EXTEND WARM TO Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. Ivan F. Butler, Jr., Dr. Joanne Butler and The family of
Nassau, Bahamas
CRAIG N. JOHNSON
And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding
Jeremiah 3:15
Greetings and Blessings Friends!
Our God is Great and Greatly to be Praised. Psalm 118:23 states “This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes”. I completely concur with the Psalmist as I stand in awe of What the Lord has already done and look forward with great anticipation of what’s to come! I am gratefully humbled that the Grace God has afforded me is made evident in this moment. Thank you for sharing this momentous occasion with me! To God Be All the Glory! To my wife Samantha and my sons, you are an invaluable piece of me and I thank God for you daily! Without your love, support and sacrifice none of this would be possible. To my extended family and all my colleagues and friends, your love and friendship helps to fuel my passion to serve and makes the dreary days so much brighter. God be Praised for your love and kindness shown to me. To Mom and Dad, thank you for introducing me to the Lord Jesus Christ and setting me upon a path to receive the Greatest Gift of All. Your love and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Lastly to the First Park Baptist Church of Plainfield affectionally called “The Park” Come Let Us Celebrate together and give our God the Glory for bringing us together at this appointed time! As we serve together I know Our God will bless us, sustain us, a develop us into the people he would have to be. So, I close with this: I Love you with the love of the Lord, and everything is Looking Up!
Proverbs 3: 3-4 says, "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.”
I am grateful that my Craig, is a faithful husband, a faithful father, a faithful son, a faithful brother, a faithful friend, and most importantly a faithful servant.
But I am most grateful that God thought enough of you and trusted you for such an assignment as Pastor! “That’s what I mean when I say, ‘Many get invited; only a few make it.’” (MSG)
To say I am honored to be your helpmate and partner on this journey is an understatement. I count it a joy and a privilege that God chose me for you. As your partner, I will always cover you in Prayer, offer you words of Encouragement, and provide a home of Refuge and a place of Peace and Joy. And I will always and forever be your biggest supporter in ministry and life!
Congratulations my love on becoming the Eighteenth Pastor of First Park Baptist Church!
Your Faithfulness and Dedication to God is exemplary!
Your Devoted and Faithful wife, Samantha Mahalia Kennedy Johnson, Leading Lady
Philippians 4:20, "Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever.” What can I say about my husband? The one word I use to describe Pastor Johnson is Faithful!
Leadingladysamanthajohnson
PASTORAL INSTALLATION PROGRAM OF reverend craig n. johnson
SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024 • 11:00 AM
REV. DR. KENNETH DR CLAYTON, PRESIDING PASTOR OF THE ST. LUKE BAPTIST CHURCH PATERSON, NJ
Praise and Worship
Call to Worship.…………………………………………….......……….Reverend Dr. Kenneth DR Clayton
Processional……………………………………………………………………....….….....The Johnson Family
Congregational Hymn….………………………………………………….…...................Glory to His Name
Old Testament Scripture.…………………………………………………….....Reverend Torina Armstrong Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ
New Testament Scripture.…………………………………………………..Reverend Trey Dupont, Pastor Greater Zion Baptist Church, Harrisburg, PA
Invocation….…………………………………………………………........Bishop Wayne L. Johnson, Pastor Bibleway Deliverance Center, Roselle, NJ
Selection….………………………………………………………...Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ
Words of Welcome/Statement of Purpose…………………….......................Trustee Dorothy Jennings
Chairperson, Board of Trustees, First Park Baptist Church
Special Greetings….....………………………………………………………...............Deacon Fred Wilbon
Chairperson, Board of Deacons, First Park Baptist Church
Reverend Pamela Sallie, Pastor Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church, Passaic, NJ
Reverend Dr. William B. Moore, Pastor Tenth Memorial Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA
Selection….………………………………………………………...Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ
Special Greetings ………………………………………………..............Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter
22nd Legislative District NJ General Assembly
Reverend James Duckett, Pastor
Fort Motte Baptist Church, Bronx, NY
Introduction of Guest Preacher….............…………………………........Reverend Lance Mann, Pastor
Union Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ
Sermonic Selection……………………………………………………....................Reverend Marcia Sapp
Gospel Message……………………………………………….......Reverend Dr. Jerry M. Carter Jr, Pastor
Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ
Invitation to Discipleship
