Episcopal Community Services of the Diocese of New Jersey (ECS-NJ)

FALL 2025

As the crisp air and golden hues of fall settle in, we’re reminded of the beauty of transformation and the spirit of gratitude that surrounds this season. At ECS-NJ, this time of year brings exciting updates and meaningful moments to celebrate from the success of our recent Gala to the appointment of the Rev. Carolyn Bradley as our new Co-Chair. We’re also opening new doors for engagement, inviting volunteers to join our mission, and offering upcoming webinars to inspire learning and connection. Just as autumn reminds us to pause and reflect on our blessings, we’re grateful for the continued support of our community and the shared work that helps us make a difference across the Diocese of New Jersey.

ECS-NJ hosted its 2025 Gala on Wednesday, September 18th, at Pines Manor in Edison. Nearly 160 guests gathered for an inspiring evening celebrating the theme: I was a Stranger and you welcomed me” taken from Matthew 25:35.

The program featured a heartfelt keynote address from The Right Rev. Sally French, Bishop of the Diocese of New Jersey, who introduced this year’s distinguished honorees: Canon Clara Gregory, Catherine Ambos, and St. George’s-by-the-River Episcopal Church and presented each of them with the Gospel Justice award. They were recognized for their outstanding dedication to service, compassion, and leadership in their communities and we are delighted to have honored them on that evening. 

Guests were also treated to a special video message from The Most Rev. Sean W. Rowe, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, who offered warm words of encouragement and gratitude to the honorees and all the guests that attended the event.

The evening concluded with a moving paddle raise, during which attendees generously contributed to support of programs and initiatives, including the Sacred Space Safe Access Grant, which helps congregations create welcoming, accessible spaces for all.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees, sponsors, and supporters, the event raised nearly $82,000 to sustain and expand ECS-NJ’s vital work throughout the state.

Above: Fr. Paul Chalakani, Emcee for the evening

We are delighted to announce the appointment of the Rev. Dr. Carolyn Bradley, Dcn as Co-Chair of the ECS-NJ Advisory Council. Rev. Bradley brings a deep passion for service and a steadfast commitment to our mission of transforming lives through compassion and justice. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Rev. Dave Snyder for his dedicated leadership and guidance during his time as Co-Chair. While Fr. Dave transitions from this role, we are pleased that he will continue to serve with ECS-NJ through various committees, sharing his insight and experience as we continue our important work together.

We are proud to support ministries such as All Saints Episcopal Church in Lakewood, whose Sanctuary Ministry embodies faith in action. Through ECS-NJ grant funding, All Saints continues to provide safety, compassion, and hope to immigrant families facing uncertainty and hardship. Their powerful witness reminds us that the Church’s call to love our neighbors extends beyond the walls of the sanctuary—into the very heart of community and justice.

At a time when fear and uncertainty weigh heavily on immigrant communities, All Saints Episcopal Church has remained steadfast in its commitment to justice, compassion, and spiritual care, especially for undocumented Latino families. The Church is living out the Gospel call to love our neighbors, not just in word but in courageous action. As a sanctuary church, it has developed meaningful programs and partnerships that create tangible safety and spiritual refuge for those often forced to live in the shadows.

Creating Sanctuary in Spirit and Practice
Recognizing that sanctuary is more than just a place, it's a commitment, All Saints has taken practical and pastoral steps to accompany undocumented members through legal uncertainty and emotional hardship. This includes providing “Know Your Rights” education, access to legal counsel, emergency planning resources, and secure transportation to and from services. These efforts ensure that families can worship, gather, and grow in faith without fear.

Join us for a virtual Get to Know Us Information Session:  ECS-NJ – We’re More Than Just Grants

Wednesday, November 5, 2025

7 p.m.

SAVE THE DATE: Climate

Wednesday, December 4, 2025

hosted by GreenFaith

More to come!

Ready to make a difference? Episcopal Community Services of the Diocese of New Jersey is launching a new volunteer network and we’d love for you to be part of it! Whether you’re passionate about serving your neighbors, supporting local ministries, or lending your time and talents where they’re most needed, this is your chance to get involved in meaningful, hands-on work that changes lives. Sign up using our volunteer form, and we’ll keep you in the loop as exciting opportunities arise to serve, connect, and grow in faith together!

Thank you for reading.

Together, let us continue to uplift our neighbors and create lasting change. Thank you for being part of this mission.

Help us spread the word. We invite you to share our e-newsletter and social media with your networks.

The Episcopal Community Services of the Diocese of New Jersey (ECS-NJ) is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing community-identified human needs while working relentlessly against injustice. ECS-NJ is a public charity recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS under Section 501(c)(3). EIN:85-0539298.

Our focus on Gospel Justice is centered around our five core components: Advocacy, Education, Grantmaking, Fundraising and Prayer.

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