New Hope Baptist Church Journal

BLANK PAGE

Dear Members and Friends, I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

On Sunday, November 7, 2010, we are looking forward to celebrating our 33rd Church Anniversary.

God is so awesome! Not only through His grace and mercy, but in so many other blessings that we enjoy, without even realizing it.

I am so proud to be the Pastor here for the past 17 years and I am proud that the light of hope continues to burn! It’s awesome to consider 41 people creating a foundation that still stands strong for 33 years. God is wonderful!

As we enjoy today, look back on yesterday and remain prayerful for tomorrow, we can only thank God for his goodness. Celebrating an anniversary is a joyous time for us in our everyday family life, but to celebrate another anniversary in the life of our Church family, with every member of our Church family celebrating in God’s house, under His anointing - WOW! We are a blessed people.

My continual prayer for New Hope is in our “theme,” “A Legacy of Faith”. And through our love, prayers, understanding, worship and even growing pains, as we look forward to celebrating many more anniversaries, let us continue to “trust in His holy word, He’s never failed us yet!”

Because of Grace, Rev. Dwight D. Gill Pastor

NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH OF EAST ORANGE CHURCH LEADERSHIP

REV. DWIGHT D. GILL, SENIOR SERVANT

ASSOCIATES Rev. Dr. Millie Biggins Rev. Beverly Johnson

Rev. Edward Biggins Rev. Jeffery Ingram

Rev. Dr. Pearly Hayes Rev. Jonathan Mason

DEACON MINISTRY

DEACONESS MINISTRY

Deacon Samuel G. Cherrington, Chair

Deaconess Lillie White, Chair

Deacon Bryant Adams, Vice Chair

Deaconess Patricia Williams, Vice Chair

Deacon William T. Coleman

Deaconess-In-Training Martha Buford

Deacon Larry Edwards

Deaconess Geraldine Coleman

Deacon Jackie Finch

Deaconess Mary Frazier

Deacon Philippe Guirand

Deaconess Joan Harrison

Deacon Nathaniel Harrison, Emeritus

Deaconess Marie Harvey

Deacon Min “Roy” Herring

Deaconess Francis Holmes

Deacon Eugene Pate Deacon Lance Webb

Deaconess Katie Sue Parker

Deacon John Williams

Deaconess Catherine Pate

Deacon Lawyer Williams

Deaconess Janet Pitt Deaconess Lucille Wilson

TRUSTEES

TRUSTEES

Trustee Jeanette Parker, Chair

Trustee Marilyn “Penny” Joseph

Trustee Bernard Bonds, Church Treasurer

Trustee-In-Training Bobby Pitt

Trustee Denise Sanders Brooks

Trustee-In-Training Renzie Reed

Trustee Charles Davis Trustee Idell Germany

Trustee-In-Training Fred Thompson

Trustee-In-Training Bernardo Henry

Trustee-In-Training Keith Sadler Trustee Gene White

CHURCH CLERK/HISTORIAN Sister Wilda W. Hobbs

Message from 33rd Church Anniversary Chairperson Deaconess Joan Harrison Dear New Hope Family and Friends, Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

As we go forward in His service, I would like to take this awesome opportunity to thank the members of New Hope for extending me the privilege to serve as your Committee Chairperson for New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange’s 33rd Church Anniversary.

The only way a church can understand itself is to develop a clear history of its life. One’s love for his church is deepened when he knows the facts of its past.

The committee has diligently worked to bring you an unforgettable anniversary celebration. Our focus highlights our founders, original members and some of the noteworthy history in New Hope’s rich heritage.

As we all celebrate our 33rd Church Anniversary with great jubilation, all in attendance will take joy in showcasing our rich church history to all our members and the entire community. Let us all make a joyful noise unto the Lord, for it is He who has given us this day.

A Special Thank You is extended to my wonderful committee members who have worked with me closely to make this celebration a success. For it was by faith we have come this far and He never failed us yet.

God Bless New Hope Baptist and all Members!

Committee Members

Deaconess Joan Harrison, Chair Deaconess Lillie White, Co Chair Deaconess Katie Sue Parker Deaconess Frances Holmes Trustee Denise Brooks Trustee Jeanette Parker Trustee Idell Germany Sister Gertrude Hendrix Sister Renee Griggs Sister Alice White Sister Wilda Hobbs

LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING

James Weldon Johnson

Negro National Hymn

R. Rosamond Johnson

Lift every voice and sing, till earth and Heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of liberty; Let our rejoicing rise, high as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet, Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered; Out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou Who hast brought us thus far on the way; Thou Who hast by Thy might, led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee.

Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee.

Shadowed beneath Thy hand, may we forever stand, True to our God, true to our native land.

Toney E. Jackson, Sr. was born in Edgefield, SC. He is one of eight children.

