2025 Annual Report_Social Version by RutgersChurch

229 Annual Meeting of the Congregation

As followers of Jesus Christ, we rejoice in God's plan for a just, loving, and peaceful world and we commit ourselves to making it a reality for ALL people everywhere.

2025: OUR MINISTRY IN ACTION WORSHIP

SERVING OUR NEIGHBORS

ARTS AND CULTURE

JUSTICE AND ADVOCACY

AGENDA

2026 Annual Congregation Meeting

January 25, 2026 at 12:30pm Before the formal meeting, during the meal please enjoy a slide show illustrating the vibrant life of our church and the many ways in which we put our faith into action through outreach, advocacy, and compassionate engagement with the community. 1.Hymn #733 – We All Are One in Mission - Verse 1 2.Call to order and Prayer 3.Reading of the Rutgers Church Mission Statement AS FOLLOWERS OF JESUS CHRIST, WE REJOICE IN GOD’S PLAN FOR A JUST, LOVING AND PEACEFUL WORLD, AND WE COMMIT OURSELVES TO MAKING IT A REALITY FOR ALL PEOPLE EVERYWHERE. 4.Highlights of Our Strategic Planning 5.A Word from the Treasurer 6.Questions and Comments on the Annual Report 7.Action on the Minutes of the Current Meeting [Motion: "That the reading of the Minutes be waived and the Minutes be accepted, and reviewed by the February Session."] 8.Adjournment of the Meeting and Closing Prayer 9.Hymn #733 – We All Are One in Mission - Verse 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS Pastor’s Report

Treasurer’s Report

Clerk of Session Report

Church Administrator’s Report

BOARD REPORTS

Board of Deacons

Board of Trustees

COMMITTEE REPORTS Personnel Committee

The Giving Network

Director of Music/Organist Worship Committee

Peace and Social Justice Committee

Community Programs

Worship Committee

Christian Education

In the Sanctuary

PROGRAM PARTNERS Introduction to New American Activities Asylum Support Clinic Welcome Home Jersey City Refugee Employment Partnership Scouts

30 31 33 36 38

MINUTES Congregational Meeting for the Election of Officers -

November 23, 2025 228th Annual Congregational Meeting – January 25, 2025

NOTES

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PASTOR’S REPORT For every pastor, church life naturally circles around weekly Sunday worship and the great festivals of the Christian year. Yet some of the ministry I cherish most takes place in creative and unexpected settings and moments. For nearly fifteen years, our congregation has celebrated Saint Francis Day with a Blessing of the Animals in Riverside Park. This gentle, joyful service is one of my favorites. Over the years we have welcomed anywhere from ten to twenty dogs and even an occasional brave cat (and their humans), sometimes more. In 2025, under perfect and warm autumn skies, we greeted nearly fifty four-legged friends, along with their families - in fact among all of God’s creatures a larger attendance than many Sunday mornings! And in the spirit of “one key statistic,” I can report that this year’s service included the blessing of a tortoise named Boris. Statistically speaking, in 2025 we blessed 100% more tortoises than in all previous years combined.

Pastoral care remains one of the most meaningful parts of my ministry – visits to hospitals, nursing homes, and the homes of our members who can no longer attend worship in person. From the past year, I especially remember anointing the feet of our beloved Ethel Knight at the request of her daughter Valerie as Ethel prepared for her journey home.

And I treasure the many visits with Chris Jones. Even in difficult moments, Chris would share with me dramatic monologues, often from Russian playwrights and occasionally even delivered in Russian. But on my next-to-last visit to him in the Yonkers Medical Center, when he was truly seriously ill, but miraculously improved just for a day, he shared with me a religious joke. The ICU nurse from the Dominican Republic joined us, laughing. It was a moment of grace, humor, and hope that I will not forget. Here it is as I remember it: --------God says to Jesus, “Son, I’ve got a special mission for you. You’ll save all of humanity -- but you have to die for it. You get to choose: bees or the cross.” Jesus pauses, thinks it over… and says, “Cross, please.” And that is why Christians in worship make the sign of the cross … instead of just flailing their arms up around like crazy! Respectfully submitted, Andrew Stehlik, Senior Pastor and Head of Staff

TREASURER’S REPORT As provided for by the Book of Order, “The session shall elect a treasurer for such term as the session shall decide and shall supervise his or her work or delegate that supervision to a board of deacons or trustees. Those in charge of various congregational funds shall report at least annually to the session and more often as requested.” As Treasurer, I am pleased to report that the financial health of Rutgers Presbyterian Church continues to be strong at the beginning of 2026. We ended the year 2025 with a modest surplus, which will be held in a rental reserve account to help hold ourselves harmless from any gaps in rental revenue that may occur when a tenant moves out before we start receiving rent from a new tenant. With respect to church operations for 2026, a draft budget was prepared by Dave Mammen, Church Administrator, and reviewed by me and approved by Session. It is a balanced budget that will allow us to continue our many church and community programs, maintain our facilities, and set aside funds for mission giving and savings -- all while providing substantial reserves for the unknowns that we may encounter. If anyone has any questions about financial matters of the church, please feel free to talk with me or Dave Mammen at any time. Respectfully submitted, Christine Gorman, Treasurer