Installation Offering……………………………………………….…....Reverend Dr. Kenneth DR Clayton
Charge to the Pastor……............…………………………………...Reverend Dr. Derrick Dumas, Pastor
First Baptist Church, Linden, NJ
Charge to the Congregation……………………………..................Reverend Dr. Carol Lynn Patterson
Setting the Captives Free Ministries, Newark, NJ
Presentation of the Bible…………………….………….........................Reverend Daryl M. Griffin, Pastor
Monumental Baptist Church, Jersey City, NJ
Presentation of the Communion Set……….……........................................Deacon Lawrence Lawson
First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ
Presentation of the Robe………………………………......................Deacon Fred Wilbon, Chairperson
First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ
Presentation of the Keys ...Deacon William Thomas
First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ
Laying on of Hands/Prayer of Installation…………...............…Reverend Dr. Dana P. Owens, Pastor
Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ
Right Hand of Fellowship………………………….................Reverend Dr. Kenneth DR Clayton, Pastor
St. Luke Baptist Church, Paterson, NJ
Presentation of Pastor Craig N. Johnson
Remarks
……………………………................Lady Samantha M. Johnson & Pastor Craig N. Johnson
Benediction
reverend dr. jerry m. carter, jr.
Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr. is a native of Columbus, Ohio. He was called to the Calvary Baptist Church of Morristown, New Jersey in 1990 and during his tenure as the 14th Pastor, he has impacted Ministry that has consequences that extend well beyond Calvary and the Morristown Community. He is a highly sought-after revivalist, keynote speaker and lecturer who has been invited to share the Gospel on various platforms throughout the Country
Those who regularly “sit” under Pastor Carter’s preaching, teaching and tutelage have greatly benefited from his anointed divining and proclamation of the Word of God and its profound ability to change lives. With a prescience of its eventual ramifications, Dr. Carter would found the “How Shall They Hear” Preaching Conference to further encourage, prepare and strengthen those with “…beautiful.. feet..” who would bring “Good News” to the world.
He has inspired a greater connection to a more spiritual lifestyle through two published works: The Empowered Life: Living Well In The Spirit Your Spiritual Path. Rev. Carter is also excited to announce the new release of his book, Preaching Upstream: Reflections on Preaching and the Word of God in Current Times, provoking compilation of thoughts and reflections on preaching in today's world.
He has also contributed to the New Interpreter’s Handbook of Preaching, Oxfords Sermons Volume III, Evangelizing the Black Male in the 21st Century and the African American Pulpit Adding to his influence as a voice of renown are adjunct assignments at Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, New Jersey; Drew Theological School, Madison, New Jersey; New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Brunswick, New Jersey; and The Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology – Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia.
Dr. Carter received his own training at Dennison University in Granville, Ohio (BA); Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv.); and Drew Theological School (Ph.D.). His specialty of Expository Preaching won him the Prize of the same name at Princeton in 1990.
Rev. Carter currently serves as the President of the African-American Clergy Association of Morris County in New Jersey. He is also the proud father of three children, Jerry M. III, Zachary Daniel and Camille Ashley.
PASTORAL CELEBRATION SERVICE FOR reverend craig n. johnson
SUNDAY, APRIL 28, 2024 • 10:00 AM
Call to Worship…………………………………………………………………………....Brother Karl Jennings
Processional………………………………………………………………………………...........The First Family
Congregational Hymn………………………………………………………………..........Glory to His Name
Praise & Worship………………………………………………………………………..........FPBC Praise Team
Altar Prayer………………………………………………………………………….....Reverend Alice Meares
Music Ministry…………………………………………………………………………......................FPBC Choir
Welcome to “The Park”………………………………………………………...............Brother Karl Jennings
Special Greetings…………………………………………………………….....Councilman Richard Wyatt
Plainfield City Council
Deacon Fred Wilbon, Chairman FPBC Deacon Board
Music Ministry…………………………………………………………………….….........................FPBC Choir
Testimonials
Introduction of Guest Celebrant…………………………………………........Pastor Craig Noel Johnson
Music Ministry………………………………………………...........................Kemp Road Ministries Church Nassau, Bahamas
Gospel Message…………………………………………………...........Reverend Dr. Ivan F. Butler, Pastor Nassau, Bahamas
Invitation to Discipleship
Worship through Giving
Remarks………………………..............…………………………………………………….…. Johnson Family
Benediction……………………………………………………………………Reverend Dr. Ivan F. Butler, Jr.
rev. dr. ivan f. butler, jr.
