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PRESS RELEASE The First Presbyterian Church of Iselin Rev. Jim Thomas believes the way in which a church shows its presence is through its involvement with the community. “I am proud to be the pastor of this church because of its commitment within the congregation and the diverse community at large. We are really excited this year, our 75th anniversary, which will be celebrated on May 25th, the day of the church’s official charter. The First Presbyterian Church of Iselin has been involved in numerous activities, including the CROP Walk, held every year, which brings awareness to the plight of world hunger. Rev. Thomas, together with Faith Longstreet, who leads the Woodbridge Township Women of Faith and Peggy Catalano of the St. James Roman Catholic Church, coordinated the event. The funds collected for the CROP walk are used for needy people around the world, as well as those in the Woodbridge area. In 2007, the walk raised almost $8,000 for Church World Service. As part of the Interfaith Council of Woodbridge, The First Presbyterian Church of Iselin makes a strong effort to reach out to congregations of other faiths to come together for the good of the community. Rev. Thomas has coordinated the 9/11 service held at the Woodbridge Town Hall Memorial for the past two years. During the 1990s, a chance meeting between missionary pastor Christopher Premdas and Dr. Ambubhai Patel led to the formation of The Man-Making Group, who meet in the church building daily from 9:30 am to 12 noon. The group addresses the needs of the Asian-Indian community and has created many programs, including English, citizenship classes, after-school tutoring, and Yoga for Women classes. On February 24, 2008, The First Presbyterian Church of Iselin welcomed the Grace and Truth Church, AG, a Christian Korean congregation, lead by Rev. Byeongseong Lee, to use their facilities for their services. “We are very happy with the warm hospitality the congregation has extended to us,” said Rev. Lee. Last year The First Presbyterian Church of Iselin served as host to the Presbyterian Delegation to the General Assembly of the National Council of Churches of Christ (NCCC), a testament to its efficiency in serving, not only its community, but its church in a national way. Also, effective June 2008, it will serve as a polling location for both primary and national elections. “We are grateful for God’s guidance in leading us in this ministry, and are committed to continue to work for harmony and peace in our diverse community and beyond,” commented Rev. Thomas. The First Presbyterian Church of Iselin welcomes all visitors to attend services and fellowship on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am.
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