CLERK OF SESSION REPORT The Session of Rutgers Presbyterian Church is comprised of nine church members, or Elders, elected by the congregation and ordained and/or installed during an annual church ceremony. The Clerk of Session acts as recording secretary for each official Congregational and Session meeting and, more importantly, acts as a primary liaison between church members and the Session. The Session’s main purpose is to govern the church and all its affairs. The Session is tasked with final approval of all requests and recommendations submitted by members, church boards, and committees. The boards consist of Deacons and Trustees; the committees include Christian Education, Giving Network, Worship, New Americans, Membership and Public Relations, Personnel, Strategic Planning, Nominating, and Peace & Social Justice Network. The Session also receives reports from the Pastor, Church Administrator and the Treasurer throughout the year and votes on all administrative, building maintenance, and financial action when required. All action items from 2025, votes, and requests are highlighted in each of the committee reports included in the 2025 Annual Report. Members of the Session serving in 2025 included Lili Bohan, Karen Johnson, Jane Kim, Lynne Morris, Lisa Pinto, Rick Reece, Jon Smith, Zoe Strother, and Beth Childs. An important activity of the Session throughout 2025 was our strategic planning initiative, guided by a small study team (Lili Bohan, Rick Reece, and Jon Smith) with Pastor Andrew and Church Administrator Dave Mammen. The year began with a briefing for the study team by our consultant Peter Szabo, who had conducted in-depth interviews for us with more than 20 current and retired pastors and church officials around the country to learn how they are grappling with the issues which concern us: growth and vitality, faith and calling, ministry and mission. This identified two priorities which were implemented. One was to hire a communications expert to amplify the voice and values of Rutgers Church because we were already doing most of the things other churches were suggesting, but people don’t know. See the Personnel report for details. The second was to increase our street presence by restoring lanterns and signage, installing façade lighting, and replacing the main sanctuary entry doors. See the Trustees report for details. 9

The next phase of work involved targeted discussions with 3 cohorts identified as priorities for growth and vitality: parents with children, those at or near retirement age, and our diaspora. These confidential conversations were facilitated by Peter Szabo and a second consultant Paula Kliger and explored both individual spiritual growth and our community’s collective vitality. Findings were summarized without attribution for Session’s study group. These then informed the third phase of work undertaken in the Fall: anonymous surveys of church members, friends, and those who interact with the church in some fashion through their involvement in events, programs and activities. At the November Session meeting we had a full briefing and discussion of the survey findings. We’ll continue to discuss what we have learned with a special focus on how we can put our faith into action through outreach, advocacy and compassionate engagement with our larger community. If you are interested in serving God by becoming more actively involved in our church as a member of the Session, Deacons, or any committee/network I’ve mentioned please let our Nominating Committee, our Church Administrative Assistant, or me know of your interest. This is OUR church and we want everyone to be actively involved! Respectfully Submitted, Beth Childs Clerk of Session 2025

REPORT OF THE CHURCH ADMINISTRATOR

Each year it is a pleasure to assist the leadership of the church by providing staff support to many boards and committees. I also try to be a thought partner to Pastor Andrew (on non-theological matters!), including on our strategic planning work focused on growth and vitality of the church and better communication of how faith and calling finds expression in the world. Church administration is a team effort, and I enjoy managing and supporting those who directly report to me: Tina, Dermonte, and Jennifer. I also enjoy working with Janara on varied matters, big and small. I think we all work well as a team, supplemented by retained resources such as attorneys, brokers and others who help with the myriad tasks that comprise church administration. I am grateful that the church has allowed me to develop an expansive role as Administrator, providing me with time and resources for special projects that advance the broad agenda of the church. This was our 10th year hosting a community supported agriculture project with Hearty Roots Farm in Columbia County, New York, with 125 households participating. Our CSA is not just about bringing organic vegetables from farm-totable; it is also about building community and church outreach. In 2025 I continued to assist refugees through the Refugee Employment Partnership, serving as Chair of the Board of Welcome Home (a nonprofit community organization in Jersey City), and by providing background support to the Asylum Support Clinic. I also used some study leave time to continue research and writing about what I'm calling a community development approach to resettlement. This included a one month stay at the American Academy in Rome as a Visiting Scholar, during which I met with many faith leaders and community organizations active in refugee resettlement. In Rome I also spoke at the conference Refugees and Migrants In Our Common Home, which launched a global, multi-year initiative of universities and community partners to address critical challenges through education, research, service and advocacy. The conference included an audience with Pope Leo XIV – I shook his hand! 11

Richard Fields (REP), Dave, Jamil Akbari, Karen Johnson, Edgar Ochoa (ASC), Nancy Muirhead Beyond Welcome: Ten Years of Community Commitment to Refugees, November 19, 2025

It was a privilege to organize an event held at church on November 19 where we celebrated ten years of community commitment to refugees, were inspired by those who have resettled, took stock of current efforts, and looked ahead with new ideas.

When I first met Handrin Khoja when the church helped her family resettle in the U.S. in 2017, she had missed 3 years of high school after leaving Syria. She asked for help and the church responded with tutors -- church elders, CSA members, and neighbors -every Sunday in our Session room for several years. In May I had the joy of attending ceremonies at Bryn Mawr college with her family as she graduated with a degree in neuroscience on a full scholarship. She’s now enrolled in a graduate program in speech and language pathology. Respectfully submitted by Dave Mammen 12

BOARD OF DEACONS Serving on the 2025 Board of Deacons were Louisa Anderson-Berry, Jack Bessonette, Sara Latta, Nora Lidell, Massimo Maglione, Connie Rensink, Susan Scherer, Sue Spears, Karen Young, and our fearless leader Ed Kennelly. We are fortunate to have Connie serve as our diaspora deacon to help us better address the needs of our church friends and family who now live far from NYC, and to have Jack’s youthful energy and perspective. Although Kim Hodges has rotated off the Board of Deacons, she continues to lead the Deacon’s Thursday Night Meal Program, newly renamed the Ulla Farmer Meal Program, in memory of our dear Ulla who founded the program over 40 years ago and dutifully ran it for decades. The meal program feeds over 150 guests from the neighborhood who are experiencing food insecurity, handing out bags of sandwiches (and in cold weather, hot meals) and other items. It’s been a joy having her grandson Julian volunteer with the program in fulfillment of his high school community service project. On Thanksgiving, Kim and her intrepid band of volunteers hosted a sit-down dinner with turkey and all the trimmings for 110 guests. And this year, Karen organized a giving tree in which friends and members of Rutgers donated items for 160 gift bags to give to our meal program guests. One of the most memorable moments of the year came when Joel Gokalp delivered a Moment for Mission about his Eagle Scout project, Project Validation. In coordination with the Ulla Farmer Meal Program, Joel interviewed individuals facing housing and food insecurity, giving them the opportunity to have their voices heard on a podcast he created for this project.

