September 6, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of Kristen Groote’s birthday by Carol Groote.

Camino de Vida Continues: The Anti-Racism Committee is taking on some of the Camino de Vida activities. Saturday 8:15 AM morning services on Ashwood Street (between Broad and Park) will continue and outreach at Delaney Hall. Contact Steve Neiman or Paula Cerdas.

St. John’s Choir is open to high school students through adults and rehearses Wednesdays, 7:30–9:00 PM. Contact Christopher Harlow-Jennings, Director of Music for more information.

Homecoming Sunday, NEXT Sunday. September 13: We will kick-off the fall program year. Services resume at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM. Children’s choirs and faith formation resumes this day. There will be a picnic at Noon. Sign up in the weekly email or on the sheet in the entryway. Please bring a side dish or salad to share.

Children’s Faith Formation for children ages Pre-Kindergarten through 6th Grade. There will be two classes, Pre-K through 1st Grade and 2nd through 6th Grade, Sundays from 10:00-10:30 AM beginning September 13. Contact Deacon Walker for more information.

Children’s Music Ministry: Children’s Choir (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers

(Pre-K–Grade 1) begins September 13 at 9:30AM. Contact Christopher Harlow-Jennings, Director of Music for more information.

Lunch Bunch, Wednesday September 16 from Noon–2:00 PM: We begin another year of biweekly Wednesday Bible study. Bring a lunch. We will delve into the Book of Acts.

Fiesta Latina: Come meet our neighbors and to enjoy a fun night out on the Summit Green on September 18. Sign up in the weekly email announcements.

St. John’s Visiting Professor, September 20: The Rev. Leila M. Ortiz, will be our guest preacher and join us for forum. She is a celebrated leader of the ELCA, who served as bishop of the Metropolitan Washington D.C. Synod and now serves at St. Peter’s in Manhattan. 

Youth Choir and Drumming, September 20 at 4:30 PM: Youth grades 6-8.

Confirmation Orientation, September 20 at 5:30 PM. Youth grades 7-9.

Crafters Needed: The 4th Annual Saint John’s Christmas Market is December 5. We are looking for crafters to donate crafts that we can sell. If you are interested in donating crafts or wish to help volunteer, please contact Izzy Calis.

Snacks Needed for Sunday Morning Fellowship Time, Sundays from 9:00–11:00 AM. Homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. Sign up in the weekly email. Everyone needs to contribute.

Fall Worship Volunteers Needed: See the weekly email to sign up.

 

August 30, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Don and Miriam Peterson by the Peterson families.

House Blessing: Everyone is invited to a House Blessing and Open House at the home of Pastor Blake and Shai (133 Summit Avenue, #10, Summit) TODAY from 3:00–6:00 PM. Parking is available on the street or in the public lot on Deforest Ave.

Fellowship Meeting, September 1 at 7:00 PM.

Choir Resumes: New singers, former choir members, and current singers are welcome, high school students through adults. Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 7:30–9:00 PM beginning September 2. The choir sings most Sundays (SeptemberJune) at the 10:30 AM service. Contact Christopher Harlow-Jennings, Director of Music for more information.

Homecoming Sunday, September 13: Join us as we kick-off the fall program year. Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM followed by a picnic at Noon. Children’s choirs and faith formation resumes this day. Sign up in the weekly email or on the sheet in the entryway. We ask that you bring a side dish or salad to share.

Fiesta Latina: Come meet our neighbors and to enjoy a fun night out on the Summit Green on September 18. Sign up in the weekly email announcements.

Youth Choir and Drumming, September 20 at 4:30 PM: Youth grades 6-8.

Confirmation Orientation, September 20 at 5:30 PM. Youth grades 7-9.

Crafters Needed: The 4th Annual Saint John’s Christmas Market is December 5. We are looking for crafters to donate crafts that we can sell. If you are interested in donating crafts or wish to help volunteer, please contact Izzy Calis.

Snacks Needed for Sunday Morning Fellowship Time, Sundays from 9:00–11:00 AM. Homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. This is a major community building endeavor of the church that we all enjoy so we all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

 

August 23, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of Becca & Bobby’s wedding by the Cristino family.