Reverend Dr. Ivan F Butler, Jr. serves as the senior pastor of Kemp Road ministries and has done so for the past 39 years. Born in Nassau, Bahamas to the Reverend Ivan Butler Sr. and the late Marie Butler, he is the eldest of eight children. Through Pastor Butler’s leadership, Kemp Road ministries has grown numerically, spiritually and structurally and houses facilities to meet the growing demands of the church and community. These facilities include a food and clothing distribution center, a computer lab for students, a preschool and daycare center along with additional classrooms for a variety of teaching purposes as well as a television studio.
Pastor Butler hosts a national television program, “Practical Principles for Successful Christian Living”, the aim being to encourage and strengthen men and women on their Christian journey. He has served as:
Vice President, International Region, Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. International President of Kingdom Building Pastors and People International Network of Churches.
Third Vice President of the Bahamas National Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention.
Executive Secretary of the Bahamas Baptist Union of Churches.
He has ministered throughout the Bahamas, the Caribbean and the United States. He and his wife, Dr. Joanne Butler are the proud parents of one daughter, Gabbriella Simone-Smith, Sonin-law, Minister Kearje Smith and one grandson, Kearje Jr.
reverend dr. ronald walter johnson precious memories linger the legacy lives on!
How honored and blessed we are to have witnessed, as well as, nurtured (Pastor) Craig, whose anointed steps were destined to the pulpit to preach Born around the holidays, November 4, 1979, our blessed Christmas gift.
From the Cradle to the Crib…
• At 6 weeks old, upon hearing the gospels, he was mesmerized. He would stop drinking his bottle, listening, and when the music stopped, he would start drinking again, when the music started, he would stop drinking, when music stopped, he would start again, and so on. During his Dedication Service, we gave him back to the Lord.
From the Crib to the Playpen and Open Floor…
• He would pull pot/pans from the cabinets beating them with wooden spoons. The preparation beginning to take place.
• He took his first step (left foot) walking at ten months. The steps ordered by the Lord.
• At church, Jones Memorial-Phila, he would bang on the pew while clapping and jumping to his favorite song, “I Just Can’t Stop Praising His Name, JESUS,” and he didn’t.
From Toddler to Teens…
• He cried one Sunday that he could not wear short pants to church. His words, “Can’t wear church Mommy, can’t wear to church” his Dad agreeing, and he didn’t. He respected the church even then.
•He played his little wooden piano, (wearing red sunglasses) not quite talking swaying from side to side saying, “Mom, I’m Teevie Wonder”, I’m Teevie Wonder”. Music continued to develop wherein, he had an ear to hear.
•At age 2, he began to sing with the choir. Being the youngest, and much smaller, they carried him in and he became the youth choir’s mascot.
•At age 3, he said, “I wanna usher”, and his Dad brought him a blue suit and some white gloves. He gave out bulletins at the door. His heart to serve came forth.
•At age 5, Fifth month (May) 5th day 1985 when he was 5, he joined Union BC Passaic, NJ, going down the aisle with winged-feet, he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and was baptized
•He was an armor-bearer, helping his Dad, by taking the Revivalists, Rev. Dr. Walter Thomas, Rev. Dr. Charles Booth to the Pastor’s Study. He would unlock the doors, carrying the great number of keys, and briefcases, oftentimes bigger than he was.
