Newark, NJ



Welcome to Elmwood's Central Campus

 

We are glad that you took time to visit our Elmwood Central site. Allow me to briefly tell you a bit about Elmwood Central. Elmwood Central is the result of the merger of the former Central Presbyterian Church of Newark and Elmwood United Presbyterian Church in March, 2007. The Central Presbyterian Church suffered a devastating fire in August, 1995 leaving it without a facility for over four years. Even after returning to its refurbished sanctuary in 1999, the membership continued to decline. The Session of Elmwood invited the Session of the Central Church to engage in merger discussions as a means of reversing the membership decline and building a strong ministry presence in the South Ward of Newark. After long months of prayer, negotiations and hard work, the two congregations approved the merger. The Presbytery of Newark concurred. And, Elmwood Central was officially established as Elmwoods third campus.

Much has happened at Elmwood Central since 2007. Attendance at worship has increased from an average of 35 to an average of approximately 120. Elmwood has undertaken a capital campaign to further renovate the Elmwood Central Campus. The renovation will include a new fellowship hall, classrooms, offices, restrooms, and a kitchen. This much needed work will allow Elmwood Central to extend its reach --- across the sanctuary, across the street, and across the sea. Elmwood has pledged $1.6 million to the capital campaign, $1 million of which is earmarked for the Elmwood Central renovation.

Elmwood Central is Elmwood's fastest growing campus in terms of average attendance. It is an exciting campus with a strong desire to grow and positively impact its community. Currently, the Elmwood Central Campus consists primarily of the sanctuary which was the only portion of the facility renovated after the 1995 fire. Not having space beyond the sanctuary has severely hampered the growth and development of Elmwood Central. Elmwood Central is excited about the renovation work which will begin this spring and welcomes all those who have a pioneering spirit and a desire to help establish a powerful presence in the Clinton Hill section of Newark.

Inadequate space beyond the sanctuary has not dampened Elmwood Centrals zeal for sustainable, empowering ministry, but has forced us to become more creative. We have not allowed the lack of space to prevent us from creating new ways to serve the community. We welcome you to visit with us at Elmwood Central and see if you can envision yourself being a part of what God is doing in and through us.

For information about Newark Campus Ministries (Click Here).