The deacons take turns hosting coffee hour each month to encourage fellowship and conversation. Once a month, we use this time to connect with our far-flung friends via Zoom. We also hosted food-fueled celebrations of Black History Month and Shrove Tuesday, a Homecoming potluck, the annual meeting luncheon, and Christmas lunch. With sadness and humility, we hosted receptions for the memorials of dear members of our congregation who have gone on to rest with our heavenly Father/Mother, including Ethel Knight, Ulla Farmer, and Chris Jones. Throughout the year, deacons and Pastor Andrew visited our members and friends who are homebound or hospitalized to provide care, fellowship, and comfort. We accompanied members who needed assistance to church services, and to doctors’ and other appointments. Each month, the deacons send cards created by our resident artist deacon Nora Lidell to members of our congregation who are in special need of care and encouragement or simply to celebrate joyous milestones. In November, we sent Christmas greetings to Rutgers members, friends, and guests of the Ulla Farmer meal program. We also delivered Advent wreaths and a devotional booklet to our dear members who are homebound or in the hospital. As deacons, it is our joy and honor to serve the needs of members of our congregation as well those of our neighboring community. Respectfully submitted, Ed Kennelly

BOARD OF TRUSTEES The Trustees oversee the church’s real property -- the sanctuary building, Church House, the “Chase building” at 2095 Broadway, and 2091 Broadway -- subject to the authority of the Session. The Trustees during 2025 were Scott MacKenzie (Moderator), John Bessonette, Hayden Jones, Lane Maurer, Bob Shelton, Sheila Smith, and Pastor Andrew Stehlik. Dave Mammen and Dermonte Alleyne provide staff support. The Trustees met twice during 2025. Property repair, renovation and modernization The Trustees advanced the “Street Presence” project, one of the key goals identified in the church’s strategic planning effort. This includes replacement of the main entry doors, restoration of lanterns and signage, and installation of façade lighting. Approval was required and obtained from the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. At the end of 2025, final bid documents had been received, and a contract was being prepared. The Trustees also undertook a significant exterior repair project for our locations at 2095 and 2091 Broadway. The work included repointing mortar joints, replacing parapet coping tiles, repairing brick and metal cladding, and addressing balcony deterioration.

Bid document drawing of our “Street Presence” project, one of the key goals identified in the church’s strategic planning effort, which includes replacement of the main entry doors, restoration of lanterns and signage, and installation of façade lighting. 15

The replacement of the fire safety system was completed, and the carpeting on the upper floors of the commercial building at 2095 Broadway were replaced with porcelain wood-look flooring, providing a more durable and attractive finish. Responding to a request from the Deacons, the Trustees began exploring the renovation of the fifth-floor kitchen for modern use. Recommendations and cost estimates will be provided in 2026. The Trustees collaborated with the church Session on plans to replace pews with chairs and install a new sanctuary floor. Consultants have been retained to conduct tests and help select materials that meet both acoustic and aesthetic needs. Tenant Relations and Building Management Rental income from church properties remains a vital part of Rutgers’ financial stability. During 2025, two major new tenants were secured for the upper floors of 2091 Broadway, which had been vacated the previous October. Ten-year leases were signed with Natural Pilates Upper West Side LLC for the 3rd and 4th floors and with fitness studio LiftNYC for the 2nd floor. Both leases provide for 6 month rent abatements, with the church delivering the spaces in as-is condition. Several small offices in 2095 Broadway will open in 2026, and showings to prospective tenants are underway. Financial stewardship The Investment Subcommittee of the Trustees, comprising Christine Gorman, Scott MacKenzie, Bill O’Donnell, and Dave Mammen, met with representatives from Charles Schwab in each quarter of the year to review the Endowment and Bond Funds and to invest the quarterly contributions from the church operating budget. The church’s investment portfolio remains 50% equities, 30% fixed income, and 20% bonds. Key achievement: Leasing the upper floors of 2091 Broadway restores almost $300,000 in annual revenue to the church. Through careful management, investment prudence, and collaborative planning, Rutgers Presbyterian Church continues to be a secure, vibrant, and welcoming presence on the Upper West Side—sustaining a tradition of faith, service, and community outreach for future generations. Respectfully submitted, Scott MacKenzie, Moderator 16

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE As described in the Session Manual of Administrative Operations, the Personnel Committee oversees and coordinates the reviews of all staff in consultation with the Church Administrator and the Pastor; considers the adequacy of compensation and benefits for the employed staff and makes recommendations to Session; maintains a current personnel manual containing the policies of the church; makes recommendations to Session regarding any staff changes, resignations, or new employees; and has overall oversight of the church employees. During 2025, Lynne Morris served as Chair. Other members were Massimo Maglione, Nancy Muirhead, Lisa Pinto, Suzanne Spears, and Jane Kim. Andrew Stehlik, Senior Pastor and Head of Staff, and Dave Mammen, Church Administrator, assisted. During 2025 the Committee met in March and November, and the Chair was consulted on other occasions. The March meeting was held jointly with the Christian Education committee in light of the resignation of our part-time Christian Educator. The committees observed that Sunday school is wellstaffed by our long-time teachers, and discussed various options for staffing the important work of building relationships with families and contributing to youth activities. Those discussions continue. A staff review of Senior Pastor Andrew Stehlik is being undertaken by Beth Childs, Clerk of Session and Lisa Pinto, member of the Personnel Committee, as requested by the Committee. Key personnel achievement As the year began, the church’s strategic planning initiative reviewed ideas and collected from more than 20 interviews that our consultant had with church leaders around the country. The planning task force concluded that Rutgers Church was doing most of the things other churches suggested, but … people don’t know. The planning task force prioritized hiring of a communications expert to amplify the voice and values of Rutgers Church through engaging messaging that connects our congregation, reaches our community, and inspires action. The planning task force interviewed three qualified candidates and hired Rebecca Lerner as our part-time Communications Manager. She began in April and reports to Senior Pastor Andrew Stehlik and works closely with the Church Administrator, Executive Assistant, and church elders. I think hiring Rebecca is one of the most beneficial decisions to come out of our strategic planning process. She is doing a superb job of crafting engaging narratives out of the things we already do, in a way that’s polished, professional and accessible. She has also been a spark plug for thinking about ways we can maximize the leverage we already have. Her content is fun, inspiring and polished. - Jon Smith Our Communications Manager, Rebecca Lerner, has helped redefine what makes Rutgers Presbyterian Church a vital asset to not only our immediate Congregation/Family but to the Community at large. Rebecca listens to what we have to say and responds with appropriate present-day, direct language. - Richard Reece Respectfully submitted by Lynne Morris, Chair

