_To learn more about Christmas services at Hoboken Grace, [click here](https://hobokengrace.com/capturing-christmas/)._

The 7th annual Hoboken Grace Christmas Exchange took place this past Saturday, and what an incredible day it was! Let’s take a look at the impact. More than 350+ volunteers and 570+ gift donors came together to love and serve their city by providing Christmas gifts to…**drum roll**…1,400 children in the Hoboken and Hudson County area! It’s amazing to think about the amount of joy there will be on Christmas mornings!

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51739784887_5d0358b0a2_6k.jpg)

Seeing all of the smiles and laughter really highlights just how important this event is for our friends and neighbors in this city. As Pastor Chris mentioned on Sunday, when we come together as a church to give and support one another…the recognition goes to Him. The role of the church becomes clear to others in our city allowing Him to reach them.

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51740161461_9e9acccf61_6k.jpg)

Everybody from greeters to gift checkers to our lively elves gave it their all to make it a Christmas to remember. Not only for gift donors, but for the children and families who received gifts as well. What better way to show the love of Jesus at Christmas?

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51740166366_db9ba3d8c2_6k.jpg)

Every December, the Hoboken Christmas Exchange is an opportunity to celebrate Christmas as a community and a way to show love beyond Sunday. We can’t wait to see how God uses this past Saturday to reach others and we can’t wait to see what next year’s event will bring. We don’t just live here, we love here!

_To learn more about Christmas services at Hoboken Grace, [click here](https://hobokengrace.com/capturing-christmas/)._


Christmas Exchange Recap

_To learn more about Grace Kids, click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/kids/)._ 

When thinking of the Christmas season, a lot of different things come to mind. The presents, the lights, the food, the family gatherings. All wonderful and all worth celebrating!

At Hoboken Grace, there’s one special tradition that really makes it feel like the holiday is here, the Grace Kids Christmas Concert. It’s a special Sunday where all the different ages of the Grace Kids program come together to sing classic Christmas songs we all know and love.

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51729616465_96d71c1766_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51729616465%5F96d71c1766%5Fk.jpg)

This year, that song list included Away in a Manger, Do You Hear What I Hear, Silent Night, Oh Holy Night, The First Noel, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and The Little Drummer Boy. The last one in particular had an extra layer of fun to it because the smaller children were playing little drums during the song.

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51729382014_06e7779f04_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51729382014%5F06e7779f04%5Fk.jpg)

To those who didn’t have children of their own up on stage, it might sound like an event that’s geared towards families. But there’s a reason our church loves this event so much. Because of the love of Christmas. What better way to celebrate that love than receiving this gift from our youngest members?

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51728732966_d14020a78c_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/12/51728732966%5Fd14020a78c%5Fk.jpg)

Last year’s concert was a recording and that was really great, but there’s just something special about experiencing an event like this in person that just isn’t the same on a video. We hope the concert rang in the Christmas season for many people on Sunday morning, and what a kick off it was!

_To learn more about Grace Kids, click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/kids/)._


The 2021 Grace Kids Christmas Concert!

_To learn more and to register for Amplify 2021 click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/amplify/)!_ 

The Story Team recently sat down with Jian-Ning to learn more about what its like to attend Amplify and how the experience has impacted him and his faith. Read below to hear just what he has to say about that special day and to see some pictures from the last event!

**Why was Amplify important to attend?**

It was a day that I could set aside to focus on learning on a deeper level on topics that I knew were important to my personal growth and faith journey.

**Was an area of your faith strengthened by the experience? What differences did you notice?**

I attended the Storytelling breakout track which was all about sharing the story of your faith. I think it was a great reminder that my story is worth telling and that it’s more than just the relatively short period of time when I first decided to become a Christian. It helped me to realize that God has been working consistently throughout my life and there are so many examples to share and opportunities to pour into others through storytelling.

**Did you learn anything unexpected?**

While I was expecting to learn the practical ways to talk to others about God, one of the best parts was actually the way the Story track made me look back across the different stages of my life because it reminded me of all the ways that God has been pursuing me and working in my life.

This was a pivotal moment, because while I was expecting to come out with more knowledge about how to reach more people, I actually left with an even deeper appreciation of my own faith journey. I was able to tell my story more effectively, and now I saw God’s impact in so many more ways too!

**How has your life been impacted since that time?**

I think Amplify has been part of my growth to be more open about my faith with my non-Christian friends. I think this is a difficult thing for many of us to do, but Amplify walked through how to do it naturally in the right moments.