Special thanks to Wayne Dietterick for serving as our supply organist this weekend while Christopher is away.

Youth Group, TONIGHT at 7:00 PM. Meet at the church.

House Blessing: Everyone is invited to a House Blessing and Open House at the home of Pastor Blake and Shai (133 Summit Avenue, #10, Summit) on August 30 from 3:00–6:00 PM. Parking is available on the street or in the public lot on Deforest Ave.

Choir Resumes: New singers, former choir members, and current singers are welcome, high school students through adults. Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 7:30–9:00 PM beginning September 2. The choir sings most Sundays (SeptemberJune) at the 10:30 AM service. Contact Christopher Harlow-Jennings, Director of Music for more information.

Homecoming Sunday, September 13: Join us as we kick-off the fall program year. Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM followed by a picnic at Noon. Children’s choirs and faith formation resumes this day. Sign up in the weekly email or on the sheet in the entryway. We ask that you bring a side dish or salad to share.

Fiesta Latina: Come meet our neighbors and to enjoy a fun night out on the Summit Green on September 18. Sign up in the weekly email announcements.

Youth Choir and Drumming, September 20 at 4:30 PM: Youth grades 6-8.

Confirmation Orientation, September 20 at 5:30 PM. Youth grades 7-9.

Crafters Needed: The 4th Annual Saint John’s Christmas Market is December 5. We are looking for crafters to donate crafts that we can sell. If you are interested in donating crafts or wish to help volunteer, please contact Izzy Calis.

Snacks Needed for Sunday Morning Fellowship Time, Sundays from 9:00–11:00 AM. Homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. This is a major community building endeavor of the church that we all enjoy so we all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

 

August 16, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of Jean Grabinsky by the Cristino family.

Family Promise Gift Cards are due TODAY.

House Blessing: Everyone is invited to a House Blessing and Open House at the home of Pastor Blake and Shai (133 Summit Avenue, #10, Summit) on August 30 from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. Parking is available on the street or in the public lot on Deforest Ave.

Homecoming Sunday, September 13: Join us as we kick-off the fall program year. Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM followed by a picnic at Noon. Sign up in the weekly email or on the sheet in the entryway. We ask that you bring a side dish or salad to share.

Evangelism Opportunities: We are a sponsor for several events on the Summit Green this summer. We need members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! September 18 is Fiesta Latina. See the weekly email to sign up for this or any of the upcoming events.

Crafters Needed: The 4th Annual Saint John’s Christmas Market is December 5. We are looking for crafters to donate crafts that we can sell. If you are interested in donating crafts or wish to help volunteer, please contact Izzy Calis.

Snacks Needed for Sunday Morning Fellowship Time, Sundays from 9:00–11:00 AM. Homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. This is a major community building endeavor of the church that we all enjoy so we all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

 

August 9, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God in memory of George E. Leelike by Susan, Chris, & John Leelike.

Supply Pastor: We welcome the Rev. Dr. Pastor Carol Lindsay as our guest pastor today and thank her for her willingness to lead worship today.

Family Promise Gift Cards: We are collecting ShopRite and Uber gift cards for homeless families through Family Promise. Each card should be a $25 value. All cards are due Sunday, August 16. Please leave them in the envelope in the church office.

Pastor Haydée’s Last Sunday, August 16: Join us as give thanks for Pastor Haydée’s ministry among us as Associate Pastor and Mission Developer of Camino de Vida as she concludes her call. A representative of the Bishop’s Office will be with us in worship. Make sure to share your appreciation and offer your best wishes as she departs from our community.

Evangelism Opportunities: We are a sponsor for several events on the Summit Green this summer. We need members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! September 18 is Fiesta Latina. See the weekly email to sign up for this or any of the upcoming events.

Homecoming Sunday, September 13: Join us as we kick-off the fall program year. Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM followed by a picnic at Noon. Sign up in the weekly email or on the sheet in the entryway. We ask that you bring a side dish or salad to share.

Crafters Needed: The 4th Annual Saint John’s Christmas Market is December 5. We are looking for crafters to donate crafts that we can sell. If you are interested in donating crafts or wish to help volunteer, please contact Izzy Calis.