THE GIVING NETWORK With thanks to the 2025 Members: Katharine Butler, Karen Johnson, Massimo Maglione, Nancy Muirhead, Lane Maurer, Connie Rensink, Zoë Strother (chair) for their time and commitment and to Dave Mammen and the Rutgers’ staff for their administrative support. As described in the Session Manual of Operations, The Giving Network has oversight of the benevolences of the church, determining the local, national and international monetary gift allocations to be recommended for the approval of the Session. In 2025, the Giving Network provided support to 36 organizations. Each year we set priorities that reflect the church’s missions and the most urgent humanitarian needs. Although we reserved some funds for special needs, we set the following priorities for the year: Immigration LGBTQIA communities Ukraine (mindful that Rutgers is a peace church) Environment International aid (with a focus on health and education) Legal aid In 2025, we began to ask representatives from some of the organizations to make a short presentation as a “Moment for Mission” in the Sunday service. This has proved to be popular, as for example, the dynamic visit made by Twyla Carter, Attorney-in-Chief and CEO at the Legal Aid Society on Nov 9, which gave us a snapshot of the struggle to support low-income access to legal representation in civil proceedings in the city.

Twyla Carter, Attorney-in-Chief and CEO at the Legal Aid Society addresses the church on Nov. 9, 2025. 18

The committee takes seriously its financial responsibility to research the budget, expenses, and salaries of the organizations proposed. We also appreciate when members can provide eyewitness reports. For example, thanks to her work travel, Zoë Strother was able to visit Durable Solutions, a small but mighty NGO formally incorporated in 2024 in Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Most people in Congo, outside the big cities, cook over a wood fire. Daily exposure to the smoke triggers asthma and other respiratory conditions. In addition, the search for wood has contributed to deforestation and environmental degradation. After nearly a decade of research, the leaders of Durable Solutions have developed a small stove which burns a small amount of wood and transforms the gases released during the cooking process into clean energy. Whereas it takes 15 kg of wood to cook 5 kg of meat, this improved stove only needs 300 grams of wood. The small factory pictured currently manufactures 4000 stoves/month but aspires to reach 60 million households as they expand with the potential of reducing the loss of 12 metric tons of firewood per day.

The factory staff of Durable Solutions (Kinshasa, DR Congo) in July, 2025.

A pot boils on one of the clean burning wood gasifier stoves that can improve health and reduce environmental devastation.

The Giving Network seeks suggestions from the session, committees, and individual members to determine where to allocate financial support. They prioritize organizations that align with the missions of Rutgers Presbyterian Church, significantly benefit from the level of contribution, dedicate a substantial portion of their funds to ongoing programs, and avoid developing dependency on the church's funding. The committee will continue to focus on the missions of Rutgers Church as it considers giving locally, nationally, and internationally. Other members and friends of Rutgers interested in joining the committee are warmly invited to contact the pastor. Respectfully submitted, Zoë Strother, Chair 19

DIRECTOR OF MUSIC/ORGANIST WORSHIP COMMITTEE 2025 was one of the strongest years for music at Rutgers. In alignment with the mission and values of our church, this year highlighted the meaningful work we do to celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion through music. Beyond our weekly worship services, our program offered an especially eclectic and engaging season. In June 2025, we presented St. Francis in the Americas: A Caribbean Mass by Glenn L. McClure. This vibrant work blended traditional Latin and Caribbean musical styles with the Mass text. The performance featured the NYC-based steel pan ensemble Pan in Motion and showcased the outstanding artistry of our staff singers as soloists. It was a joyful and culturally rich celebration of sacred music. In December 2025, our choir performed Vivaldi’s Magnificat (RV 610/611), a work that is performed far less frequently than it deserves. The choir delivered a beautiful and compelling performance. Because of the piece’s brevity, we expanded our Christmas Carol sing-along, creating a more interactive and engaging experience for the congregation.