•Actively attended Sunday School, sang with the Youth Choir where he played the drums, organ and occasionally the piano. Pastor Craig was our oneman band. If we were looking for Craig, didn’t have to look far, he was at church playing an instrument. His ear, for the love of music as a baby, certainly came forth. He played the flute, the drums, the guitar, the violin saying when we could not get him to his lessons, “Music will not die in me”.
From Teens to Young Adult…
•While at school (Temple University) in Philadelphia, he shared his musical talent with Tenth Memorial BC pastored by his Godfather, who dedicated him, Rev. Dr. William B. Moore, while sharing also with Rev. Robert Preston and Greater Faith BC, pastored by Rev. Larry Markus.
•Upon returning home, he helped his Dad and became Minister of Music @ Union BC, Rev. Dr. R.W. Johnson Way and Myrtle Avenue, Passaic, NJ.
•As he grew in manhood and love, he became a husband by marrying a Christian woman who loves him and the Lord, Samantha Mahalia Kennedy, September 10, 2006, our blessed addition.
•Three years later, May 27, 2009, he became a Father of twin boys, Joshua Craig and Jayden Ronald. WOW! Blessed excitement, Blessed excitement!
•Accepted his Call to the Gospel Ministry at New Zion BC, Elizabeth, NJ, Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor, where he shared his musical gifts with the Ministry.
•He was licensed and ordained by Pastor Kevin James White of New Zion Baptist Church, 800-822 Flora Street, Elizabeth, NJ – October 16, 2016.
•He accepted the Call and the Installation of Rev. Craig Noel’ Johnson as Pastor of Jehovah-Jireh Baptist Church of Christ – April 30, 2017.
•Rev. Craig, throughout Covid-19, faithfully pastored Jehovah-Jireh Baptist Church of Christ, 536 W. 148th Street Harlem, New York, NY.
•Now, his predestined steps have been ordered by God, to the Officers and congregation of the historic First Park BC, Plainfield, NJ.
•Installation Services of Rev. Craig Noel’ Johnson to the pastorate of the historic First Park Baptist Church, 315 W. 7th Street, Plainfield, NJ, the weekend April 26, 27, 28, 2024, fellowship Bowling, Service of Installation, and Celebration respectively.
The Spirit of the Lord was deposited way down in his “little” soul (from a baby) because he resided in him everywhere he would go. Therefore, my Son, I speak on behalf of your Dad and myself when I say, “Aren’t You glad You Know the Lord in the Pardon of our sins, glad to know that you and He are friends”. He has anointed/ordered your steps. You were in preparation all of your young life, for this divine purpose, to preach, to teach, to pastor, and to the pulpit your steps are ordered.
So, continue to love the people, balance your life of service, do justly, love mercy, walk humbly being careful and prayerful as you continue to seek divine guidance in everything you do for the flock in which the Lord has ordained and given you charge over. I know you will certainly preach the Word. With the Children’s Bible, bedtime snack (2 oreos & glass of milk) he said, “Read Mommy Read” until he fell asleep. I just cannot imagine life without you, because life with you has been easy, breezy, and Praise God joyful. Thank you so very much and I will continually be praying for you, the Officers and members of historic First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ. It does not yet appear the greater things our Lord Jesus Christ has in store, and I remain excited for you, my Son, Pastor Craig, Lady Samantha, Joshua, Jayden, our additions, Kendall and Kaleb.
On behalf of your Dad, the late Pastor Moderator Rev. Dr. Ronald W. Johnson and your Mom, whom you have made so Godly proud, “For this child we prayed, and God granted our petition”, I am so very, very grateful, with prayer and love-To Our Awesome God, Be the Glory, for the Great things he has done, is doing, right now, with the presence of Rev. Dr. Jerry Carter, Calvary BC, Morristown, NJ, Dr. & Dr. Ivan Butler and Kemp Road Ministries, Nassau, Bahamas, among others sharing in this auspicious occasion your Pastoral Installation, and Greater things God will continue to do With Enormous Expectations, I remain, excitedly grateful, Love, ‘Your Ace Boo Coo’--- MOM \
FreddieWilbon NathanielPenny B.LavonneMitchell
LawrenceLawson WilliamThomas LouisWilliams
We are excited to serve with you as the
Jeremiah 3:15
Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.