In 1970, he received his B.A. degree from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, and in 1972 his M.A. degree from Montclair State College in Upper Montclair, NJ. He has done further study at Northeastern Bible College in Essex Fells, NJ; New York School of Bible; and the Manhattan Bible Institute, New York, NY. The New Hope Baptist Church in East Orange, NJ ordained him to the work of the Gospel ministry in 1981, under the leadership of the Rev. Leonidas B. Young. Faithfully, he served for eight years as an assistant to Rev. Young.

Rev. Jackson taught in the East Orange Public School System. During his service as a teacher, he worked diligently to provide his students with the knowledge and skills needed to compete in our highly complex and technological society. In addition to teaching the academics, he also labored to teach positive values, integrity and principles of good conduct.

In 1986, Rev. Jackson resigned from the East Orange System upon his call to serve as pastor of the Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Newark, NJ. Striving to serve effectively, Rev. Jackson has built his pastorate on the theme, “Moving from Program to Ministry.” His commitment to ministry has manifested itself in several initiatives: The Bethlehem Baptist Church Summer Youth Institute, bi-monthly Senior Citizen’s Ministry, The Monday Evening Christian Growth Classes and the Bethlehem Baptist Church Family Life Youth Center.

Rev. Jackson believes that his primary purpose in life is to educate and train people in the biblical approach to all of life. Many people have grown stronger in their faith and drawn closer to God under his biblically based and Christ centered leadership and sharing of the Gospel. He is a member of the NAACP and the American Association of Christian Counselors.

He has shared his life for 34 years with the woman who is closest to his heart, Rosemary Flowers Jackson, whom he married in 1976. They are blessed with two children, Tameka and Toney, Jr. Pastor Jackson is known for his consistent prayer life. “He prays about everything.” As a prayer warrior, he is now sought to conduct prayer workshops and seminars. Rev. Jackson has been privileged to spread God’s message through these functions in St. Paul Minnesota; Atlanta, Georgia; Landover, Maryland; New York, New York; Newark, New Jersey; Hackensack, New Jersey and Edgefield, South Carolina. He attributes his passion for prayer to his praying mother and his praying father. Rev. Jackson’s primary aim in life is to live and serve to the glory and honor of God.

Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray and cry aloud; and He shall hear my voice.

Psalm 55:17 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him.

And show him My salvation.”

Psalm 91:14-16

It is an impossible task to record on these few pages all the rich history, the fruit of our God’s divine presence in New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange. Just as God was in the plans 33 years ago, He is in the midst today. The church was founded on Faith, Hope and Love. Only God’s love and His mercy allowed New Hope to withstand the storms of time. New Hope members treasure its long rich heritage no matter how long they have been a member. We love our Holy Spirit filled church!

Like the parable of the two builders (Matt. 7:24-27), the rich builder built his house on a rock. The foolish one built his house in the sand. When the heavy rains and strong winds came, the foolish builder’s house fell to the ground. The rich builder’s home stood strong and tall against the storm. New Hope’s rock has always been its faith in Jesus! In 33 years it has encountered numerous storms, some so severe that the church’s foundation was shaken. However, members remained strong and confident that God would make a way for them. Over the past 33 years, God has heard our prayers, seen our needs whether big or small, heard our cries, while He continued to bless us exceedingly abundantly.

New Hope members know who holds the future as we continue to strive to be a “Beacon of Light in East Orange”, out-stretching our hands in the community, welcoming lost souls to Christ. “We’ve come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord, trusting in His Holy Word, He never failed us yet.” To God be the Glory!

Sister Wilda W. Hobbs, Church Clerk/Historian

A group of people with faith the size of a mustard seed, decided to start a church with the help of God. The group met in the homes of Deacon Willie Beard and Deacon James McLeod to make plans to start a church. It was forty-one baptized, God fearing people that decided to establish New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange. The “Hope” stood for the hope in their hearts that God would make a way for them. This group was criticized by community members and ministers who thought they had lost their minds.

With the help of Brother Wilton Gyant, the group of dedicated Christians without a pastor, held services at Upsala College’s Christ Chapel. Numerous ministers came to deliver the word as a spirited choir of seven filled the chapel with song each Sunday. God spoke to Brother Gyant, an employee at Upsala College, to inquire about the church used as Upsala’s art studio, located at Norman and Prospect Streets in East Orange. In only one year’s time they marched with the Mayor and City Councilmen of East Orange from Upsala’s Christ Chapel down Prospect Street. Members worked into the wee hours to ready the church for the Sunday morning service.

One of the ministers that came to preach, Rev. Leonidas Bernard Young II from Richmond, Virginia was introduced to the congregation by Deacon James Henry Phillips. In 1979, Rev. Young was installed as New Hope’s first pastor. The motto “Come Grow With Us” was established and New Hope continued to grow adding an 8:00 a.m. service.