An Old-Fashioned Christmas Sing-a-long on December 2nd, 2025 20

I am especially grateful for our summer soloists, who bring energy and excellence to our worship services during the summer months. This year’s soloists included Jane Thorngren, Beverly Thiele, Candice Shaughnessy, Nick Wuerhmann, Justin Zang, and Zach Nicely. These services highlight the remarkable talent within our choir and help keep our summer worship vibrant and joyful. One of the most meaningful aspects of our music program is its outreach and impact within the surrounding community, particularly among guests from the Thursday Night Meal Program. After concerts, visitors often express gratitude for the opportunity to experience high-quality music in a welcoming, judgment-free space. In a genre sometimes perceived as inaccessible, we can share our Godgiven talents openly and generously. Being part of the Rutgers ministry is a privilege shared by all our volunteer and staff musicians. We are deeply thankful to contribute to worship and community life through this special and meaningful ministry. Respectfully submitted, Gabriel Evans, Director of Music

The choir members enjoying each other's company outside of church! 21

PEACE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE The New Year of 2025 brought us many opportunities and possibilities to engage with our Rutgers family and our extended community. We started off by looking back at the writings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr (MLK in 1967) and used the readings and discussions to inspire us to action. Throughout the year we came together and created protest signs; invited family, friends and neighbors and donned our most comfortable shoes and joined our fellow New Yorkers at marches. Some of us marched outside of NYC and participated wherever we happened to be. For the second nationwide NO KINGS protest in October, we again opened our doors and invited folks to join us. We welcomed a large number of our neighbors and friends who marched alongside our Rutgers members. As a church dedicated to Peace the past year has been particularly challenging. Witnessing the deportation of our neighbors, deployment of the National Guard in American cities, military attacks throughout the world: Venezuela, Yemen, Somalia, Nigeria, Syria, Iraq & Iran. Our prayers for peace include the ongoing tragedies in Gaza and Israel. We opened our doors and our hearts to host the Parents Circle-Families Forum. This evening included the showing of a film and discussion with bereaved families from Israel & Palestine who are promoting reconciliation and peace. As we enter into 2026, the P&SJN is already meeting and busily creating statements against the abduction and kidnapping of the Venezuelan President and his wife. Our opposition to creating chaos and disruption throughout the world is ongoing. Our deep commitment to peaceful protest and knowledge is fierce. Respectfully submitted, Lili Bohan 22

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Community Programs had a busy year, welcoming new families and staff along with continuing to create dynamic programming for families. Budding performers put on a wonderful ballet recital in the spring. Our 2-year-olds went from being hesitant to separate from their trusted adults to walking into class with enthusiasm and confidence. Young artists created beautiful paintings, collages, and crafts. Threeand four-year-olds worked on various projects, developing important skills in collaboration, communication, and planning. Though our enrollment numbers were good in 2025, at or near capacity in several classes, we do not measure our success by numbers and metrics. Our mission is to help children grow, learn, express themselves creatively, and to work with parents to build a good foundation for children to be ready for kindergarten and beyond.

Parenting today is hard. Pressures on family life come from all sides—from demanding jobs, social media posts, books, and articles by parenting experts touting the latest child-rearing advice, and from their own understandable anxiety about making sure their children are learning and feel loved. I'm also proud that we are an inclusive community that, unlike many similar programs, does not pre-screen before enrolling a child in our classrooms. Our small class sizes enable us to really get to know each child, and we work closely with families to ensure every student gets the support they need to thrive. Whether it's helping parents navigate the transition to elementary school, connecting families with helpful resources, advocating for support services alongside parents, or welcoming specialists to provide professional development for our staff, we work diligently to help our kids develop and be ready for whatever comes next once they've 'graduated' from Rutgers! I appreciate all the parents who entrusted their children to our care and worked in tandem with us to support their children’s growth in 2025. I am thankful for the dedicated, talented, and hardworking teachers that created enriching activities in their classrooms. I am grateful to Rutgers staff, Session members, and the congregation for providing the support we need to do this rewarding and important work. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Moore, Director of Rutgers Community Programs 24

WORSHIP COMMITTEE As in years past 2025 found the Worship Committee busy as usual. Worship remained the center of Church Life nourishing us for the many tasks we are privileged to be a part of in this Community of Faith. One major accomplishment was the project involving replacing our existing pews with chairs and modifying some of the pews to allow for flexibility. The project was presented to the Session and was approved. The chairs are in production and expected delivery will be at the end of Summer when we anticipate the much-needed new flooring in the Sanctuary will be completed. Currently, the plan is to have Summer Worship services on the 5th floor as in past Summers. These changes to the Sanctuary will increase accessibility to the needs of the Community at large, showing Rutgers as vital and progressive. We will be able to invite the guests of our Thursday Ulla Farmer Meal Program to sit at tables in the Sanctuary and there will be more flexibility for the Tuesday at Rutgers events and the opportunities for unique and varied Sunday Worship are enhanced. Thanks to Pastor Andrew, Gabe Evans, Sara Latta, Scott MacKenzie, Lynne Morris, Susan Scherer, and Bob Shelton. Janara Kellerman, Dermonte Alleyne, and the entire Church Facilities Staff for their dedication to this Community of Faith and a special salute to the Rutgers Choir whose exceptional contributions are vital to Worship and Music throughout the Church year.

Respectfully submitted by Richard Reece, Chair of the Worship Committee

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION 2025 – A Thriving Community of Children and Youth Throughout 2025, our congregation continued to care for and nurture a living community of children and youth. This ministry has been shaped by steady presence, shared responsibility, and a spirit of welcome that reflects the values of our church. Sunday School and Shared Spiritual Formation On Sundays, our children are welcomed, cared for, and gently guided by a devoted team of Sunday School teachers: Wanda Diaz, Marie McKenna-Aguire, and Edith Mutindi Kavoo, our Global Sunday School Fellow. Most Sundays, children are present in worship with a wide range of ages. This diversity has become a strength. We have embraced an approach similar to that of large families, where older children naturally assist teachers and help care for younger ones. In doing so, they learn patience, responsibility, and how to relate across generations. Parents also take part in Sunday School—some occasionally, others more regularly—creating opportunities for shared spiritual time between parents and children and strengthening bonds within families and the wider church. Youth Leadership and Participation in Worship Our annual Youth Sunday was once again a meaningful moment in the life of the congregation. During this service, the Vera Roberts Scholarships were awarded and worship was led largely by our youth. The homily was notably shared by one of our atheist members, offering a thoughtful and honest reflection that many found both surprising and deeply moving. During the service, Jean-Luc read fluently from the oldest Bible in our church library, navigating quadrate script and Elizabethan English with confidence and care. Later in the summer, we celebrated the completion of the Confirmation Class with three young people: Jack Bessonette, Nina McAfee, and Phoenic McAfee. Their journey reflected commitment, curiosity, and the support of the wider church. 26