Snacks Needed for Sunday Morning Fellowship Time, Sundays from 9:00–11:00 AM. Homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. This is a major community building endeavor of the church that we all enjoy so we all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

 

August 2, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of Anna Swing by Pat & Al Jurpalis.

Many thanks to Deacon Linda Walker for preaching and leading worship this morning.

Pastor Haydée’s Last Sunday, August 16: Join us as give thanks for Pastor Haydée’s ministry among us as Associate Pastor and Mission Developer of Camino de Vida as she concludes her call. A representative of the Bishop’s Office will be with us in worship. Make sure to share your appreciation and offer your best wishes as she departs from our community.

Evangelism Opportunities: We are a sponsor for several events on the Summit Green this summer. We need members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! September 18 is Fiesta Latina. See the weekly email to sign up for this or any of the upcoming events.

 

July 26, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God by Ray & Laura Snyder and in memory of Paul & Linda Riffel and Peter & Robin Larsen by the Larsen family.

LSMNJ Backpacks due TODAY.

Youth Group, TONIGHT at 7:00 PM.

Mid-Year Contribution statements were sent out last week to let everyone know their donation status for the first half of 2026. This statement did not include donations made to the Radicle Grace Campaign in 2025. If you would like that information, please look at your 2025 contribution statement or contact Jim Bartsch.

Summer Bridges Run, August 1: The Social Justice Social Ministry committee is sponsoring a BRIDGES Run in Newark. Contact Amy Tomlinson with questions or to sign-up.

Hinman Scholarships: Applications for help with education costs are due August 1. You can access the application via the weekly email. Contact Linda Mesenbrink.

Pastor Colón Hernández Farewell Service: On Sunday, August 16, Pastor Haydee will preach and lead worship on her last Sunday at Saint John’s and Camino de Vida. Synod staff will be with to lead the Conclusion of a Call.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

July 19, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God.

Supply Pastor: We welcome back Pastor Moore as our guest pastor today and thank her for her willingness to lead worship today.

Rummage Sale Update: Thank you to everyone who dropped off items, helped organize and sort items, worked the sale, came to shop, or helped to clean up! We raised $3,400 for the Youth Missions Fund.

LSMNJ Backpack Collection: We are collecting items for students in the LSMNJ’s affordable housing program. Please shop for the supplies and return filled backpacks by July 26. Contact Helen Dachowicz if you have any questions. Shopping lists are in the weekly email and narthex.

Summer Bridges Run, August 1: The Social Justice Social Ministry committee is sponsoring a Bridges Run in Newark. Contact Amy Tomlinson with questions or to sign-up.

Hinman Scholarships: Applications for help with education costs are due August 1. You can access the application via the weekly email. Contact Linda Mesenbrink.

Pastor Colón Hernández Farewell Service: On Sunday, August 16, Pastor Haydee will preach and lead worship on her last Sunday at Saint John’s and Camino de Vida. Synod staff will be with us to lead the Conclusion of a Call.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

July 12, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of their wedding anniversary by Linda & Craig Clark.

Special thanks to Wayne Dietterick for serving as guest organist today.

Rummage Sale Clean Up Help: Volunteers are needed after worship TODAY.

Pastor Blake will be on vacation July 13–August 13. In the event of a pastoral emergency, contact the church office.

Salud Mental: Camino de Vida will be offering the second of a four part educational series on mental health topics in Spanish. This week’s topic on Wednesday at 6:00 PM on July 15 will deal with anxiety. All are welcome. Please share with any Spanish-speaking neighbors and friends. Speak to Pastor Haydée for more information.

LSMNJ Backpack Collection: We are collecting items for students in the LSMNJ’s affordable housing program. Please shop for the supplies and return filled backpacks by July 26. Contact Helen Dachowicz if you have any questions. Drop off begins TODAY. Shopping lists are in the weekly email and in the narthex.

Evangelism Opportunities: We are a sponsor for several events on the Summit Green this summer. We need members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! July 13 is Community Night and September 18 is Fiesta Latina. See the weekly email to sign up for this or any of the upcoming events.

Summer Bridges Run, August 1: The Social Justice Social Ministry committee is sponsoring a BRIDGES Run in Newark. Contact Amy Tomlinson with questions or to sign-up.