Under Rev. Young’s leadership, Sunday collections more than doubled, the mortgage was paid off in 1986, the church purchased a new baby grand piano, tithing was introduced to the membership, and the church began work on a building fund campaign. Rev. Young founded the Concerned Clergy of the Oranges. After ten years as pastor, Rev. Young and his family relocated back to Richmond, Virginia. God had other plans for New Hope Baptist Church.

Rev. Moses Alexander Knott Jr. assumed the pastorate of New Hope. The former pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Hackensack, NJ was named Interim Pastor in January 1991.

Rev. Knott was installed as New Hope’s second pastor on May 26, 1991.

Under his leadership the church continued to grow, spiritually, physically and financially.

On November 15, 1992, Rev. Knott preaches his farewell sermon. He and a group of dissatisfied New Hope members left the church and established Imani Baptist Church of Christ of East Orange.

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Celebrating God’s Grace “A Legacy of Faith”

1977 CHURCH FOUNDING STATEMENT “Through prayer the Lord spoke to my heart and told me to go, at the time not knowing where, ended up at Upsala College. As Moses did in the day of old I met Brother Wilton Gyant of Upsala College and as Aaron was to Moses he became the vocal instrument and from that day to this one we have journeyed by the way of the wilderness. He held services at Upsala College Christ Chapel, then we made another move in the wilderness and through constant prayer, faith and dedication we have moved into spiritual Canaan.”

DEACON WILLIE BEARD

MUSTARD SEED FAITH TRAILBLAZERS

Deacons Samuel Harrison, James McLeod, Willie Beard, Lafayette Mitchell, J. Henry Phillips, Charles Salters

NEW HOPE NEWS — October 9, 1977 Deacons James McLeod, Willie Beard, Lafayette Mitchell, Samuel Harrison, Charles Salters and J. Henry Phillips called together a group of baptized believers in Christ. Like Moses searching for the Promised Land, they were confident that God would make a way for them.

On October 30, 1977, with a burning faith and hope in their hearts, forty-one dedicated Christians met a final time at the home of Deacon James and Deaconess Louise McLeod at 14 Stockton Place, East Orange and a decision was reached to establish a church. It was named New Hope by Alzata Howard. Trustee Major Walker passed a cap around to take up the first offering of fifty-four dollars and forty cents.

Deacons James McLeod, Samuel Harrison, Lafayette Mitchell, Charles Salters and Willie Beard used their family homes as collateral to secure the mortgage from Lincoln State Bank to buy the church from Upsala College.

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                    

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 

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                            

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   

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  

 

                     

 

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                         

- Gourmet Dinner Menu -

Duet-Appetizer and Salad Combination Mixed Mesclun Salad, Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Served with Asparagus and Prosciutto, Bermuda Onions, Sun dried Tomatoes topped with Balsamic Vinaigrette

EntrĂŠe Choices French Cut Breast of Chicken Marsala Grilled Norwegian Salmon with Citrus BĂŠarnaise Seasonal Fresh Vegetable and Potato

Beverages Coffee or Tea Soft Drinks or Juices

Dessert Ice Cream Sundae

“A Legacy of Faith” Banquet Order of Service

Musical Prelude.................................................................Brother Myron Smith

Master of Ceremony............................................................. Rev. Jeffrey Ingram

Procession of Dias Guests .................................................................................

Introduction of Dias Guests ........................................... Deaconess Lillie White

Welcome ............................................................................Deacon Lance Webb

Hymn................................... “Lift Every Voice and Sing”..........................Audience

Invocation/Blessing of Food.......................................Deacon William Coleman

Solo........................................... “The Lord’s Prayer”............Sister Patricia Spencer Dinner Served

Musical Selection........................................................................Music Ministry

Praise Dancers...................................New Hope Baptist Church Dance Ministry

Introduction of Speaker................................................Reverend Dwight D. Gill

Solo................................................................................... Sister Francine Finley

Anniversary Speaker........................................... Reverend Toney E. Jackson, Sr.

Senior Servant Moment.................................................Reverend Dwight D. Gill

Closing Remarks..........................................................Deaconess Joan Harrison

Closing Remarks/Benediction............................................. Rev. Dwight D. Gill Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for He is faithful that promised. And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works.

Hebrews 10:23-24

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  

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                                  

Mother Elizabeth Cottingham, Nancy L. Smith,

New Hope Dedicated Servant Nancy L. Smith was a dedicated servant of God. She earned a B.A. degree from Bloomfield College and Seminary, and later an M.A. from Newark State Teacher College, now known as Kean University.

She was a certified Dean of Christian Education.

At New Hope, her long life of dedicated Christian service continued. She served as Director of Christian Education, Adult Class Teacher, Youth Advisor and Instructor in the Missionary Society. In addition, she served as Dean Emeritus in the North Jersey District Missionary Baptist Association; and Commissioner of Christian Education for the General Baptist State Convention of New Jersey.