Rev. Meares and Min. Lyles
Craig N. Johnson
Proudly Congratulates Rev. Craig Noel Johnson on becoming the Eighteenth Pastor of First Park Baptist Church. We pray for God’s guidance as you continue to walk in His footsteps preaching and teaching practical principles for successful living.
“And I will give you pastors according to Mine Heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.” Jeremiah 3:15 (KJV)
On your Pastoral Installation At FIRST PARK BAPTIST CHURCH Plainfield, NJ from BIBLEWAY DELIVERANCE CENTER ChURCh
Of Roselle and Linden 1149 St. George Avenue – Roselle, NJ 07203
Bishop Wayne L. Johnson, B.S., M.A., M.Div. Pastor and Presiding Prelate
Beloved Nephew, the entire family is so proud of your accomplishments Love to you, Samantha, and Family From Uncle Wayne
Congratulations Pastor Craig Johnson in your new role as Pastor of First Park Baptist Church, which has 216 yearsoflegacy. MayGod’sgrace guideyouasyouembarkonthisnewjourney. Let us remember the beautiful words of Romans 10:15, which reminds us of the importance of preaching the gospel of peace and spreading good news. May you continue to inspire and uplift others with your words.
Romans 10:15 –“And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, andbring glad tidings of good things!”
Rev. Mae Belin-Senior Pastor
www.roscomchurch.org
“A Place of Prayer, Praise, Worship and Preparation”
First Park Baptist Church
315 W 7th Street
Plainfield, NJ 07060
Reverend Craig N. Johnson
2024 Installation Ceremony
Welcome to “The Park
5 Stars for Reverend CJ
Ephesians 6:17-20 The Armor of God
17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Union County Club/NANBPWC , INC. Welcomes you to the city of Plainfield. We look forward to working, collaborating, partnering with you and “The Park” in serving the youth and families of Plainfield, Union County and the Community at Large.
The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. founded in 1935, emerged as a national non-profit organization in light of the need to promote and protect the interests of women business owners and professionals. Visit our national headquarters website to learn more: https://nanbpwc.org
The Lord gave me ‘Sojourmer’, because I was to travel up an’ down the land, showin’ the people their sins an’ bein’ a sign unto them. Afterwards, I told the Lord I wanted another name ‘cause everybody else had two names, and the Lord gave me ‘Truth’, because I was to declare the truth to people.
Reverend Craig N. Johnson, it is an honor for us to Congratulate you as an anointed, Man of the Lord’s Word, The Truth!
www.bpwucc.com
nanbpwucc@gmail.com
P.O. Box 2529 Plainfield, NJ 07060
Adrian’s Caterers is a catering service company that has served the Tri-State area for over 30 years. Our delicious and colorful dishes delight the senses and have kept their clientele happy over the years.
Our Services: Parties
Corporate
ntact Us: Take-Out (908) 754-8532
https://www.adrianscaterers.net/
Email: AdriansCaterers@gmail.com
The Mount Olive Baptist Church Our 154th Year of Christian Service 216 Liberty Street - Plainfield, NJ 07060
“A Caring Church Building Family Through Phone (908) 754-3539 + Fax (908)754-0644 + Pastor(9 E-Mail: admin.asst@go2mobc.com # Website: com
Sen ch
The Mount Olive Baptist Church Officer ou Rev Craig Noel Johnson. Blessings on your Installation aying that God’s blessings are upon you today and that your love for serving Him will become ever stronger and more joyful through the years and Congratulations to the First Park family.
“And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.
Thessalonians 15”12 &13
Andbeat peace among yourselves.” 1
We celebrate and congratulate Pastor Craig N. Johnson and Family on his Installation as Pastor of The First Park Baptist Church of Plainfield, New Jersey.
Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.
-Jeremiah 3:15
We extend our love and support to our new Pastor, the Ministry Leaders, and Members as we pray that God continues to bless you and the First Park Family abundantly!
Gideon and Natacha JohnPastor Craig N. Johnson and Family
IN YOUR ENDEAVOR AND WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE OF MINISTRY, You have shown tremendous potential and a commitment to Kingdom Work!
