Name  St Bartholomew's Church, Cherry Hill

Founded  1961

Rector  The Reverend Peter T. Manzo

Parishioners  400 parishioners

Three words to describe the parish  Caring, committed, diverse

Why visit  To share community and take part in the eucharist with beautiful people! And we take that out into the world through our support for—and fellowship with—all people in need. We like to say, “It ain’t just liturgy!” As well, our beautiful building helps us communicate with God and enjoy sharing time with one another.

Accomplishment you’re proud of  We’ve worked hard recently to ensure that our facilities are in good order. It may not be exciting, but it’s important: our transept walls were replaced. And we’ve created a memorial garden, for the interment of ashes, something we’ve wanted to do for some time. It’s a beautiful area.

Key event in history The event is ongoing! We’ve grown to be one of the largest parishes in the diocese. This is due to both the stability and continuity of clergy leadership and the quality of lay leadership. Since our founding, we’ve only had two previous rectors. And lay people at St Bartholomew’s are committed and enthusiastic—they make things happen.

Greatest challenge  They’re two linked challenges: To make ourselves even better known in the community and to draw in young adults. And related to the latter challenge: to work on better programming and better programs for our youth and young adults.

Theme hymn  “O for a Closer Walk with God.” It’s what we try to do here all the time. Next: St John's Church, Elizabeth