Church Mother

Sister Elizabeth Cottingham, one of the original members of New Hope, was officially installed as the first and only church mother on September 20, 1980. Mother Cottingham was born in Marion Station, Maryland and a resident of East Orange for 77 years. Mrs. Cottingham was a member of the Floral Club and other organizations. She worked with Meals On Wheels and the Salvation Army, retiring at 65. Mother Cottingham was the proud mother of 8, grandmother of 13, great-grandmother of 16, and great great grandmother of 8.

She remained New Hope’s one and only Church Mother until her death February 2, 1991.

Sister Nancy received many awards for her work for the Lord in Christian Education and Community interest. She was featured on the front cover of the April, May, June 1986 issue of “BAPTIST TEACHER”, a publication of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Series-Sunday School Publishing Board of Nashville, Tennessee.

Any one that knew Sister Nancy L. Smith knew she always loved and had a compassion for children.

She was instrumental in setting up the Julia Slack Scholarship Fund of New Hope Baptist Church.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7

Doris Folkes Church Clerk

The first Church Clerk, Doris Folkes held the position until her death in November 1998. She was a member of the Board of Christian Education.

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  

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  

                                   

The Later Years After the 1992 split in the church membership, the word was proclaimed by different ministers each Sunday until God sent Reverend Dwight Darnell Gill from Louisburg, North Carolina. He was introduced to the New Hope family

by Deacon Samuel and Deaconess Susan Harrison from North Carolina. Members loved Rev. Gill’s preaching, praying, singing, and charisma.

He was installed as New Hope’s third pastor August 29, 1993. Under Rev. Gill’s leadership New Hope has gone through a complete metamorphosis in the last 17 years. Several founding members remain to witness New Hope’s growth to almost 2000 members. The church’s mission statement “Moving from Mission to Ministry” was realized. Progressing in God’s divine vision for the church and as the “Senior Servant”, Rev. Gill sought to elevate the bar for the church to strengthen ministries.

“Striving in Unity to Win Lost Souls for Christ” became the new motto for New Hope Baptist Church. The church is valued in the community for the work of its ministries, clothing the naked, feeding the hungry and is the only largely African-American church serving as a member of the Interfaith Homeless Network which provides week-long safe housing for homeless families inside the church several times a year.

It has always been the vision of Rev. Gill to “turn the city upside down for Christ.”

Well known in the community, you may find this servant anywhere; passing out Bibles, visiting the sick, frying fish at church picnics, wearing an apron serving families at repasts, and preaching the funerals of God’s people that don’t have a church home.

Even in their death, Rev. Gill extends his heart and his hand to bring them to Christ, to comfort their families by telling them that Jesus loves them.

Pastor Gill knows that God is faithfully healing and delivering us all at the same time, including himself. He is graced with a warm heart where God’s Love flows like a deep river inviting thirsty souls to drink. An anointed Man of God, he is a fire-filled spirited preacher of the living word, with a “down-home” personable, welcoming manner that draws people to New Hope. Visitors feel at home in New Hope—God’s church.

Under his leadership, many new ministries have been formed, the church hired a CPA, and a new sanctuary building was constructed. Man said “no” and God said “yes.” The church was able to secure a loan from City National Bank in Newark and it was built in less time than envisioned. It was built with deep faith in God, as the Committee’s motto was “building the house of God by being obedient to the Word of God.” In February 2006, New Hope marched into the sanctuary. God revealed himself to New Hope. The construction workers were amazed as they hardly missed any days due to bad weather.

Rev. Gill often refers to New Hope as a “hospital” as members are at different stages of their Christian walk. Some are in the ER, the Trauma Unit, others in the OR and still others in Recovery. New Hope is a melting pot of people from different nationalities who come from all walks of life. Visitors and new members often remark about the friendliness of the membership which keeps them coming back.

The New Year’s Eve Service attendance has tripled! In the early years New Hope and Calvary Baptist Church of East Orange took turns housing the service. East Orange Campus High School was used for a few years because of the great response to the service. One thousand chairs were rented yearly and every seat was occupied. Music was rendered by the Mass choir.

A third service was added June 3, 2001 at 5:00pm to accommodate the growing membership. This “Dress Down Service” allowed people to wear what they have. On July 8, 2001 at the 5:00 service, Rev. Valerie Lewis became the first woman to preach her trial sermon and be licensed to preach the Gospel by New Hope. Rev. Lewis was actively involved with the Intercessory Prayer Ministry and the Prison Ministry.

An important part of worship is the awesome Music Ministry.

