At First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford, New Jersey, God is moving in quiet yet powerful ways through a mission committee composed entirely of women — ranging in age from their 30s to their 80s. United by faith and purpose, these women work together to meet local needs and to live out Christ’s call to serve “the least of these.”
Our congregation may be small, but our reach continues to grow. Each month, the committee coordinates community outreach projects that bring comfort, dignity and hope to our neighbors. Among these are walk-in dinners prepared for those experiencing homelessness through Family Promise and care packages for ESL graduates through One World, One Love, a local nonprofit serving immigrant and refugee families.
Through this partnership, we support refugee women who are working hard to learn English and rebuild their lives. Each graduate receives a tote bag filled with essentials — shampoo, conditioner, soap, feminine care items, notebooks, pens and a tablet with a protective case. These small gestures speak volumes, showing that God’s love is present in both word and deed.
We also joined forces with the First Presbyterian Church of Moonachie, New Jersey, to participate in monthly food distribution on the first Saturday of every month. Together, we share not only food but also fellowship, prayer, and encouragement with individuals and families facing food insecurity. Serving side by side with another congregation has strengthened our sense of unity in Christ and shown us that when churches collaborate, the body of Christ shines even brighter.
In the fall, we organized a school-supply drive for local children through Jersey Cares, which serves underprivileged children throughout New Jersey, and a toy collection to ensure every family experiences the joy of Christmas. Through these projects, our members have discovered that mission work isn’t just about giving — it’s about growing together in faith and compassion.
We also see spiritual renewal within our congregation. Many of our volunteers joined initially to help but found their service transforming into a deeper prayer life and sense of purpose. The laughter shared while packing kits or distributing food has become a form of worship in itself — an experience of God’s grace made tangible.
Through this work, we’ve learned that mission is both inward and outward: it strengthens our faith while extending compassion to the wider community. God continues to surprise us with how small acts of service ripple outward, touching lives we may never meet.
We hope our story inspires others across the Presbyterian community to ask, “Where is God already at work around us, and how can we join God?”
Lia Abrams, First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford
Let us join in prayer for:
Brian Henson, Desktop Support Analyst, Information Technology Infrastructure, Administrative Services Group
Jessica Hernandez, Electronic Marketing Associate, Electronic Resources & Strategic Business Development, Presbyterian Publishing Corporation
Let us pray:
Loving God, open our hearts and minds as we share your love with others. As Jesus healed us, lead us also to heal our neighbors, giving hope that they may feel their sense of worth and self-confidence. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
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