Hinman Scholarships: Applications for help with education costs are due August 1. You can access the application via the weekly email. Contact Linda Mesenbrink.

Delaney Hall Detainees’ Family Support: See the weekly email for a list of items being collected to support families waiting to see loved ones at Delaney Hall Detention Center.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

July 5, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of John F. Lose and Susan G. Lose by Susan, Chris, & John Leelike.

TODAY, We welcome The Rev. Bridget Gautieri, ELCA Wittenberg Center Director, as our guest preacher and forum leader after the 9:15 AM service. The Wittenberg Center, based in Martin Luther’s hometown, serves as a connection between the ELCA, the Lutheran World Federation, the Evangelische Kirche Deutschland, and pilgrims to ground zero of the Reformation. St. John’s is a partner congregation of this missionary project.

Rummage Sale: Items may be dropped off TODAY until Noon, Monday, July 6, 5:00 PM–9:15 PM and Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 8:45 AM–9:15 PM. The sale will be Friday and Saturday, July 10–11 from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

LSMNJ Backpack Collection: We are collecting items for students in the LSMNJ’s affordable housing program. Please shop for the supplies and return filled backpacks by July 26. Contact Helen Dachowicz if you have any questions. Drop off begins on Sunday, July 12. Shopping lists are in the weekly email and in the narthex.

Evangelism Opportunities: We are a sponsor for several events on the Summit Green this summer. We need members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! July 13 is Community Night and September 18 is Fiesta Latina. See the weekly email to sign up for this or any of the upcoming events.

Hinman Scholarships: Applications for help with education costs are due August 1. You can access the application via the weekly email. Contact Linda Mesenbrink.

Delaney Hall Detainees’ Family Support: See the weekly email for a list of items being collected to support families waiting to see loved ones at Delaney Hall Detention Center.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

June 28, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God by Rosemary Guttormsson in memory of her husband Steve.

Many thanks to all of our ASP supporters and donors. We raised $4100 during our four week campaign, and all our expenses from vans and gas to meals and ice cream runs should be covered! All our volunteers are in their final preparations for the trip and are getting excited to go. Thank you again for a successful Sponsorship Fundraiser!

Monday Movie Night, June 29 at 7:00 PM. Join us for our last movie night for Pride Month. June 29: All of Us Strangers—A romantic drama that wrestles with loneliness, trauma, and familial rejection.

Missionary Visit, July 5: The Rev. Bridget Gautieri, ELCA Wittenberg Center Director, will be with us as our guest preacher and forum leader after the 9:15 AM service. The Wittenberg Center, based in Martin Luther's hometown, serves as a connection between the ELCA, the Lutheran World Federation, the Evangelische Kirche Deutschland, and pilgrims to ground zero of the Reformation. St. John’s is a partner congregation of this missionary project.

Rummage Sale: Items may be dropped off Sunday, July 5, 8:30 AM–Noon, Monday, July 6, 5:00 PM–9:15 PM and Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 8:45 AM–9:15 PM. The sale will be Friday and Saturday, July 10–11 from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

LSMNJ Backpack Collection: We are collecting items for students in the LSMNJ’s affordable housing program. Please shop for the supplies and return filled backpacks by July 26. Contact Helen Dachowicz if you have any questions. Drop off begins on Sunday, July 12. Shopping lists are in the weekly email.

Hinman Scholarships: Applications for help with education costs are due August 1. You can access the application via the weekly email. Contact Linda Mesenbrink.

Delaney Hall Detainees’ Family Support: See the weekly email for a list of items being collected to support families waiting to see loved ones at Delaney Hall Detention Center.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

June 21, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of their wedding anniversary by Bill & Karen Feezer.

Rearrange the Sanctuary: Please stay after worship TODAY to rearrange the chairs for summer worship.

ASP Fundraiser TODAY: Our Appalachia Service Project volunteers are preparing for their service trip to Perry County, KY. Cash or check accepted.

ASP Skills Training, TODAY at 11:00 AM.