Currently under the direction of Brother Preston Parchment and Brother Myron Smith along with other music staff, the ministry has grown to another level. The church has a Youth/Children’s Choir, 8:00 Choir, 11:00 Choir, Male Chorus, Mass Choir, Praise and Worship Team, and Women’s Choir. New Hope continues to be blessed with dynamic musical talent from its membership. The music ranges from contemporary gospel to old school gospel to down home quartet style singing.

In recent years, there have been issues that were televised and publicized by the media that rocked the very foundation of the church. Members and friends were devastated and saddened as it seemed like the New Hope family was being torn apart. Like a volcano, the eruption started from within. However Rev. Gill and the New Hope family stood strong knowing that God would make a way for them. What man meant for evil, God meant for good.

Our God is an awesome God and His miracles are amazing! In 2009, New Hope received media attention again, but this time as the front page feature story in the Newark Star Ledger. Rev. Gill and the Brotherhood Ministry hosted NFL Sunday at the church to attract and win more men to Christ. NFL stands for “New Found Life.” The response was tremendous from male and female worshippers. Restoring and strengthening men in Christ, strengthens and restores families. Reporters and camera crews from both newspaper and television were present in the service. It has became an annual event. The New Hope Saints have victory in Jesus!

The Brotherhood hosts a long-term Saturday morning bible study for men seeking to increase their knowledge and understanding of the Bible. Rev. Gill has a heavenly inspired way of evangelizing that draws folks to Christ.

As we look into the future of New Hope, plans are to add an educational wing to accommodate our numerous ministries. The new addition will house a Fellowship Hall, offices and classrooms. God continues to bless us in a mighty powerful way. As long as Jesus remains the central focus of New Hope, there will always be a New Hope!

Ministries

Trurning the city upside down for Christ!

Audio/Visual - provides Christian couple fellowship with the memory of church activities available to the congregation.

Board of Christian Education (BOCE)- provides spiritual and religious education, training and activities to promote and uplift the name of Jesus Christ.

Brotherhood - creating a Christian fellowship among the males and through evangelism, draw men to Christ.

Marriage Ministry - develops and matures Christian couple fellowship with the NHBC members and the community.

Missionary Ministry - participates in the outreach and evangelistic goals of NHBC. Music Ministry - enhances the worship service at NHBC through music at all worship services.

Food Pantry - provides food, commodities and basic toiletries to the community.

New Members Ministry - effectively welcomes, trains, develops, and tracks new members who join the church.

Girl Scouts - local chapter of the national organization for girls ages 3 and up.

Nurses Unit - provides assistance to the Pastor and congregation during worship services.

Greeters - enhancing the spirit of fellowship and good will among visitors and members entering Worship services.

Operation Hope - serves the caring ministry needs of the Church and the community through special projects.

Higher Education Advancement Ministry - partners with God and the Church Family to provide a bridge that advances the minds of our youth to insure their future success.

Prison Ministry - provides mentoring and Christian development through weekly Sunday School classes held at the youth detention center.

Hospitality - provides physical hospitality for any NHBC function (funeral repasts, meetings, food prep and serving, etc.); supervises use of kitchen and supplies.

Intercessory Prayer - meets to go to the Lord in corporate prayer for others.

Lay Counseling Ministry - provides confidential counseling in individual and group settings.

Lighthouse Ministry - prepares and provides wholesome food and fellowship to participants in The Lighthouse Ministry program in Newark, New Jersey.

Senior Services - provides and assists our seniors with information regarding the challenges they face day to day. (Persons aged 55 and older) Sunday School - Christian education development open to all on Sunday mornings at 9:45am.

Usher Ministry - directs worshippers entering the sanctuary while providing a warm atmosphere and displaying a friendly demeanor.

Women’s Ministry - creates a Christian fellowship among females of NHBC. Youth Fellowship - provides spiritual nourishment to maturing Christian youth.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW THAT: yy The first committee/auxiliary chairpersons were James Blalock-Ushers, Edith HolcombeNurses, Louise McLeod-Choir, Juanita BakerMissionary, Willa Turley-Hospitality, Susan Harrison -Ways and Means. The first church secretary was Alberta Haywood.

yy The first recipients of the Julia A. Slack Scholarship were Rosalind Jackson and Deidre Wright.

yy The first church service was held on November 6, 1977 at 11:00 am. Rev. Charles L. Sanders, Assistant tPastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church, Newark delivered the message and served Holy Communion.

yy The Voices of Hope—Janice Augustus, Laurice Hudson, Lisa Hudson, Wade Hudson, Pearl Tappins, Curtis Hudson (lead guitarist), Raymond Hudson (bass guitarist), sang on 5th Sundays.

yy New Hope’s first baptism candidate was Mrs. Alberta Haywood, daughter of Deacon Lenyear and Deaconess Rose Johnson. The service was held on November 30, 1977 at Calvary Baptist Church of East Orange with its pastor Rev. William Bailey officiating.

yy The first Minister of Music was Brother Myron Smith.

