. While this might sound boring, the staff is committed to making sure there will be a lot of laughter and learning. And they like to think they have a pretty decent track record for delivering on that promise.

August 31, 2022 (3:00-8:00 PM) - Youth Quarry Swim Day and BBQ

September 11, 2022 - All Church Picnic at the Quarry & Baptism of Chloe

September 18, 2022 - Kick Off (Sundae) Sunday - Ice Cream Social

Kick Off Worship & Sundae Sunday

As we start another program year together, everyone is invited for ice cream sundaes after worship in Fellowship Hall. This will not only be an opportunity for a sweet treat, to connect with church family after a fun summer, and also to learn more about the various ministries, educational opportunities, and service projects of the church. Each ministry will have a booth and a featured Sundae topping. 

September 25, 2022 - Member Care Meet-Up

When it comes to caring for folks connected to HPC, our deacons are our amazing experts. But love and care is something we are all called to do. To help us lean into this, the HPC Deacons are hosting “Member Care Meet Ups” on September 25 after church. At these meet ups, you will have the opportunity to meet the two deacons assigned to you as well as the elder. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a small group of other people from the congregation. As new relationships are forged, we hope that the network of love and care can grow! Keep your eyes peeled for more information about these meet ups—and about who your deacons are!

October 8-9, 2022 - All Church Camping Trip

November 4-6, 2022 - Meditation Retreat

November 6, 2022 - Sunday of Service

Wine & the Bible Follow Up

As we finished our program year, the Justice and Service ministry put together an opportunity for us to celebrate and learn together in partnership with the Farminary at Princeton Theological Seminary. The event was titled Wine & the Bible. To help offset the cost of amazing events like this one, please consider donating to the HPC General Fund. Costs included honorarium for our amazing teachers, the wine, and the cost of the bartender.

Just to recap this event we learned…

• How to read the Bible like wine drinkers from Rev. Dr. Lindsey Jodrey. Click here to read more of Lindsey’s reflections on the story of the Wedding at Cana.

• How to drink wine like farmers from Dr. Nate Stucky of the Farminary. Click here to learn more about the Farminary.

• How to enjoy cheese while dodging rain drops. A big thanks to Olsons Fine Foods for their generous donations!

• How to drink wine from Sandy Sherrard.

By popular demand, we are providing the names and tasting notes of the wines we shared. If you are curious about how to find some of these wines, contact Sandy Sherrard. If you need Sandy’s contact information, please reach out to the church office!

Wine List & Tasting Notes:

CVNE Cune Penedes Cava Brut (NV) – Catalonia, Spain

• CVNE (Compania Vinicola del Norte Espana) is one of the most important wine producers of Spain. Founded by the Real de Asua brothers in 1879, it remains family-owned and family-run, with the latest generation committed more than ever to making great wine in meaningful quantities.  The group currently has seven wineries in Spain’s principal wine-growing regions: CVNE, Imperial, Viña Real and Viñedos del Contino in Rioja, Roger Goulart in Penedés, Bela in Ribera del Duero, and Virgen del Galir in Valdeorras.

• Grape varieties: Xarel-lo, Macabeo, Parellada

• Pale yellow color with golden hues. A good release of tiny bubbles rising in trains to form a cheerful crown of mousse. This Cava displays fruit notes and typical nuances of aging in bottle. There is fresh acidity for balance, with a creamy texture and lingering finish. Produced using method champenoise.

Bodegas Ethereo Rias Biaxas Albarino 2020 – Galacia, Spain

• Rias Baixas' coastline is comprised of inlets reminiscent of Norway’s fjords and boasts some of Spain’s most stunning beaches and an endless supply of fresh seafood. Rías Baixas is also the birthplace of Albariño, Spain’s best known white variety. In Rías Baixas, this grape shares the same nutrient-poor but mineral-rich soils and moderate climate as other renowned white wine producing regions.

•  Bodegas Ethereo was founded in 2003 by a group of local farmers with a total of 45 hectares (111 Acres) of vineyards. Bodegas Ethereo is located in the Condado do Tea subregion of Rias Baixas, a warmer area known to produce exuberant, tropical and dense Albariños, yet this wine maintains extraordinary minerality and freshness thanks to the unique granite and slate soils in the region.

• Delicate, exquisite, dainty, elegant, graceful; this wine showcases a straw yellow bright color with notes of tropical fruits on the nose pineapple and passion fruit. The palate is citrusy with a creamy density and a long clean finish.

Bonpas 'Reserve de Bonpas' Cotes du Rhone Rouge 2020 – Rhone Valley (Southern Rhone), France

• The Rhone region in France has over 170,000 vineyard acres broken into two distinct regions. The northern region, including such regions as Hermitage, Saint-Joseph and Cote Rotie, is significantly smaller than the southern region and is noted for producing some of the world’s greatest Syrah-based wines. The southern region is significantly warmer and produces some of the world’s greatest Grenache-based wines, most notably Chateauneuf du Pape. Cotes du Rhone covers 80% of the region’s wines and about 90% are red wines, including Grenache, Carignan, Syrah, and Mourvedre.

• Located near Avignon, at the heart of the Rhone Valley, the fortified stronghold of Bonpas, from the French “Bon passage”, has watched over the safe crossing of the Durance River along the historic route that once linked Rome with Avignon. The estate marks the gateway to the southern Côtes-du-Rhône appellations and opens its gates to the discovery of the region’s terroirs.

• Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan.

• Visual: deep ruby-red. Nose: Expressive, with notes of fresh red fruit. Palate: a warm, powerful wine combining flavors of mild spices, black olives and stone fruits. Ample and supple, with velvety tannins.

• Ideally served at 16-18°C alongside grilled meats and fresh goat’s cheeses.