**What would you say to someone who is hesitant about attending Amplify?**

In addition to all the good things I already mentioned I would say that it’s not just listening to a lecture. The lesson was interactive and engaging, and I got to meet and talk to people who I hadn’t met before. Last but not least the band was great as always!

Amplify is coming up on Saturday, October 30! This one day event is a personalized experience that will encourage, challenge, and equip you in area of life that is most relevant to you! There are eight exciting growth tracks based on the area you want to amplify, including: Foundations, Storytelling, Empowerment, Psalms, Parenting, Money Talk, and Wisdom Literature.

_To learn more and to register for Amplify 2021 click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/amplify/)!_ 

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027807527_b9e0c9d2d9_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027807527%5Fb9e0c9d2d9%5Fk.jpg)

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49003915291_2fcd022fe7_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49003915291%5F2fcd022fe7%5Fk.jpg)

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027083823_afd822c364_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027083823%5Fafd822c364%5Fk.jpg)

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027083383_9e1b496328_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027083383%5F9e1b496328%5Fk.jpg)

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/48910168561_152c88c332_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/48910168561%5F152c88c332%5Fk.jpg)

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027806997_576948525c_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/49027806997%5F576948525c%5Fk.jpg)


Get Ready for Amplify!

When Pastor Chris says “we don’t just live here, we love here,” 1Day Hoboken is one of those special events that comes to mind first. What is 1Day you might ask? It’s a day of service and impact where we take a Saturday to tackle dozens of community service projects for our great city.

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51544211288_8287ef910c_o.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51544211288%5F8287ef910c%5Fo.jpg)

Projects included picking up litter along the Hudson River, painting rails at different parks areas, planting along garden and walkway areas, and even partnering with more than a dozen local nonprofits and civic organizations to help them with their own projects so that they can better serve the community as well. One group of us went over to In Jesus Name Charities where we sorted and organized donated children’s clothes so that they will be easier to access and inventory when families in need request them.

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51544693744_e70538540d_o.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51544693744%5Fe70538540d%5Fo.jpg)

Service projects for the community have always been something that Hoboken Grace loves to be a part of, but it has taken on a whole new meaning since the launch the Home Initiative. As we put down roots here in Hoboken, we want to show this city just how much we love this great home of ours. In your home, we’re sure you like things kept nice and clean. Well, that’s exactly what Saturday was all about! Keeping this city clean and helping our nonprofit and civic partner who support underserved communities. It was just a special time to show people how much we truly care about them, and more importantly, how much God loves them too.

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51542474766_d16681f59e_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51542474766%5Fd16681f59e%5Fk.jpg)

As group members and leaders wrapped up their many projects throughout the city, everyone came back to 301 Garden for an epic rooftop afterparty. It was a beautiful afternoon to be up there, and seeing the community come together to celebrate their achievements was amazing. New friends and connections were being made, and we can confidently say our city is stronger in many ways after this Saturday! Overall, just standing back and seeing how many people decided to serve Hoboken on their Saturday was so rewarding, and we sure those who participated felt the same way too! 551 people to be exact!

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51541685367_b182cb3dd9_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51541685367%5Fb182cb3dd9%5Fk.jpg)

While 1Day is only one day out of the year, our hope is that the work we do here inspires the city and those who witnessed it to carry that work out throughout the year. 1Day Hoboken may be over for this year (looking at 2022 now!), but there is always work to be done in our community and there is never a bad time to get started in your own way!

[![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51544385898_6b6a21d33f_k.jpg)](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/10/51544385898%5F6b6a21d33f%5Fk.jpg)


1Day Hoboken 2021 Recap!

_To learn more about NEXT, click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/next/)!_

NEXT is a 10-minute introduction to Hoboken Grace where you can explore who we are and find out what your next step should be. It takes place after every in-person and online service on Sundays.

To learn more about what NEXT can accomplish, we sat down with Rebecca to hear how it impacted her life and led to some amazing steps!

**What led you to find the NEXT booth after service one day?** 

It’s funny, because months previous to attending the service and stopping by the NEXT booth, I had emailed Hoboken Grace a pretty lengthy message with a series of questions about the church, it’s theology, etc etc. At the time, I was “church shopping” as my then boyfriend (now husband) and I felt it was time to make our way back to our faith. I had fired off similar emails to a few different congregations in the area. What really struck me was Anthony’s comically short response to my drawn out email. Ha! He explained how he thought that God was giving me “little nudges”, and that I should simply pop by on Sunday and see what they were all about.