yy The first Sunday School class was held on Sunday, December 3, 1977 at 10:00 am. yy The recognition service of New Hope as a church body of the North Jersey Baptist District Association, a part of the General Baptist Convention of the State of New Jersey, was held on December 18, 1977. yy Deacon Willie Woodall, Deacon Franklin James, Agnes Bess and Deaconess Lillie White were the first organizers of the Emergency Food Pantry. When services started in 1996, approximately 50 families were given food monthly. In 2010 NHBC gives food to at least 150 families per month. yy The church’s incorporation papers were received from the State of NJ. The incorporation attorneys were Ronald R. Tutela and Jeff McKinley of Newark. yy Mr. and Mrs. James Henderson were the first couple in the congregation to be wed on May 20, 1978 at Metropolitan Baptist Church by Reverend Charles L. Sanders.

yy New Hope’s first drill team was coached by Jeanne Suggs in 1977.

yy The first Brotherhood Picnic was held on the first Saturday in August 1986. yy Greta Sheperd was New Hope’s first Church Administrator. yy At one time there were four women Associate Ministers serving NHBC; Rev. Dr. Millie Biggins, Rev. Karen Harden, Rev. Valerie Lewis, and Rev. Debbie McCrae. yy The New Hope Federal Baptist Church Credit Union, founded by Sister Ruth Carter, received its charter on May 19, 1982. yy New Hope approved the establishment of a satellite church in Paris, France on September 11, 1983. New Hope of Paris was under the pastorate of Rev. Olin Richard. yy Trustee Gene White was the first Trustee Board Chairman, holding the position several times. yy Josephine Walker was responsible for bringing the program “100 Women In White” to New Hope. She got the idea from her home church in Virginia. yy Ramona Adams is New Hope’s first Office Manager.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW THAT: yy For 15 years, Gertrude Hendrix and Ravi Adams have mentored Girl Scouts in grades kindergarten through 12 at New Hope. yy Rev. Johnnie Brewster called the women together on January 28, 1979 to select officers forWomen’s Day. The first officers and committee chairs were: Jeanne Simpson, Chair; Wilda Hobbs, Vice Chair; Alberta Haywood, Secretary; Nancy L. Smith, Program; Deaconess Susan Harrison, Pulpit; Julia Slack, Publicity; Deaconess Louise McLeod, Music; Edith Holcombe, Ushers; Cordova Frazier, Floral; and Darlene Spencer, Finance. yy After Men’s Day in 1980, a group of 20 men that enjoyed singing together were encouraged

by Rev. Young to continue, thus the Male Chorus. Its founder and director was Hilrie Powell.

The first chairman of Men’s Day was Roland Thompson. yy The East Orange Development Corporation’s Head Start Program was housed in New Hope from January 1982 to December 1982. yy NHBC had a Youth Ministry at the Youth House in Newark in 1982, led by Rev. Clarence Page. yy New Hope’s first audio technician was Harold Banks. yy The renowned gospel composer and artist, Leon Lumpkins played for the Youth/ Young Adult Choir and later the 8:00 Choir under the pastorate of Rev. Leonidas B. Young II. yy Darlene Spencer, daughter of Trustee Jeanette Parker spent her Sundays working in the church nursery. She also served as Secretary—Scholarship Committee, Financial Secretary—Board of Christian Education (BOCE), and as an advisor to the Youth Council. yy In 1984 BOCE introduced to New Hope a group of children known as Acolytes. These

children attended worship service regularly with their parents and were incorporated into the service. The members were: Leonidas B. Young Jr., Jewel Carter, Kemba White, Jocelyn Burgess, Aldon Bryant, Rashad Johnson, Dana Harris, LaToya Davis, Marcus Marsh, Trina Smith, Natalie Burwell, Chen Watts, Bryan Page, Dawn Lamb, Tosha Dunnell, James Bennett, Donna Harris, LaKisha Mackle, and Keeley Robinson. yy The Brotherhood was formed by Rev. Toney E. Jackson Sr., Wade Hudson, and Deacon Freeman Harris after Men’s Day on the second Sunday in June 1985. yy New Hope’s first tutorial program in 1988, was under the direction of Phyllis Bivins and cochaired by Michael Daniels, along with a staff of 12. Sessions on Saturday mornings. yy New Hope’s first bowling league was organized

by Rev. Ernest Mitchell in 1989. yy Trustee Ernest Phillips was New Hope’s first van driver. yy Deaconess Martha Alford founded Camp New Hope. yy Trustees Idell Germany and Jeanette Parker kept the books by hand until several years ago.