Youth Activities and Learning Beyond the Church Over the course of the year, several youth outings and shared experiences took place. These included recreational activities such as bowling, as well as educational and interfaith opportunities, including a visit and guided tour of a local Buddhist Temple. The youth group also visited Strawberry Fields, where they explored the history and meaning of the Beatles’ song and discussed the themes of John Lennon’s Imagine. These outings created space for conversation, listening, and reflection, as well as simple enjoyment of being together. Most recently, another bowling outing was organized with the generous preparation and support of youth parents, highlighting the ongoing partnership between families and the church. Christmas Pageant The annual Christmas Pageant was written, prepared, and directed by Heather Tait, continuing a long-standing and much-loved tradition. All available children and youth participated, alongside several parents. As in previous years, the pageant offered a joyful, intergenerational retelling of the Christmas story and a visible expression of shared ministry. Service to the Community Every third Thursday, church youth volunteer with the Ulla Farmer Meal Program, putting their faith into action through compassionate engagement with our neighbors. Conclusion The CE Committee looks forward to working with Session and the Personnel Committee to discern our long-term plans for Christian Education. Respectfully submitted by Lynne Morris and Jonathan Smith, for the CE Committee

IN THE SANCTUARY 2025 marked the third year of Rutgers’ In The Sanctuary series, offering free (or mostly free) cultural events on Tuesdays from January through June and September through December. Our focus this year was to build our audience by continuing to diversify our range of events—interesting public forums, wellness workshops, photography & art exhibitions, multi-media theater experiences, not to mention an eclectic mix of music, from classical to jazz to opera to video game scores and the first annual old fashioned Christmas singalong! Attendance has grown every year, with this year really showing a significant rise. A good sign that “getting the word out” just might be working in the community was that many “first timers” attended this year, with a few saying a variation of “I’ve passed by this church often, but never knew that THIS was going on here!” We were also pleased to welcome visitors from outside the neighborhood, who came through our doors because we were offering events they simply couldn’t find elsewhere. Some highlights: Manhattan’s first video game orchestra, Press Start performed to a sold-out crowd of new faces. Popular Bach aficionado and organist Evan Shinners came in from London and wowed the crowd. Cutting-edge, multimedia events Myself Two Seconds to Cry and playwright Octavia Washington’s reading of her new play PB&J For The End Times blended images, film, live music and storytelling.

We celebrated both the old and new in truly meaningful ways: From the newly formed Otaku Choir performing their very first (ever!) public concert for a packed audience, to the 20th anniversary celebration of the remarkable Granny Peace Brigade, which ended with a rousing rendition of “We Shall Overcome.” At the end of the Press Start concert in May, an audience member said when he was a little boy, he used to play the video game “Yoshi’s Island” all the time with his father, and he was so happy to hear the music from that game being performed that night because his dad had just passed away a few weeks prior to the concert. Following our Hope For The Holidays concert, a guest commented, “This is the most meaningful concert I have ever been to in my life.” We are truly grateful to have had the opportunity to host such an interesting roster of artists, all who offered so much of themselves to these amazing evenings, and we look forward to more exciting events in 2026. Respectfully submitted, Lesley Countryman and Peter Rinaldi

INTRODUCTION TO NEW AMERICANS ACTIVITIES

During 2025 Rutgers Presbyterian Church responded to anti-immigration policies and rhetoric by continuing our efforts in support of New Americans, as you will learn from the individual reports that follow from the Asylum Support Clinic, Welcome Home Jersey City, and Refugee Employment Partnership. Our work this past year culminated in an event held in the sanctuary on November 19, 2025 titled “Beyond Welcome: Ten Years of Community Commitment to Refugees”. As Pastor Andrew explained in his welcoming remarks, we came together partly to celebrate, partly to learn, and partly to regain a new vision. The evening featured a conversation with Jamil Akbari about his family’s lived experience, from being welcomed as refugees from Afghanistan in 2021 to feeling they belong in their new lives in Jersey City. There followed a conversation about current efforts with Richard Fields, Edgar Ochoa, Dave Mammen and myself. In her concluding remarks, Nancy Muirhead observed that our work has evolved over the years as the threats to immigrants has grown, and we are really resolved to continue to adapt and to deepen our efforts to support vulnerable new Americans. She noted that we do not see refugees as vulnerable victims or threats to our security; refugees who are resettling are our neighbors and contributors to community life as new Americans and their successful integration is our shared civic and moral responsibility. She reminded us that our church is not measured by size, but by welcome, and she thanked everyone for standing with us as we continue to choose welcome. Respectfully submitted by Karen Johnson, Session liaison for the New Americans programs 30

ASYLUM SUPPORT CLINIC

The Asylum Support Clinic helped 196 individuals apply for asylum (420 when spouse and/or children are included), since the clinic launched in the fall of 2022. Those asylum seekers come from 27 different countries, including Algeria, Guinea, Ecuador, Haiti, Jamaica, Ukraine and Venezuela. In addition, we submitted over 190 work authorization applications. In July 2025, the current administration imposed a harsh new fee of $550 on work applications, when it used to be free for asylum seekers. ASC made a commitment to raise funds to cover those fees for as long as possible. Since August, we have covered nearly $22,000 in work authorization fees, thereby providing a path to a more secure future for 40 asylum seekers and their families. One key achievement is the way the clinic responded to the shrinking pool of asylum seekers. In September 2025, we added an additional component to the services we provide. We now invite past participants back to the clinic and help them prepare a Declaration or longer personal narrative, something that bolsters their credibility and can strengthen their asylum claim. 31