**What was your experience at NEXT like?** 

At the time, I considered talking to “church people” an intimidating experience, so I was bracing myself for an awkward conversation when I walked in and saw Pastor Anthony sitting there. It was nothing of the sort. It was a quick, disarming conversation, and I left feeling validated. Anthony gave me a really awesome book to take home, and encouraged me to keep coming on Sundays. My husband and I poured over the book together over the next few weeks, and it was an amazing turning point for us.

**Were your questions and concerns answered?** 

Yes! NEXT put me at ease, and it was one tiny step out of my comfort zone. Leaving NEXT, I had a moment of clarity. I realized only God had the answers I was looking for, not people, and so I felt motivated to dive deeper.

**How have you found community or become more connected after NEXT?** 

NEXT was really the jump off for me feeling safe and ready to become more involved with Hoboken Grace. Shortly after that, we started attending Sundays regularly. From there, I felt an itch to serve. I applied to become a teacher at the After School program. Then, I met a friend who invited me to be in their dinner group. Finally, the opportunity to serve on Sundays fell into my lap. Now, I’m the Family Support Leader for the Grace Kids program and it’s been a wonderfully fulfilling adventure.

**What would you say to someone who is considering NEXT?**

Just go. No one bites, and we literally pray for you and this moment to happen! I think everyone at Hoboken Grace is genuinely eager and ready to meet you where you’re at. Just be yourself, and give yourself the chance you deserve to deepen (or start) a relationship with Jesus.

_To learn more about NEXT, click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/next/)!_


So, what is NEXT?

_Click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/fpu/) to learn more about Financial Peace University!_

New Financial Peace University (FPU) classes launch this week! Every course is designed to provide support no matter what your current income or financial health is. FPU will empower you to take control of an area of life that has a big impact on your day-to-day and long-term goals.

So, register today and let’s engage money from a new perspective to find financial freedom. Classes are offered in-person and online with different time options to fit your schedule.

We sat down with Vinny Hu, Director of Financial Health & Stewardship, to learn more about what to expect from the fall 2021 classes.

**What is FPU and what makes it different from other finance classes?**

Financial Peace University is a 9-week class that goes through finances from a very practical and Biblical perspective. The class is unique in that it has up-to-date financial information but really focuses on the habits, behaviors and relationships that are often missing from other classes.

For example, we go through budgeting and introduce accountability as a single person, as well as how to discuss money without having a fight with your spouse! We also cover other essential topics such as debt management, insurance (what to buy and what not to), investments and estate planning.

**Who should take it?**

We have found the class to be useful for everybody – from those that are struggling as well as millionaires! It is not uncommon for us to see many households have a “turnaround” (debt payment and savings) of thousands of dollars just within the 9 weeks of the class!

**How much does it cost?**

There is a $60 cost to the class that goes directly to the company that creates and maintains all of the materials. That said, we don’t want finances to prevent people from taking it, and so if cost is a barrier please do reach out to vinny@hobokengrace.com to discuss how we can help.

**When does it start and how do I sign up?**

We have 5 offerings this Fall at different times of the week with both online as well as in-person options available. The first class starts on Thursday 9/16 so sign up soon!

You can find more information and sign up at <https://hobokengrace.com/fpu> – check out some of the incredible stories of people who have experienced the power of being intentional with money!

_Click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/fpu/) to learn more about Financial Peace University!_


Taking The Stress Out Of Money

_Click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/kids/) to learn more about Grace Kids!_

With Grace Kids moving to the fourth floor at 301 Garden last week, it’s an exciting time for the program! The additional space means there will be way better activities and creative opportunities to support our children’s faith and learning. At Grace Kids, we’re not the type of Sunday School you might remember yourself from childhood! It’s an engaging and developmentally appropriate environment that will have your kids excited to share everything they learned when they get home.

The story team recently sat down with Jessica and Adam who have had their children in Grace Kids for seven years!

**What does Grace Kids mean to you and your family?**

Grace Kids has been one of the greatest blessings in our lives. Our children have attended for over 7 years and it has played a huge part in the foundation of their faith.

**What do you think of the Grace Kids teachers and staff?**

The people who serve week after week, month after month and year after year have truly given their time and talents for our kids. Because of them, our kids have a consistent, safe, and spiritually engaging place to be every week.