Trustee Parker was Financial Secretary and Trustee Germany, the church’s bookkeeper. yy New Hope’s first newsletter “The Voice of Hope” was in booklet form consisting of 50-60 pages. yy Aldon Bryant served as New Hope’s missionary to Thailand in 2000. yy Musicians blessing us thru the years-Frank Johnson, Greg Garland, J. Gary Hutchinson, Seldon Dove, Moses Priester, Rev. Willis, Albert Cary, Alex Mack, Rev. Estelle Smart and Joshua Milan.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW THAT: yy Sarah Dias currently serves as New Hope’s Christian Counselor.

yy The 3-story wing of the church is demolished in October 2004, cleared and excavated.

yy The cornerstone was laid commemorating New Hope’s 18th Anniversary.

yy Louis and Yvette Orr made “major” financial contributions towards the building campaign.

yy Rev. Alton Craig Dunn was the 3rd minister ordained at New Hope on January 18, 1998.

He was Youth Minister, New Members Instructor, advisor to the Teen Sisterhood Ministry, coordinated Operation Hope’s Thanksgiving Drive, and was in charge of New Ministry Development.

yy The ribbon cutting ceremony for the new sanctuary was held on February 17, 2006. yy April 13, 2008, Associate Ministers Rev. Edward Biggins, Rev. Dr. Millie Biggins, Rev. Dr. Pearly Hayes, and Rev. Robert Curry are licensed by New Hope to do the Lord’s work.

yy Rev. Thomas A. Hutchines was the 4th minister ordained at New Hope on September 26, 1999.

Rev. Hutchines served as Chair of Visitation and member of Bereavement Committee. yy On February 2, 2002, Rev. Karen Harden was the 2nd woman to preach her trial sermon andbe licensed to preach the Gospel by New Hope. She was a Youth Ministry worker, member ofthe Music Ministry and Sunday School. yy On August 8th, 2003, a new Building Committee was formed and affirmed by the Joint Board. Serving on the committee was Gregory Matthews and J. Clifton Wilkerson Esq., CoChairs; Denise Sanders Brooks, Frank Fraser and Robert Ross. yy The Dedicate-A-Brick Campaign begins in April 2004. $71,450 collected for 667 bricks sold.

yy On July 1, 2008, New Hope hosted the wake and funeral of NJ State Trooper, Major Dwayne M. Kelly, who was killed in Iraq. This was the largest funeral ever held at New Hope. yy Sister Beverly Johnson becomes the 3rd woman at New Hope to preach her trial sermon on July 11, 2010. yy Youth Pastors at New Hope: Rev. A. Craig Dunn, Rev. Lyddale Akins, and Rev. Monica Hooks. yy The North Jersey District Missionary Association was the first group to hold an event in the new sanctuary. yy John “Rick” Funches served as New Hope’s first Worship coordinator for several years prior to relocating to Dallas, Texas.

yy New Hope closes on a $3,000,000 construction loan from City National Bank.

Special Thanks to all who contributed in any way to our 33rd Church Anniversary Rogers Ramsey, Lisa White (corsages), Yelena Pirtskhalava (technical assistance) Rev. Dr. Pearly Hayes, Wanda Martin-NHBC staff receptionist Hosts & Hostesses Reginald Clark, Joshua DeSousa, Keyona White, Jada Parker, Sasha Pettiway, Kiara Pettiway

P A T R O N S

Senior Services Ministry Jackie Walters Ushers Dorothy Andrews Karen Andrews Sharon Andrews Sam Harris Lorene Johnson James Latta Sterling McRay Charlie Outlaw Fred Phillips James Pridgeon Alice White Ellen White Thomas White Sr. Denise Whitehead Gennie Williams Dorothy Young

Patrons John Bradshaw Catherine Bragg Paulette Braxton David Bridges Sandra Addison Britto Trustee Denise Sanders Brooks Jamal Brooks Quentin Jamal Brooks Irene Brown Richard Brown D-I-T Martha Buford Veronica Hoffler Campbell Nossie Clark Pansy Clark Sherylle Clark Deaconess Geraldine Coleman Kai Coleman Kathryn Coleman Niya Coleman

Patrons

Reginald Coleman

Joseph Adams

Deacon William Coleman

Ella Alford

Bennie Cox

Theresa Alford

Katie Curry

Louise Apson

Mary “Toot” Curry

Deborah Berry

Tanya T. Curry

Agnes Bess

Daphness and Jones

Flossie Bigelow

B. Jean Davis

Nellie Bigelow

Catherine Davis

Rev. Edward Biggins

Almay Day

Rev. Dr. Millie Biggins

Antonio DeSousa

The Boykins Family

Deacon Larry Edwards

P A T R O N S

Theresa Edwards

Lonnie Hinton

Francine Finley

Michael W. Hobbs

Jackie Fisher

Wilda W. Hobbs

Deacon Clifton J. Foster

Beryl E. Holbert

Deaconess Mary A. Frazier

Samuel Holbert

Trustee Idell Germany

Deaconess Frances L. Holmes

Neta M. Germany

Dennis Houston

Dorothe’ Grand-Pierre

Yvonne Houston

Ronel Grand-Pierre

Mattie Howell

Halcott Greaves

Marisa Hunter

Bruce Griggs Sr.