Monday Movie Nights, June 22, & 29 at 7:00 PM. Join us for movie nights for Pride Month. June 22: 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture - A documentary about the anti-gay bias that led to the mistranslation in RSV and the subsequent decades of prejudice. June 29: All of Us Strangers - A romantic drama that wrestles with loneliness, trauma, and familial rejection.

Youth+ BBQ, June 27 at 3:00 PM, at Paula Cerdas’ home.

Pride Sunday, June 28: We have made a public commitment as an RIC congregation to affirm that LGBTQIA+ persons are queerfully and wonderfully made by God. We believe that diversity was God’s idea first, following God’s example we seek to include ALL people.

House Blessing: Everyone is invited to a House Blessing and Open House at the home of Pastor Blake and Shai (133 Summit Avenue, #10, Summit) on Sunday, June 28 from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. Parking is available on the street or in the public lot on Deforest Ave.

Missionary Visit, July 5: The Rev. Bridget Gautieri, ELCA Wittenberg Center Director, will be with us as our guest preacher and forum leader. The Wittenberg Center, based in Martin Luther's hometown, serves as a connection between the ELCA, the Lutheran World Federation, the Evangelische Kirche Deutschland, and pilgrims to ground zero of the Reformation. St. John’s is a partner congregation of this missionary project.

Rummage Sale, July 10–11, 9:00-4:00: Drop off items July 5–July 8.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Delaney Hall Detainees’ Family Support: See the weekly email for a list of items being collected to support families waiting to see loved ones at Delaney Hall Detention Center.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

June 14, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in thanksgiving for Bill, Nancy, Jane, Jama, and Zach Bowman by St. John’s Staff.

Summer Worship, one service at 9:15 AM, June 21 through September 6.

ASP Fundraiser TODAY: Our Appalachia Service Project volunteers are preparing for their service trip to Perry County, KY. Cash or check accepted.

Summit Has Pride, Saturday, TODAY, at 3:00 PM on the Village Green, to support the LGBTQIA+ community. We need St. John’s members to be representatives of our congregation.

Monday Movie Nights, June 15, 22, & 29 at 7:00 PM. Join us for movie nights for Pride Month. June 15: A Nice Indian Boy - A romantic comedy that deals with intersectionality of race, culture, sexual orientation, and religion. June 22: 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture - A documentary about the anti-gay bias that led to the mistranslation in RSV and the subsequent decades of prejudice. June 29: All of Us Strangers - A romantic drama that wrestles with loneliness, trauma, and familial rejection.

Lunch Bunch, June 17 from Noon-2:00 PM. Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Salud Mental, June 17 at 6:00 PM: Camino de Vida will be offering a four part educational series on mental health topics in Spanish, also on July 15, August 19, and September 2. Topics for each week are: depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and God in the midst of crisis. All are welcome. Please share with any Spanish-speaking neighbors and friends. Speak to Pastor Haydée for more information.

Juneteenth Events: June 19 & 20: Join us for TWO Celebrations! A community celebration of freedom and culture on Friday, June 19 at 5:30 PM at the YMCA Berkeley Heights (59 Locust Avenue, Berkeley Heights). You must register to attend (see the weekly email). The second event will be Summit's Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 20 from Noon–5:30 PM at the Summit Aquatic Center.

Missionary Visit, July 5: The Rev. Bridget Gautieri, ELCA Wittenberg Center Director, will be with us as our guest preacher and forum leader. The Wittenberg Center, based in Martin Luther's hometown, serves as a connection between the ELCA, the Lutheran World Federation, the Evangelische Kirche Deutschland, and pilgrims to ground zero of the Reformation. St. John’s is a partner congregation of this missionary project.

Rummage Sale, July 10–11, 9:00-4:00: Drop off items July 5–July 8.

Delaney Hall Detainees’ Family Support: See the weekly email for a list of items being collected to support families waiting to see loved ones at Delaney Hall Detention Center.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

June 7, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of Ruth Ann Fullner by the Fullner-Auld family.

Children’s Choir (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

ASP Fundraiser TODAY: Our Appalachia Service Project volunteers are preparing for their upcoming service trip to Perry County, KY. For the next four donors will have the opportunity to support the upcoming service trip. Cash or check accepted.