We also began to assist families complete family preparedness documents, so a parental designee is in place, in the heartbreaking scenario that a parent is detained and separated from their children. Lastly, ASC formed a partnership with Sacred Court Support (SCS), an interfaith immigration court accompaniment group, so ASC participants no longer have to go to immigration court on their own. You can get a sense of how ASC holistically supports asylum seekers, by looking at the various ways we assisted one family. Over the course of 2 ½ years, ASC helped N and her family in their effort to create a life in the US, free from the extraordinary dangers they escaped when they left Honduras. June 2023, we helped N submit an asylum application, with her two daughters included as derivatives. N returned to the clinic and applied for her work permit. The government would not recognize the younger daughter S, so we helped S file her own asylum application in April 2025. In September, N completed a family preparedness form, in the event that she is detained and her kids are not. S applied for her work permit. In October, N worked with volunteers to prepare her Declaration, including a country conditions report, in support of her asylum application. In November, N married her long-term partner, so ASC invited N to the clinic and amended her asylum application to include her husband. Through SCS, ASC volunteers accompanied the newlyweds to court. The government attorney made a motion to deport N and her husband to Guatemala, a place where they also do not feel safe. In response, ASC prepared a country conditions report focused on Guatemala, to help counter the government’s attempt to deport them there. Our efforts on behalf of N and her family are just one example of what we do: assist asylum seekers as they navigate an incredibly complicated, inhumane and unfair system. Respectfully submitted by Sherri Levine, Program Manager 32

WELCOME HOME JERSEY CITY

Small moments of play can be a shortcut to belonging. During 2025 Church Administrator Dave Mammen continued to serve as Chair of this community based nonprofit organization that is helping about 400 refugees and other immigrants who have resettled in Jersey City. The church also provided financial support. Welcome Home friends, staff and volunteers met on the campus of Saint Peter’s University most Mondays to have dinner, receive homework help and play games, practice conversational ESL, and connect for assistance. The university generously provided facilities at no cost, and faculty and students joined in. Volunteers also worked throughout the year to obtain and distribute food, clothing, school supplies and many other items that families need. Many local schools, youth groups, and other organizations contributed volunteers and donated goods and services, and several hundred individuals made donations. This is a testament to the desire of many to help refugees and to the reputation of Welcome Home as a trusted organization. During this time of fear and uncertainty surrounding immigration policy and practice the board, staff and volunteers also served as a trusted source of information. Know Your Rights workshops helped our friends be ready for possible scenarios. 33

During 2025, new arrivals were suspended, and Welcome Home began to pivot from initial welcome and reception to efforts that foster successful long-term integration of those who are here. The organization is promoting understanding about the many challenges to achieving this: Refugees often struggle to find secure and meaningful employment, compounded by limited access to affordable childcare. Limited English proficiency can restrict access to employment, education, healthcare, and social connection. The lack of secure and affordable housing—particularly at the lower end of the rental market—undermines stability. Adjusting to a new cultural environment and building relationships with local residents can be difficult without structured, ongoing support. These challenges underscore the need for comprehensive, community-centered, and long-term strategies. Fundamentally, local capacity matters. Jersey City has just elected a progressive Mayor, James Solomon, and Dave is preparing to discuss how Welcome Home can help make Jersey City a powerful and leading example of a holistic, refugee-centered, community-supported model of resettlement. A full Annual Report can be found here. One of the key achievements of the year was our November event, Beyond Welcome: 10 years of Community Commitment to Refugees. Friends were invited to share about their experience coming to the U.S. and resettling in Jersey City. Welcome Home acknowledges their lived experience with respect.

Members of the Afghan “Women in Action” group proudly display their Certificates of Completion. Throughout the year Maryam Khardoush from the International Rescue Committee hosted sessions during Fun Club for a “Women in Action” group composed of Afghan women. They took part in a Home Health Aide certification program and are now able to seek employment as aides. The group also began collaborating with ESL volunteers to incorporate conversational English into their sessions. And a grant from the Jewish Women’s Foundation of New Jersey covered the cost of driving lessons for those in the group who had their learning permits. Welcome Home is forging a new narrative about refugee resettlement. Thanks to the church for its ongoing support of these efforts.

What helped you feel at home in Jersey City? My daycare - The help of government - The people are nice Respectfully submitted by Dave Mammen, Chair

REFUGEE EMPLOYMENT PARTNERSHIP Now in our eighth year, the Refugee Employment Partnership (REP) continues its mission of helping refugees and asylees secure safe, dignified employment and launch careers. We welcome job seekers who are typically referred by other social service organizations and who have lawful immigration status, work authorization, and basic English skills or higher. Since our founding in 2017, REP has placed 275 people from more than 50 countries. Our approach combines one-on-one mentoring by a dedicated volunteer corps with job development activities – mainly making introductions to recruiters within the trusted network of employers we have built over the years. Roughly 70% of placements are made with network employers, and about 30% with employers outside the network. In both cases, success is strongly supported by thoughtful mentoring, resume assistance, and targeted interview coaching. Our clients vary widely in education, work experience, skill level, and English proficiency. For highly skilled professionals, it can be challenging to secure positions commensurate with prior experience. We always begin by aiming high— pursuing roles in the client’s field that match their capabilities. If a placement has not been made after many weeks of casework, mentors will often recommend adjusting the job target.

72 job placements in 2025: The most by far since we started in 2017. When clients can only find work below their prior level, we connect them to resources for after-work study and training so they can build a long-term plan to advance over time. English proficiency is often a key barrier, so we are fortunate to have a volunteer who is a veteran ESL teacher and who assesses clients and recommends appropriate language study plans. REP often helps cover the cost of English classes, accent reduction coaching, and job trainings such as New York State security guard certification. When clients wish to pursue more advanced study, we help them navigate admissions options at CUNY and other local schools. 36

Esther Ruhi fled persecution in Kenya, and was struggling to survive in NYC. She had a business degree, but with no connections couldn’t find a job. Her REP mentor spotted a job at Chase Bank where we have a relationship. Our coaching and introduction helped her become an Associate Banker.

