BEDMINSTER, N.J. — October, 2026 — Episcopal Community Services of the Diocese of New Jersey (ECS-NJ) raised more than $75,000 at its Second Annual ECS-NJ Gala on October 8, 2026 at Pines Manor in Edison, New Jersey. Guided by the theme, “I Was Hungry and You Gave Me Something to Eat,” inspired by Matthew 25:35, the evening celebrated congregations and leaders whose ministries provide food and compassionate support to individuals and families in need.

More than 170 were in attendance to acknowledge the evening’s five Gospel Justice Award honorees for their commitment to serving their communities and helping ensure that neighbors facing food insecurity receive care, nourishment and support. Honorees included in the image above (L to R): the Rev. Marvin Lindsay of First Presbyterian Church, Haddonfield; Norman Valentine of St. Wilfrid’s Church, Camden; the Rev. Mantelle Bradley of St. Peter’s Church, Clarksboro; the Rev Lisa Hoffman of Christ Church, Toms River; and the Rev. Neil Raman of Grace Church, Haddonfield.

The Right. Rev. Sally French, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey and honorary chairperson of the gala, presented the Gospel Justice Awards. Through her welcoming, heartfelt remarks, Bishop French celebrated the honorees’ faithful service and reminded attendees of the importance of putting the Gospel into action through tangible expressions of love, compassion and justice.

The evening’s keynote speaker, Kim Guadagno, former Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey, brought warmth, humor and an engaging presence to the program. Her remarks connected with attendees and complemented the evening’s focus on service, community and the shared responsibility to care for neighbors in need.

A special video message from the Most Rev. Sean W. Rowe, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, offered congratulations to the honorees and extended his warm wishes to everyone gathered in support of ECS-NJ’s mission.

One of the evening’s most moving moments was a video montage showcasing food ministries throughout the Diocese of New Jersey. Introduced by the Rev. Tammy Young, ECS-NJ Administrator Director, the presentation illustrated the meaningful work congregations are doing to feed their neighbors and respond to community-identified needs. Rev. Young’s remarks underscored the lasting impact that collective generosity can make and issued a compelling call to action, encouraging attendees to continue supporting these vital ministries beyond the gala.

The program was led by emcee the Rev. Paul Chalakani, whose lively and entertaining style brought energy to the evening. Guests also enjoyed a commemorative gala journal celebrating the event and its supporters. During the cocktail hour, the Kilkenny Cats serenaded attendees with a distinctive blend of traditional Celtic music, classic favorites and ragtime.

The evening concluded with a spirited paddle raise led by Rev. Chalakani, generating nearly $19,000 in additional support that night and the benediction by ECS-NJ Advisory Council President, Rev. Carolyn Bradley, Dcn.  Combined with the generosity of sponsors, donors and attendees, the gala raised more than $75,000 to advance ECS-NJ’s work throughout the Diocese.

ECS-NJ extends its sincere gratitude to the evening’s sponsors: Dr. Rosina Dixon, Deacon Tom Bartlett, Christ Church, Toms River, Glenmede Wealth Management and UBS Financial Group. Their generosity, together with the contributions of gala attendees and supporters, helped make the evening a meaningful success.

Proceeds from the gala will support ECS-NJ’s vital ministries throughout the Diocese of New Jersey and its work with community partners addressing food insecurity, housing needs, racial justice, outreach ministries and other critical needs throughout the Diocese of New Jersey.

To view highlights from the evening, including the Presiding Bishop’s video message and the food ministry montage, visit: https://ecs-nj.org/donate/2026-ecs-nj-gala/

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

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. Through its commitment to Gospel Justice, ECS-NJ supports initiatives that strengthen communities, advance equity and respond to critical needs across the Diocese of New Jersey.  For more information, visit https://ecs-nj.org