Music Sunday, TODAY at 10:30 AM: All of St. John’s choirs, ensembles, and instrumentalists will lead in worship today.

Delaney Hall and Immigrant Support Meeting, June 8 at 7:00 PM to discuss some options that we can do to support our immigrant neighbors in this time of heightened ICE activity. We are also collecting items to support families waiting to see loved ones at Delaney Hall detention center. Please see the weekly email for a list of requested items.

Summit Has Pride, Saturday, June 14, at 3:00 PM on the Village Green, to support the LGBTQIA+ community. We need St. John’s members to be representatives of our congregation. See the weekly email to sign up.

Bowmans’ Godspeed & Farewell, June 14: The entire Bowman family will be moving to Kansas at the end of June. On June 14 we will have a Godspeed and Farewell for them in worship, with a celebratory lunch in Hinman Hall to give thanks for their more than three decades of membership and service in nearly every area of ministry within our congregation. 

Monday Movie Nights, June 15, 22, & 29 at 7:00 PM. Join us for movie nights for Pride Month. June 15: A Nice Indian Boy - A romantic comedy that deals with intersectionality of race, culture, sexual orientation, and religion. June 22: 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture - A documentary about the anti-gay bias that led to the mistranslation in RSV and the subsequent decades of prejudice. June 29: All of Us Strangers - A romantic drama that wrestles with loneliness, trauma, and familial rejection.

Juneteenth Events: June 19 & 20: Join us for TWO Juneteenth Celebrations! There is a community celebration of freedom and culture on Friday, June 19 at 5:30 PM at the Summit Area Y, Berkeley Heights location (59 Locust Avenue, Berkeley Heights). You must register to attend (see the weekly email). The second event will be Summit's Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 20 from Noon - 5:30 PM at the Summit Aquatic Center. 

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

May 31, 2026

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Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of Elizabeth and Austin by Stephen & Dianne Miller, and by Janet & Carl Maulbeck in honor of their 50th wedding anniversary.

Children’s Choir (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

ASP Fundraiser begins TODAY: Our Appalachia Service Project volunteers are preparing for their upcoming service trip to Perry County, KY. For the next four donors will have the opportunity to support the upcoming service trip. Cash or check accepted.

Let’s Talk About It Forum on TODAY at 9:00 AM to discuss current events. Many of us feel frustrated, confused, and need a place to discuss. Come for dialogue and ideas for how to respond to current events from our faith perspective.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Diaper Drive diapers DUE TODAY.

Youth Group, TONIGHT at 7:00 PM, for youth grades 7–12.

Fellowship Ministry: With the impending move of the Bowmans, we are facing a period a transition in our congregation life. Consider how to get involved in fellowship and events. See the weekly email to fill out a questionnaire about serving. There will be an initial Fellowship Ministry gathering open to anyone interested in getting involved on Monday June 1 at 7:00 PM.

Graduates: If you have a graduate in the family, please send us a recent photo and a brief sentence or two about their upcoming plans for the future. We’d love to share the good news with the St. John’s community! Materials can be emailed to Jama Bowman by June 1.

Lunch Bunch, June 3 from Noon-2:00 PM. Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Music Sunday, June 7 at 10:30 AM: All of St. John’s choirs, ensembles, and instrumentalists will lead in worship this day.

Godspeed & Farewell, June 7 at 10:30 AM to Darcy Tierney who is moving to California to be closer to family. We will miss Darcy and John even as we wish them well in their new home.

Summit Has Pride, Saturday, June 13, from 5:00 PM on the Village Green, to support the LGBTQIA+ community. We need St. John’s members to be representatives of our congregation. See the weekly email to sign up.

Bowmans’ Godspeed & Farewell, June 14: The entire Bowman family will be moving to Kansas at the end of June. On June 14 we will have a Godspeed and Farewell for them in worship, with a celebratory lunch in Hinman Hall to give thanks for their more than three decades of membership and service in nearly every area of ministry within our congregation. 

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Summer Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

May 24, 2026

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Children’s Choir (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM. All are welcome.

Forum, TODAY at 9:00 AM. Our Congregation Council will provide updates on several ongoing projects and answer questions.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Diaper Drive for ‘Moms Helping Moms’, organized by the Junior League of Summit. Bring in new diapers of any size by May 31 and place them in the bin in the narthex.