**How has this impacted your children and their faith?**

Over the years they have developed personal relationships so that these teachers can really serve as a trusted 3rd voice in their lives. This has given them confidence in their faith which allows them to be a light to their friends at school, at sports, and to their family.

**What is a cool Grace Kids story you’d like to share?**

Our son came home from church one day and told us how he and his teacher prayed together because they both had grandmas who were sick at the time. This meant so much to him and later that night at dinner he prayed for his teacher’s grandmother. What a blessing to witness him connecting with his teacher and learning how to be a prayer warrior!

**What excites you about Grace Kids moving forward?**

We are so excited for Grace Kids to move back to the 4th floor at 301 Garden. We know that extra space and dedicated rooms for the different age groups will allow for more intentional interaction. That means so much to developing and deepening the relationships and faith they have.

_Click [here](https://hobokengrace.com/kids/) to learn more about Grace Kids!_


What Did You Learn At Grace Kids Today?

_Click [here](http://hobokengrace.com/dinnergroups/#join) to join a men’s, women’s or married couples group!_

Dinner groups make it easy to meet new friends, build community, and grow your faith. Whether you are new to Hoboken or have lived here for many years, groups provide real and lasting connection with others in your community.

We recently sat down with Colin to help answer some questions about what it’s like to be in a dinner group, including the hesitations that many of us deal with when considering a step like this.

**Why did you make the decision to join a dinner group?**

I was looking to start my own interfaith spirituality group, and my wife (girlfriend at the time) suggested I check out a dinner group first. I was traveling for work, and it just so happened to be when the first online men’s group launched.

**Did you have any hesitations?**

I wanted to inspire other people about God and learn more about Him from people of different backgrounds, and I thought I had to do that outside of the Church.

**What have you gained or learned from joining?**

Dinner group helped me build an entirely new perspective on my Christian faith, and, ultimately, solidify it to the point I was ready to be baptized. I didn’t realize how deep God’s love is in Jesus, and what it really meant to be forgiven in His name. My personal relationship with God has transformed, and the support of my group taught me so much about the benefits and joys of this type of connection.

**What have you learned about yourself?**

I learned that God wants me to follow Jesus, and that Jesus and His community are enough!

**What was life like before dinner group?**

Before Dinner Group, life was less grounded. I was full of confusion, though ever-hopeful that God was alive. Life is still difficult, but I know I have God and my dinner group brothers on my side!

**What would you say to someone who may be hesitant or skeptical?**

I would advise anyone to join. The more skeptical, the better. It makes the conversations WAY more interesting! I believe there is so much of the love of God for us to experience in community, ESPECIALLY when we bring our doubts and fears along with us. Chances are, you’ll find an extremely loving, fun, and supportive group.

**What do you look forward to moving forward?**

I’m looking forward to continuing my walk with the men in my group. They’re amazing. Everyone who has joined has been a blessing in my life. I know God will continue to challenge, comfort, and strengthen me through my Dinner Group brothers.

_Click [here](http://hobokengrace.com/dinnergroups/#join) to join a men’s, women’s or married couples group!_


The Core of What We Do!

Dinner groups have always been at the core of Hoboken Grace. Every dinner group is made up of common people from diverse backgrounds, gathered at a common table, pursuing a common goal. It is a practical and hopeful pathway for everyone seeking a closer relationship with God. Whether you are taking your first steps toward God or are a longtime follower of Jesus, dinner group will meet you right where you are.

When you join a dinner group, there is no long-term commitment. However, we do encourage you to attend the same group for six weeks. This is because dinner group is different every week. During those six group meetings, you will get a more complete picture of dinner group. Here are a few things you can expect:

**COMMON PEOPLE**

Joining a dinner group takes a step of faith (see [5 Reasons to Sign Up for a Dinner Group](http://hobokengrace.com/blog/5-reasons-join-dinner-group/)), but it is a step you will always be glad you took. When you first attend, you will notice the diverse backgrounds of the group members. Dinner groups are for [anyone and everyone](http://hobokengrace.com/blog/anyone-and-everyone/). Over time, members find that the things they thought defined them (careers, race, place of origin) pale in comparison to their commonalities as people finding their way back to God.

As you attend a dinner group it begins to normalize your life. You discover that everyone encounters storms and that we are all in need of a savior. It is out of these realizations that your dinner group is able to cultivate meaningful conversations that lead to growth.