May your:
Path be guided by faith, love and endless blessings as you embark on this new chapter! Your dedication to our community inspires us and we wish you strength, joy, and unity in abundance as you lead us forward with grace and compassion.
From: The Staley, Thomas, and Williams Family
Victor Joseph Thomas Karen Thomas Patricia Ann Staley
Corinne Frances Thomas Koi Joseph Thomas- Howard
Mario Williams Erika Staley- Williams
Mario Joseph Williams Jr. Samora Williams
Ssource the perfect venue for your meeting, conference, wellness retreat, leadership retreat, or destination events.
Is finding the perfect venue turning into a time-consuming nightmare? Between budget constraints, conflicting needs, and endless scrolling, venue-finding can feel like an endless maze
But what if there was a shortcut? An experienced venue sourcing expert?
Certified Meeing Professional with 18+ years experience in the Meetings & Events industry that has relationships with and access to 100s of venues nationwide and in over 75 countries
We specialize in finding the perfect venue for clients meetings and conferences that meets their specific needs, allowing them to focus on other crucial aspects of their meetings/events while saving them time and effort.
We understand that planning these particular events can be overwhelming and time-consuming, and requires a lot of considerations, especially when it comes to finding the right location, and are here to make the process easier and stress-free
By God’s Grace, may you faithfully shepherd this flock of Believers that has been entrusted to your care
The Jennings Family
First Park Baptist Church
Men of God
There is nothing stronger and more manly on earth than a man who is in love with the Lord and is fully surrender to his will The Men at First Park Baptist Church
Congratulations on Your Installation
Pastor Craig N. Johnson
First Park Baptist Church
High School Graduating Senior Scholarship
Congratulations On Your Installation
Pastor Craig N. Johnson
Proverbs 16:3
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. ...
April 27, 2024
Rev. Craig Noel Johnson
First Park Baptist Church
315 West Seventh Street
Plainfield, NJ 07060
Dear Pastor Johnson,
On behalf of the American Baptist Churches of New Jersey, I want to congratulate you on your call to serve as the Senior Pastor of First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ.
I am confident that your Installation Service will be a wonderful celebration of God’s faithfulness. I rejoice with you and First Park Baptist Church as together you bear witness to God’s message of love, mercy, and compassion to each other and to your local community.
Pastor Johnson, in this new pastoral journey, I encourage you to lean on the words of John 15:4-5
“Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.”
Abide in Jesus, so that in your moments of greatest weakness, you will experience God’s strength, and in your moments of greatest faltering, you will experience God’s most loving grace. God is the One who sustains you, and God is the One who will work through you and in you. Trust the Spirit of God to guide you, lead you, and empower you to set forth what this church could do and be.
May God bless your leadership with wisdom, may Christ fill you with hope and courage, and may the Holy Spirit empower and sustain you as you serve, lead, and love the people of First Park Baptist Church.
Blessings on your call, and congratulations on this sacred Installation Service.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Miriam Méndez, Executive Minister and Senior Regional Pastor
from the past to the present
In First Park’s 203 year history there have only been 17 Pastors. One of the most famous is Rev. Robert Lowery, (1876 to 1885) the composer of well loved hymns that are still being sung, “Shall we gather at the river”, “I need thee every hour”, “Nothing but the blood” and “Marching to Zion”. The number also includes our beloved Rev. Rufus McClendon (2005 - 2020) who went home to glory in 2020. In 2024, we welcome our new Pastor, Rev. Craig N. Johnson.
reverend robert lowery 1876-1885
reverend rufus mcclendon 2005-2020
reverend craig johnson 2024-present
Judkins Colonial Home in Plainfield, NJ
When you have experienced the loss of a loved one, you can trust Judkins Colonial Home to guide you through the process of honoring their life.
At Judkins Colonial Home, we pride ourselves on serving families in Plainfield and the surrounding areas with dignity, respect, and compassion. Our staff is experienced in a variety of funeral services and can help you celebrate your loved one no matter your religion, culture, or budget. 428 W 4th St, Plainfield, NJ 07060
