Presbyterian Joint Worship Service Held Between the Plainfields

On September 27th a joint worship service was held at Bethel Presbyterian Church in Plainfield, New Jersey.
Bethel Presbyterian hosted Watchung Avenue Presbyterian Church from North Plainfield. This joint service was inspired by Garret Hansen from Watchung, who wanted to reach out to the community following the violence in South Carolina. Pastor’s Johnathan Williams and Byron Leasure lead the congregation’s thru service where both spoke of tolerance, healing and forgiveness.
After the service, which was highlighted by vocals from a “collective” choir, there was a wonderful luncheon provided by the Bethel membership. After a prayer by Pastor Williams, we all enjoyed the conversation, camaraderie and delicious food graciously prepared by our hosts.
Just prior to sharing lunch, Pastor Leasure challenged everyone to share their feelings with those in attendance, about how they felt about the violence that took place in South Carolina.
Many people spoke of their reaction to the events and we all agreed that it was a tragedy that could not be understood and should not be tolerated. Some of the members from Bethel Church recanted their experience with racism and it was humbling to hear their words. The service and luncheon was a wonderful example of how we must all work together and with Faith as a common ingredient.
Both Bethel and WAPC have agreed to meet again and continue communications on the subject.