REP frequently welcomes back clients back for a second—or even third—job search as they take the next steps in their careers. These returning cases are especially rewarding, as they often bring clients closer to re-entering the fields and professions they pursued in their home countries. We are deeply grateful to Rutgers Presbyterian Church for its years of generous financial and moral support and for serving as our fiscal sponsor, which enables REP to receive donations without the burden of establishing and maintaining independent nonprofit status. We strive to keep operating expenses to a bare minimum. REP has two full-time employees; office space is donated by Congregation B’nai Jeshurun; and our Executive Director and founder, Richard Fields, works without compensation. The program’s success is largely due to our volunteers – about 20 in number. Many have been with REP since the beginning, and their commitment is truly inspiring.

Respectfully submitted by David Coleman, Program Director 37

SCOUTS A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. This is the Scout Law that we recite at the beginning and end of every meeting. It is a code that Scouts from 6 to 100 learn to live by in their everyday life. Take, for example, our annual whitewater camping trip. The Scouts plan the budget and shop for food they need (thrifty). They gather the equipment, loading everything into the van that we travel in (helpful). When we reach the camping site, they unload and are responsible for setting up their tents and arranging the food and cooking supplies so that they’re handy but out of reach of animals. Sometimes setting up camp requires another skill, resourceful. On this year’s trip we found out that the poles for one of the tents were broken. So they discovered a way to lash the tent to a tree and use what was left of the poles to prop it open so it provided space to sleep. (This also precipitated a thorough review of all tents when we got back to New York so that this didn’t happen again.) Then it came time to climb into a raft with their fellow Scouts and tackle the Class 4 rapids. They had to be helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, cheerful, and for the one Scout who had never been whitewater rafting, brave. Another example of the Scout Law in action is when a Scout plans and executes an Eagle project. Eagle is the highest rank in Scouting, and requires many steps. First the Scout must complete the requirements for at least 13 merit badges, including ones for citizenship, first aid, personal management, and physical skills, among others. They then need to plan a project to benefit a community-based organization. This year’s Eagle project was designed to help the more marginalized of our community. It involved conversations with the homeless on the street, and with those coming to the meal program that Rutgers Church provides for those in need of help. Conversations were not led by the interviewer, allowing participants to express their own thoughts. These conversations were edited, and exist on the web for all to listen to (https://youtube.com/live/bJXaPqNCvnQ). They were also made available to City officials who might be in a position to help. Respectfully submitted, Louisa Anderson-Berry (on behalf of all 664 Scout leaders) Scoutmaster, Troop 664 38

2025 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING FOR ELECTION OF OFFICERS November 23, 2025 The meeting was called to order by Rev. Ondrej Stehlik at 11:59 AM and a quorum was declared. The meeting opened with prayer and a statement of contrition to native peoples. Representing the Nominating Committee, Elder Sara Latta, Chairperson, read the incoming slate of officers, as follows: Board of Trustees: Class of 2029 – Elizabeth Jacobson, Carl Lindskoog Session: Class of 2029 – Beth Childs, Richard Reece, John LoCicero Deacons: Class of 2029 – Susan Scherer, Penny Scheer, - 3 openings Class of 2028 – 1 opening Congregational Nominating Committee 2026: Christine Gorman, Ed Kennelly, Nancy Muirhead, Juliet Pritner, Gabriel Manzon There being no nominations from the floor, it was moved and seconded to close nominations from the floor and to vote for the slate in its entirety. The slate was elected unanimously. The slate will be forwarded to Session for its approval at their December meeting. It was moved and seconded to present the minutes at the Annual Meeting in January, 2026. The meeting was closed with the singing of verse 1 of the hymn We All Are One In Mission, and blessing by Rev. Stehlik. The meeting concluded at 12:10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Beth Childs Clerk of Session

2025 ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING MINUTES The 228th Annual Congregational Meeting was called to order at 1:14 PM by Pastor Stehlik after a lovely meal served by the RPC Deacons. Hymn - #315 – “In the Midst of New Dimensions” vs. 1-3 was sung, followed by prayer. A quorum was declared by Pastor Ondrej (Andrew) Stehlik. Reading of the Rutgers Church Mission Statement: AS FOLLOWERS OF JESUS CHRIST, WE REJOICE IN GOD’S PLAN FOR A JUST, LOVING AND PEACEFUL WORLD, AND WE COMMIT OURSELVES TO MAKING IT A REALITY FOR ALL PEOPLE EVERYWHERE. Highlights of Pastor’s Report were given by Pastor Stehlik Due to technical glitches, the Treasurer’s Report was given by Dave Mammen on behalf of Treasurer Christine Gorman, following action on Pastor’s Compensation package which was approved unanimously. Highlights of the Church Administrator’s Report including thanks to Church staff were provided by Dave Mammen, followed by Q&A and general discussion. Highlights of Reports and their Reception, including Q&A, were provided as follows: Boards Deacons – Ed Kennelly Trustees – Scott MacKenzie Committees Worship Committee – Rick Reece Christian Education – Marie McKenna Aguire Giving Network – Connie Rensink Peace and Social Justice – Lili Bohan Other Activities Community Programs – Jennifer Moore (including video clips of various activities) New Americans – Karen Johnson Boy Scouts – Louisa Berry Tuesday at Rutgers – Lesley Countryman (including highlights video) Action on the Minutes of the Current Meeting included motion: “that the reading of the Minutes be waived and the Minutes be accepted, and reviewed by the February Session.” was made, seconded, and unanimously approved. Adjournment of the Meeting and Closing Prayer was given by Pastor Stehlik, followed by the singing of Hymn - #315 – “In the Midst of New Dimensions” vs. 4-5 Meeting concluded at 3:10 PM. Respectfully Submitted, Beth Childs Clerk of Session

NOTES