We are all responsible for our own spiritual growth, but we do not have to grow alone. Dinner group members encourage each other to take action in their faith, in order to grow closer to God.

**COMMON TABLE**

When we gather together at the table as a family, we share both the celebrations and struggles in our lives. Dinner group becomes the place where you can be who you are, whether you share a meal over a physical table, living room couches, park benches or bar stools.

We do a lot of sharing in group: food, life and growth. Some weeks, a dinner group will worship together or share their stories. Other nights the group will pray for each other, our church and our community.

Often it can be a challenge for us to recognize what our gifts are or how we have grown over the duration of the group. Dinner groups take specific nights out of the year to stop and acknowledge that growth. No matter where you meet, this gathering is where we are able to care for one another and where families are formed.

**COMMON GOAL**

Our goal is to further each other’s growth and include as many people as we can on this journey. 

At Hoboken Grace, every Sunday morning conversation is part of a series focused on a particular theme. Each week in dinner group we talk through discussion questions stemming from Sunday and work together to make the choices and commitments necessary to apply the message to our lives. 

In James 1:22 it says, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.” It is not enough for us to simply talk about God’s word, we must put it into action. These weekly conversations allow the group to put into practice what they have been learning. Dinner group members might not be all at the same point spiritually, but we all have room to grow, and we can encourage each other by taking steps together in the same direction.

At Hoboken Grace, we exist to help people find their way back to God. In groups, we work to accurately and passionately reflect Jesus Christ to our friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. Dinner groups are not an elite club only a few can join. We encourage group members to invite and include others. They are open to all who are interested in discovering more about what it means to know and follow God, no matter who you are, where you have been or what you have done.

Don’t miss out. We saved you a seat. Will you join us? 

_To find a Dinner Group that is right for you,[ visit here.](http://hobokengrace.com/dinnergroups/#join)_


Common People. Common Table. Common Goal.


I recently got an email from someone who was hesitant about committing to a dinner group. They were having trouble making it work with the demanding hours of a new job. We’ve all been there, whether it’s a hectic job or another commitment weighing down our schedule.

That’s why I was so glad they had the courage to ask the question. What do you do when you don’t have time for dinner group?

The answer, quite simply, is to try. Give it just six weeks. I think you’ll find it will be some of the best 90 minutes to two hours of your week. At the end of the day, it requires a step of faith.

When I first started attending Hoboken Grace, I was in a similar situation. I moved to Hoboken in 2008 to work for JPMorgan. Being that I worked at an investment bank at an entry level, I was working 60 to 70 hours a week, busting my butt trying to prove myself and find my value. By the time I got home I was wiped and exhausted. That got old real quick. It had only been nine months, and the lifestyle of work hard play hard was starting to get to me.

Then one Sunday a man named Steve invited me to join his dinner group. I hesitated to say yes because I wasn’t getting home ’til 8 or 9, and by that point, I just wanted to go home, kick my shoes off and relax. I didn’t feel like I had the capacity for one more thing.

Finally, I went and it was nothing like I’ve ever experienced. I was surround by a group of guys who were in their late 20s who were either married or in a serious relationship. The odd thing to me was how much they loved their wives and others. It was so counter-cultural to what I was experiencing in life. It wasn’t that I wanted to be married like them, but that I wanted to be as loving as they were. I came to find out much later it’s because of the relationship they had with God that allowed them to love in such sacrificial ways.

I knew I’d need to make time for dinner group if I wanted to be like them. The week I decided that was the week before the financial industry was collapsing in September 2008, and I had a front-row seat for it. My hours increased all the more, but I knew it was more important for me to be in that group. It meant I had to ask my manager if I could leave _early_ at 7:30 p.m. on a Monday to make group. Thankfully, that conversation was a heck of a lot less scary than it was in my head. I’m not sure where the courage came from to ask, but I’m glad I did. Joining a dinner group helped save my life because when life came my way I was glad I had a community of believers around me continuing to point me toward God and the right path. I’m not sure what my life would look like without my group.

Sundays are great — we get to worship together and hear a relevant message. But in a group, you’ll find growth, accountability and acceptance, something that’s really a challenge in the rows we sit in on Sunday. Groups help us to activate our faith and give us the encouragement to do so.

