OUR HISTORY

Elmwood United Presbyterian Church began on October 1, 1961 as a result of a merger of two former churches, Mount Carmel Presbyterian and Elmwood Presbyterian Church. Several pastors have graced the Elmwood pulpit since Elmwood began. Elmwood's current pastor, the Robert N. Burkins Sr. came to Elmwood in May of 1987 and under his leadership, Elmwood Church has grown in ministry and tripled in size with a current membership of over 1000 persons. Elmwood began a second worship site known as Elmwood @ St. Cloud, in April, 2001. The Elmwood West worship site worships in the township of West Orange.

Since it's beginning, Elmwood has evolved into a youthful congregation, consisting primarily of African Americans and people of African descent between the ages of 30-55. Children, youth and young adults constitute the next category of persons. Given its membership, music for Sunday worship includes a praise band, a praise and worship vocal team, and several choirs that sing a variety of music from Bach to Hip Hop. Worship is warm and lively. Sermons are both inspirational and practical so that congregants are able to apply their faith in everyday situations. Learning at Elmwood is augmented by a variety of bible studies, classes, seminars and retreats for all ages.

Since Elmwood believes it is the responsibility and privilege of believers to share the good news of Jesus Christ in word and deed, the church has developed over 40 ministries designed to meet the needs of the community and church members, and share the Gospel in practical ways. (Click on "Our Ministries" for more information about Elmwood's ministry.) In addition, Elmwood established the Harambee Community Development Initiative, Inc. a not-for-profit corporation that provides educational and training programs for preschoolers through senior adults, and provides office space for new businesses. We invite you to become involved in one or more of our exciting ministries at Elmwood.