Let’s Talk About It Forum on May 31 at 9:00 AM to discuss current events. At present, there is a growing number of local, national, and global concerns. Many of us feel frustrated, confused, and need a place to discuss. Come for dialogue and ideas for how to respond to current events from our faith perspective.

Youth Group, May 31 at 7:30 PM, for youth grades 7–12.

Fellowship Ministry: With the impending move of the Bowmans, we are facing a period a transition in our congregation life. Consider how to get involved in fellowship and events. See the weekly email to fill out a questionnaire about serving. There will be an initial Fellowship Ministry gathering open to anyone interested in getting involved on Monday June 1 at 7:00 PM.

Graduates: If you have a graduate in the family, please send us a recent photo and a brief sentence or two about their upcoming plans for the future. We’d love to share the good news with the St. John’s community! Materials can be emailed to Jama Bowman by June 1.

Music Sunday, June 7 at 10:30 AM: All of St. John’s choirs, ensembles, and instrumentalists will lead in worship this day.

Godspeed & Farewell, June 7 at 10:30 AM to Darcy Tierney who is moving to California to be closer to family. We will miss Darcy and John even as we wish them well in their new home.

Bowmans’ Godspeed & Farewell, June 14: The entire Bowman family will be moving to Kansas at the end of June. On June 14 we will have a Godspeed and Farewell for them in worship, with a celebratory lunch in Hinman Hall to give thanks for their more than three decades of membership and service in nearly every area of ministry within our congregation. 

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

May 17, 2026

For this week’s email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God by Rebecca Johnson in loving memory of her parents Richard L. & Mary E. Peterman and by Joseph Lakra in memory of his grandfather Wilson Sunil Lakra.  

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Bridges Lunches Packing, TODAY, at 9:00 AM we will pack 200 lunches for the May 23 run.

Youth+ Lunch, TODAY at Noon at Ani Ramen House, Summit.

Summit Chorale Concert, entitled Liberty and Justice for All Sunday, TODAY at 5:00 PM at St. John’s. Part of our Festival Music program and the Summit Chorale's season finale, this concert is part of our nation's 250 celebration. Tickets will be $25 in advance or $30 at the door. See the weekly email to buy tickets online.

Bridges Run, May 23. See the weekly email to sign up.

Diaper Drive for ‘Moms Helping Moms’, organized by the Junior League of Summit. Bring in new diapers of any size by May 31 and place them in the bin in the narthex.

Fellowship Ministry: With the impending move of the Bowmans, we are facing a period a transition in our congregation life. Consider how to get involved in fellowship and events. See the weekly email to fill out a questionnaire about serving. There will be an initial Fellowship Ministry gathering open to anyone interested in getting involved on Monday June 1 at 7:00 PM.

Graduates: If you have a graduate in the family, please send us a recent photo and a brief sentence or two about their upcoming plans for the future. We’d love to share the good news with the St. John’s community! Materials can be emailed to Jama Bowman by June 1.

Bowmans’ Godspeed & Farewell, June 14: The entire Bowman family will be moving to Kansas at the end of June. On June 14 we will have a Godspeed and Farewell for them in worship, with a celebratory lunch in Hinman Hall to give thanks for their more than three decades of membership and service in nearly every area of ministry within our congregation. 

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

May 10, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of David Coble’s birthday by the Coble family.  

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Summit Interfaith Council Concert, May 11 at 7:00 PM, Temple Sinai, 208 Summit Avenue: Local houses of worship share music in a night to build community with Songs of Hope and Peace Spring Concert, including the St. John’s Choir. The concert is free and a reception will follow.

Lunch Bunch, May 13 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Bridges Lunches: We are collecting sustainable lunch supplies to give to homeless individuals through Bridges Outreach. Sign up in the narthex or online to donate items and deliver to church no later than 8:00 AM on May 17. On Sunday, May 17 at 9:00 AM we will have an intergenerational event to pack 200 lunch bags.

Youth+ Lunch, May 17 at Noon: Contact Paula Cerdas for information.