Is there a night of the week that you could carve out two hours for the next six weeks? I really think you’d enjoy the community that comes from being a part of a dinner group. [Find your group here.](http://hobokengrace.com/dinnergroups/)


When There’s No Time for Dinner Group

_If you’re interested in becoming a dinner group leader, you can find more information_ _[here](https://hobokengrace.com/leadadinnergroup/)_ _._

When CJ was originally asked about leading a Monday night group had had some hesitations. “I thought, ‘How am I going to lead a group of guys with some who are older and smarter than me? What if I don’t have enough biblical knowledge to answer all of their questions? What if it becomes too much for my schedule?’ And, to be honest, these are all insecurities that I still wrestle with, even ten years later.

“What keeps me inspired to come back and lead each week are the people,” he continued. “If we’re passionate about loving people and helping them find their way back to God, there’s perhaps no better place to see that more effectively played out than inside of dinner groups. To be able to experience this has been incredibly humbling.”

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/08/Image-from-iOS.jpg)

Dinner group is where real community is formed, and you simply need to be yourself. “You don’t have to be perfect to be a dinner group leader,” Emma said. “All you need is to want to encourage people to grow closer to each other and to God. Dinner group doesn’t have to be a big production either. All you need is a place to meet and some food, the rest you leave to God!”

What these stories from people who saw themselves as unlikely leaders have in common are feelings of inadequacy, insecurity and fear. But sometimes when we feel unready, and like we don’t have what it takes, we’re actually in the perfect place to really lean on God and take a leap of faith.“God doesn’t ask about capability, but availability,” said Nick, the director of dinner groups. “Because when we love and depend on God, he will increase our capability.”

God will provide, we just need to show up. What do you believe God is calling you to do?

_If you’re interested in becoming a dinner group leader, you can find more information_ _[here](https://hobokengrace.com/leadadinnergroup/)_ _._


Taking the Lead

_If you want to learn more about how to support or be involved in the Home Initiative, click_ [_here_](http://www.hobokengrace.com/home)_._

**The Home Initiative** 

After fourteen years, it was this Sunday that we were finally able to announce we had found a permanent space for our church. A space from which we could love and serve Hoboken better than we ever had before. In that moment, the Home Initiative transformed from an idea that we prayed about to a real space with real plans.

“We are so excited to establish this space for our community. We have never wavered from continually growing how we love Hoboken and this building will allow us to create an incredibly flexible space that can be enjoyed by those who live and work here. It’s going to be an active and dynamic venue that will host nonprofit and other community partner events throughout the week.” – Chris High, Lead Pastor

This historic moment came after a lot of prayer and trust in God’s plan. A journey with ups and downs, but one that was ultimately better than anything we could have ever expected.

To begin with, launching the Home Initiative without a confirmed space was a huge step of faith. In fact, the sheer scale of our hopes was at odds with the very city we were looking to find it in. The square footage and multi-functionality we need amounted to a real estate unicorn in a place with such limited space and so little undeveloped land. 

We weren’t sure how or where, but we knew that God would provide. We knew He had a plan. Faithfully, we went ahead launching the Home Initiative in March of 2020\. Little did we know that just a few weeks later, the whole world would be turned upside down. Suddenly, the timing saw us asking people to invest in a dream when they were in the middle of one of the most uncertain seasons of their lives! 

As we look back over the past year and a half, we are in awe of what He has done through it all. God has provided something bigger than we ever thought possible and has provided just the type of space we needed. 

**The Building**

We are now under contract to purchase the building that hosted Bow Tie Cinema in north Hoboken! We were sad to see the theater leave the city, but once we understood that they would not be returning, we saw an opportunity to save the space and ensure that it would continue to be a community space that served the city. 

The building provides over 25,000 square feet of usable space and the facilities needed to accommodate daily use with multiple configurations. It allows for classrooms, offices, meeting rooms, a sanctuary, a large multipurpose youth group room, and more. We are completely blown away and are so excited to see how our nonprofit and other community partners will benefit from this amazing space. 

**Community Partners**

The only people more excited about this space than us are our community partners!