Deborah Irvin

Renee Griggs

Valentine Jackson

Alexis Guirand

Kim Jacob

Deacon Philippe Guirand

Abebe Jannah

Damon Hardaway

Tia Jannah

Kristian Hardaway

Demetrius Jenkins

Aliyah Harris

Annie Johnson

Delores Harris

Janie Johnson

Thomas Harris

Karen Johnson-Preston

Yolanda Harris

Shirley Johnson

Deaconess Joan Harrison

Eileen Jones

Marcia Harrison

Kim Jones

Deacon Emeritus Nathaniel Harrison

Trustee Penny Joseph

Cynthia Hart

Rev. Valerie Lewis

Deaconess Marie Harvey

Mary Ann Lopez

Sharon Henderson

Theressa Malone

Zenobia Henderson

Maude Malone-Bonney

Gertrude Hendrix Family

Gregory Matthews

Jeanette Hester Lauren Hill Evalina Hinton

Lorraine Matthews Donna McCasline Dr. Elaine S. McGhee

P A T R O N S

Genette McLaughlin

Kent Rheubottom

Minnie Moore

Aigner Rogers

Sophronia Moore

Keenan Rogers

Tara Moore

Saundra & Keith Rogers

Iza Moreno

Dawn Ross

Sandi Osborne

Gilbert Ross Sr.

Evonne Owens

Jacqueline Ross

Glenda Owens

Janell Ross

Trustee Jeanette Parker

Jayla Ross

Deaconess Katie Sue Parker

Jerel Ross

Kneena Parker

Robert Ross

Michael Parker

Annie L. Russ

Otis L. Parker

Gregory Russell

Ines M. Davis Parks

Damond J. Sanders

Mercella Passley

George H. Sanders Jr.

Dorothy Peace

George H. Sanders Sr.

The Pemberton Family

Rose Sanders

Ruth Pettigrew

Avery Scott

T-I-T Bobby Pitt

William Scott

Deaconess Janet Pitt

Anthony & Valerie Sellars

Deja Pressley

Ora Lavern Sellars

Jade Pressley

Valerie Denise Sellars

James Pressley

Wanda Sellars

Keri Pressley

Adass T. Seymour

Mr. & Mrs. Sean Pulley

Tamirah Shields

Rogers Ramsey

Mehki W. Simon

Shirley Randolph

Beverly Slaughter

Bettie Reed

Aliyah Smith

Mr. & Mrs. J. Reeves

Darlene Smith

Charlene Reid

Lisa Smith

T-I-T Renzie Reid

Myron Smith & Family

P A T R O N S

Steven Smith

Thomas White Jr.

Michelle Softley

Victor White

Pat Spencer

Warren White

Richard Spencer

William White

Marian D. Stevens

Barbara Wiggins

Eleanor L. Stridiron

Phyllis Wiggins

Aniyah Suggs

J. Clifton Wilkerson, Esq.

Jeanne Suggs

Marsha Wilkerson

Steven Suggs

Deacon Lawyer A. Williams

Clinton A. Taylor & Family

Deaconess Patricia Williams

Crystal Curry Thomas

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Wilson

Derrick Thomas

Brittany Wilson

Norhreena Thomas

Alpha M. Wilson

Autumn Thompson

Jobyna N. Wilson

Bennie Thurmond III

Kathleen Wilson

Brenda Thurmond

Kellen Wilson

Michelle Thurmond

Deaconess Lucille Wilson

Linda Traynham

Yvonne Walls Winslow

Dorothy Troy

Ashley M. Wright

Russell Troy

Denise M. Wright

Barbara J. Turner

Margaret M. Wright

Larry Van Hook

Jourden Wynn

Josephine Walker Trustee Major C. Walker Lakeisha Ward Darlene Washington Edward Washington Carolyn White Elaine White Deaconess Lillie White Lisa White

DEACON WILLIAM COLEMAN For humbly, unselfishly and obediently serving God and His New Hope Family

We Thank You! For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

1 Timothy 3:13

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:15

We honor God and thank Him for keeping us and growing us along our Christian journey.

We stand steadfast in faith, trusting and believing that His faithfulness endures forever and ever!

To God Be The Glory!

After 33 years, these members still serve with loyalty and commitment: Deacon William Coleman (former Chair) -faithful Trustee and Church Treasurer prior to becoming a Deacon Trustee Jeanette Parker -faithful Trustee (current Chair) and Music Ministry member Trustee Gene White -faithful Trustee and former Chair Trustee Idell Germany -faithful Trustee Sister Jeanne Suggs -faithful Sunday School Teacher Sister Alice White -faithful Usher