Summit Chorale Concert, entitled Liberty and Justice for All Sunday, May 17 at 5:00 PM at St. John’s. Part of our Festival Music program and the Summit Chorale's season finale, this concert is part of our nation's 250 celebration. Tickets will be $25 in advance or $30 at the door. See the weekly email to buy tickets online.

Bridges Run, May 23. See the weekly email to sign up.

Diaper Drive for ‘Moms Helping Moms’, organized by the Junior League of Summit. Bring in new diapers of any size by May 31 and place them in the bin in the narthex.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

May 3, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in celebration of the marriage of Rachel Clark and Christopher English by Linda & Craig Clark.  

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Forum: Immigration Justice, TODAY at 9:00 AM: Hear about advocacy issues including bills that NJ’s Coalition of Religious Leaders are working on for immigration justice. 

Summit’s AAPI Festival, TODAY, 4:00–6:00 PM on the Village Green: The Evangelism committee is organizing St. John’s members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! Sign up in the weekly email for this or any of the upcoming events.

Confirmation Class, TONIGHT, 5:30–7:30 PM.

Cross Roads Wednesdays Away Retreats include prayer and conversation and are open to all people interested in exploring new faith practices. On May 6, Deacon Walker is leading a session entitled, Color and Calm. See the weekly email to register and for more details.

Summit Interfaith Council Concert, May 11 at 7:00 PM, Temple Sinai, 208 Summit Avenue: Local houses of worship share music in a night to build community with Songs of Hope and Peace Spring Concert. The concert is free and a reception will follow.

Bridges Lunches: We are collecting sustainable lunch supplies to give to homeless individuals through Bridges Outreach. Sign up in the narthex or online to donate items and deliver to church no later than 8:00 AM on May 17. On Sunday, May 17 at 9:00 AM we will have an intergenerational event to pack 200 lunch bags.

Summit Chorale Concert, entitled Liberty and Justice for All Sunday, May 17 at 5:00 PM at St. John’s. Part of our Festival Music program and the Summit Chorale's season finale, this concert is part of our nation's 250 celebration. Tickets will be $25 in advance or $30 at the door. See the weekly email to buy tickets online.

Bridges Run, May 23. See the weekly email to sign up.

Diaper Drive for ‘Moms Helping Moms’, organized by the Junior League of Summit. Bring in new diapers of any size by May 31 and place them in the bin in the narthex.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

 

April 26, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of Bertha & Paul Reiling by Joy Petzinger.

Forum—Let’s Talk About It, TODAY at 9:00 AM: Come for dialogue and ideas for how to respond to current events from our faith perspective.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Choral Vespers, TODAY at 4:00 PM: Join the St. John’s Choir to celebrate Eastertide with the music of J.S. Bach and congregational hymns of the season.

Lunch Bunch, April 29 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Forum: Immigration Justice, May 3 at 9:00 AM: Hear about advocacy issues including bills that NJ’s Coalition of Religious Leaders are working on for immigration justice. 

Cross Roads Wednesdays Away Retreats include prayer and conversation and are open to all people interested in exploring new faith practices. On May 6, Deacon Walker is leading a session entitled, Color and Calm. See the weekly email to register and for more details.

Summit’s AAPI Festival, May 9, 4:00–6:00 PM on the Village Green: The Evangelism committee is organizing St. John’s members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! Sign up in the weekly email .

Summit Interfaith Council Concert, May 11 at 7:00 PM, Temple Sinai, 208 Summit Avenue: Local houses of worship share music in a night to build community with Songs of Hope and Peace Spring Concert. St. John’s Choir will be participating. The concert is free and a reception will follow. Please bring non-perishables for the Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry.

Bridges Lunches: We are collecting sustainable lunch supplies to give to homeless individuals through Bridges Outreach. Sign up in the narthex or online to donate items and deliver to church no later than 8:00 AM on May 17. On Sunday, May 17 at 9:00 AM we will have an intergenerational event to pack 200 lunch bags.

Bridges Run, May 23. See the weekly email to sign up.

Diaper Drive for ‘Moms Helping Moms’ beginning on May 1, organized by the Junior League of Summit. Bring in new diapers of any size and place them in the bin in the narthex.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!