“Hoboken Grace is an active partner in the growth of our nonprofit that serves underprivileged youth. Without Hoboken Grace, we would not be where we are today. We fully support their plans to develop a community center and look to continue working with them in the future.” – CEO, Community Lifestyle 

“Hoboken Grace Church has made and continues to make a tremendous positive impact in Hoboken. Having a permanent location would be an asset for the community. \[They are\] a force for good and presence for the whole community.” – Director, In Jesus Name Charities

“Hoboken Grace is a vital partner of New ity Kids in our mission to support the under-resourced kids of Hudson county to become agents of change in their communities, and also in their quest for college. We have found \[them\] to be a great neighbor and force for good, especially for our most disadvantaged citizens. We hope that the Hoboken City Council will approve their request to redevelop 4019 14th Street into a vibrant community center.” – Community Engagement Coordinator, New City Kids 

“Hoboken Grace has helped us further our mission of supporting and advocating for people who have Down syndrome (DS) since our inception in 2005\. We fully support Hoboken Grace’s plans to develop a community center and look forward to our continued partnership with their organization.” – Vice President, Rock the 21

“We provide our students with ESL courses, GED/TASC preparation and computer literacy. We also provide our students with regular conversation practice and additional support, including health webinars, legal counsel workshops, and emotional counsel referrals. The Open Door is forever thankful for the impact of Hoboken Grace on the Hudson County community! We are so hopeful they will get the additional space they need to have an even greater impact in the future.” – Cofounder & Executive Director, The Open Door 

“I am writing to express my vehement support for Hoboken Grace’s Church’s application to procure a community building. Not only do I entrust that they will continue to act as a hub for community partnerships, but I can say that without a doubt, TRUE Mentors, Inc. would not exist without the initial efforts and ongoing support from Hoboken Grace Church in particular.” – Executive Director, TRUE Mentors

“Having somewhere like the newly anticipated Hoboken Grace building could be life-changing. That may sound drastic, but feel free to attend one of our future meetings and you can see the impact these meetings can have on our young girls. It is life-changing.” – Girl Scout Leader of Troop 11175

**Prayer & Next Steps**

As the purchase process proceeds and discussions continue on zoning, permits, and approvals, we are facing the most important part of the battle. We ask everyone to pray for the process, the church leadership and our city leaders as we work through logistical and other considerations that we are sure to face. Plans to move into the space are in development, but we know that it will likely not take place until at least mid-2022 at the earliest. 

If you have been waiting to commit to the Home Initiative, now is the time. We are going to change what it’s like to live in Hoboken, and so don’t just watch what happens…be a part of it! _Click_ [_here_](http://www.hobokengrace.com/home) _to_ _learn more about how to support or be involved in the Home Initiative._ 


Our New Home

Refreshed. Renewed. Rested. Just a few words that sum up the Axiom Homecoming Retreat from this past weekend. Twenty-three of us headed out to Schooleys Mountain, NJ for a weekend focused on experiencing time with God in a new way.

Through movies, literature, art and solitude we practiced pausing the insignificant and temporary to be more aware of His dreams and purposes for our lives.

Coming out of the weekend each person went home with new ideas, next steps and rhythms to incorporate what they learned and discovered into the day-to-day. It is not about arriving, but becoming. Becoming more aware of God in us, around us and how he uses us to love the world.

To learn more about Axiom and how to sign up for the next retreat contact the Next Steps Team at equip@hobokengrace.com!


Axiom Homecoming 2021

July 4th fell on a Sunday this year, so we hosted a fun BBQ at the Lawn! There were hot dogs, hamburgers, cornhole, exploding watermelons and much more! The Lawn space is one that we’ve grown to love over the past year and once again it was the perfect venue to bring the community together.

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/07/IMG_2162.jpg)

Roman and James worked hard all morning and afternoon providing their grilling services, while Pastor Chris showed off his precision skills in the cornhole tournament. Of course it wouldn’t be a Hoboken Grace celebration without a photobooth area for all the pictures to be taken (because if there are no pictures, did it really happen?). The sun shining and rain holding off for the entire day was the extra cherry on top. 

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/07/IMG_2161.jpg)

On a typical Sundaywith three different services and Grace Kids going on at the same time, people are often spread out. But not on this day. We saw family and friends of all ages running around, catching up and playing games with one another. You could look out and see everyone celebrating the moment. This type of environment is what we hope to provide as much possible! Not only for the time we get to pause and reflect on the importance of this holiday to our country, but for the community and connection we get along with it.


Celebrating July 4th

Last Sunday, we as a church family had the honor of witnesses one of the most joyous occasion that we share as a body. The cute babies of Hoboken Grace got up on stage in front of everyone (with the help of their parents of course) to be dedicated to our church in a tradition known as a “Baby Dedication.” For those unfamiliar with the concept, a Baby Dedication is a church ceremony in which parents present their young children before the congregation and devote themselves to raise that child in a God loving home. 