Schild Estate GMS 2017 (Grenache / Mourvedre / Shiraz – Barossa Valley, Australia

• Australia’s most important wine state is South Australia home of the Barossa Valley wine region. Located about 40 miles northeast of Adelaide, vines were first planted by German Lutherans and English settlers in 1847. The climate is generally warm and dry with the eastern hills offering a much cooler growing area. The most popular grape grown for white wine is Riesling, while the most popular red grape is Shiraz (Syrah).

• The Schild family (descendants of the German Lutherans) purchased their property in 1952. Today they have over 450 acres under vine, including one of the oldest blocks of Shiraz vines that date back to the late 1840’s.

• Color: Dark cherry red, ruby. Bouquet: Inviting red fruit aromas of fresh cherries, red currants and raspberries combine with some blue fruit notes upfront before a hint of stony minerality and subtle notes of pepper spice, lavender and garrigue herb emerge from behind. Palate: Vibrant red berry and raspberry fruit show early on the palate providing a pillowy, velvet like feel to the wine early on. This fruity opening envelopes a firm Mataro core driving down the middle. Some white pepper spice provides an additional layer of interest and a super fine tannin presence provides some balance, containment and focus to the fruit.

Chateau Kefraya “Les Coteaux” 2018 – Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

• The vineyards of Chateau Kefraya spread over 300 hectares of terraced slopes, 1000 meters above the Mediterranean Sea, on the foothills of Mount Barouk in the Bekaa Valley. It crosses the Yammouneh tectonic rift, source of a wide diversity of terroirs, with some geologies dating from the Jurassic and the Cretaceous period. 

• Clay-limestone, clay-chalk as well as sandy and gravelly soils compose a real mosaic of terroirs. The vines enjoy an exceptional sun exposure with no irrigation. They are mainly trellised with a planting density of 4000 vines per hectare and an average yield limited to 35 hectoliters per hectare.

• All of Kefraya’s wines are vegan. A good share of the vineyard is already organic-certified and in the near future, the whole property will acquire organic-certification. Significant variations in temperatures between day and night ensure a perfect ripening of the grapes and optimal harvest conditions.

• Named after Château Kefraya’s very first red wine, launched in 1979, Coteaux is a red wine with a proud heritage. With its slight hint of oak, it has the fruit and the freshness to be appreciated upon release or after a few years of aging. Born from a unique blend of Syrah, Marselan and Cabernet Franc, Coteaux reveals an intense nose of roasted coffee and vanilla. The wine is rich and smooth on the palate, with harmonious spicy notes of black cherry.

Read Our Annual Report

This week's worship will include the Annual Meeting. While there won't be a regular sermon, Pastor Melissa will offer a brief reflection on Mark 12:29-31 and the HPC Mission Statement. Each ministry of the church will lead us through a portion of worship, which will include a brief update about what they've been doing for the last year. To get a picture of this please check out the following:

• Annual Report (includes financial overview)

• Financial Appendix to the Annual Report

Our New Officers

Amy Rice

My name is Amy Sargent Rice and I have been a member of HPC for almost my entire life.  Having served 3 terms in Deacons many years ago, I am looking forward to rejoining to get more involved in the church after some major life changes in the past couple of years.  I am also especially excited to have my daughter, Erica, joining with me.  Through these recent changes, Matthew 19:19 has come up many times- “Love your neighbor as yourself”.  We should love our neighbors, but in order to love others we must first love ourselves.

Erica Rice

Connection: member (16 years)

Why I’m excited: I want to be able to help out even if that’s just by reaching out a couple times a month. I also love the idea of being able to get more involved with the church. 

Bible verse: Philippians 4:6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present you requests to God.”

Dave Denito

I first decided to visit Hopewell Presbyterian Church because my parents were married here in 1928.  The wonderful people and pastor are what kept me coming back.  This church truly feels like a family.  After attending, my heart changed.  You really hear the word of the Lord and it has a calming effect.  Becoming a Deacon is one of the highlights of my life.  I am blessed that the Lord, Pastor Melissa, and the Deacons would think of me for this position.  I am honored and ready to do God’s work as a Deacon.  What I a bring to the position is devotion, compassion, caring, affection and above all love. My favorite scripture verse is John 14:6-7.  Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.  If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”

Ruth Mortensen

I have served as an Elder previously and also served as the Clerk of Session.  I am really excited to serve again in that capacity.  I prayer daily for the church and the pastor and look forward to serving HPC as we move forward.  My favorite Bible verse is Psalm 100.  “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth.  Serve the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing.  Know that the Lord is God.  It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture.  Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise.  Give thanks to him; bless his name.  For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever and his faithfulness to all generations.”

Martha Camp

I've been a member of HPC since 1985, and through it my life has been enriched by connections to many wonderful people. I'm pleased to be joining the Board of Deacons to help continue its long tradition of sympathy, witness, and service to the congregation and wider community. One of my favorite Bible verses is Psalm 18:28-29, speaking directly to God and affirming his power. "For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. For by thee I have run through a troop, and by my God have I leaped over a wall."

Chris Cox

"We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
Being an elder in the Hopewell Presbyterian Church is a high calling, a unique opportunity for me to be a servant to the congregation, and an experience of spiritual growth. My life has been a spiritual journey leading me find the love of my life and a special home with HPC. It is an honor to be chosen as an Elder in such a strong, active church.

Sandy Ogg

I’ve been at HPC since 1999. Was looking for a church home and my fellow Boy Scout parents suggested I try HPC. It is a great fit.  I’m looking forward to working with the other deacons caring far and supporting our congregation.  My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13  “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Roxanne Jones Holgate

Roxanne has served as a Deacon for the last three years and is beginning a second term.