We’re connecting with the national church
We work with the national church at a number of levels through various programs and ministries. For instance, we participate in the Church Pension Fund’s “Fresh Start” initiative for ordained persons and are joining in the new Alleluia Fund initiative, where parishes support ministries in their own dioceses. And seven of our innovative parish programs have been awarded national church Jubilee Center status.

Closer to home, New Jersey proved a good friend and neighbor to the Diocese of New York after the devastation of the World Trade Center. Parish after parish has traveled to the city to assist with everything from clean up to meal preparation. St John’s, Elizabeth—only 17 miles from New York City—has been a stalwart supporter in the months following 11 September.

We’re practicing ecumenism
We work on a number of fronts with other denominations and faith traditions. Of particular note is Interfaith Hospitality Network, a national effort that began right here in New Jersey. When homeless families seek housing, parishes take turns providing overnight lodging and meals for three to five families for a week. Many of our parishes are founding members or hosting parishes—or both.

We’re developing firm alliances with our colleagues in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, working closely with the Lutheran synod in New Jersey.

Next: We're dealing with our finances