Pastor Chris has often spoken about investing in the next generation of our community. This is a big reason for why the Home Initiative is so important. We want to not only love and serve those around us in the here and now, but look to the future at how we can best serve and love those who are just starting their faith journey and what that will look like many years from now. A Baby Dedication is a perfect example of a starting point in making that commitment to the future of what our church can become because of who will be here after us. 

As church members, we aren’t just bystanders to this act that the parents are presenting to us and God. We also have an important job in all of this. Which is to commit to lifting these babies up in the church environment whenever possible as they are growing up and navigating their own church journey even years from now. This is the very first step in faith journey of these young ones, and for the foreseeable future, they will be with us for the long haul. Whether it’s them taking their first steps, being a curious learner in Grace Kids, or serving on a team decades from now, the example we set for these babies will have ripple effects throughout their lives as they form their own bond with the Father who loves and created them. It is the parent’s job to raise their kids to the best of their abilities, but when it comes to faith, it can be a rocky, unpredictable road that will require all the help they can get from their church family. 

Baby Dedication Sunday is such a special day for everyone who attends. For the parents who are making the public commitment to raise their newborns in the church, to the church body who get to witness the birth of new members, and especially to God, for having his creations in the hands of family and friends who have made the commitment to love and nurture these lives on the path that best serves Him. 


Child Dedication

This past Baptism Sunday was held on Father’s Day and that made it even more special than usual. Each person who gets baptized has their own reasons for taking the step and with that comes an array of emotions that accompany the process. Sometimes the step can even be a gift for the friends and family who have been supporting and praying for us on the journey. That was the case this past Sunday, as a mother/daughter duo took the step together as a surprise Father’s Day gift for dad! 

We saw three people take the step of baptism on Sunday and we spoke to all three of them to hear about their story and what made them decide to get baptized. 

_**Susan- 9:30 Service Baptism**_

**Story Team: What was the feeling like after you were baptized?**

**Susan:** After my baptism I was so excited to begin my new journey in my faith. I was forming a closer relationship with Jesus. 

**Story Team:** **Who was up there with you?**

**Susan:** I was joined by my daughter Erin, her husband James, my grandchildren, and my dinner group

**Story Team: What made you take the step of baptism?**

**Susan:** Pastor Chris had talked about faith. He said something to the effect that no one is sure about their faith journey but by making the commitment first, it only helps your faith get stronger. 

**Story Team: For another Hoboken Grace community member who may be thinking about taking this step, what would you say to them?**

**Susan:** I would say “go for it”. If you believe in Jesus why not just take the step? You might have doubts but this helps remove those doubts and make you feel even closer to Him.

**Story Team: Anything else you’d like to share?** 

**Susan:** I feel that Hoboken Grace has truly been a gift from God for me. Since I joined, I realized how God and Jesus have been instrumental in my life all along. My eyes have been opened to the blessings I receive every day!

_**Margarita and Leah- Mother & Daughter 11:00 am Service Baptisms**_ 

**Story Team: What was the feeling like after you were baptized?** 

**Margarita:** I felt so much love and freedom! I was in a state of pure contentment and peace like nothing I can ever describe. When I came up from being under the water, everything was glowing and I felt God’s and Jesus’ presence in a very real way.

**Leah:** After I was baptized, I felt an ethereal feeling consume me, a feeling of security, happiness, and bliss as I knew that I was now fully devoted to the Lord. I felt secure in my faith and future. I know God has plans to prosper me and this was the first step in a journey full of thousands of steps to reach a plentiful and massive goal. 

**Story Team: Who was up there with you?** 

**Margarita:** My husband, daughter Leah, son, my mom and my mother-in-law. One of my dear friends Betsy, and my first couple’s dinner group members; Nancy, Kelvin, Fernanda and Justin, as well as my new dinner group members (women’s group) Eli and Bonita.

**Leah:** My mother Margarita, my father, my grandmothers, Diana, Elizabeth, Karen, and Cristina- my friends from the Mexico mission trip. 

**Story Team: How was it as mother/daughter being baptized together and how did you pull off the Father’s Day surprise?!**

**Margarita:** It was an added blessing, being baptized alongside my daughter. Once again God gave me a small glimpse of His glory and on Father’s Day! Once I shared the news of my baptism with Leah, she was eager and ready to take this journey, at that moment we decided how amazing it would be for Leah to surprise her father. We had to be a little tricky and plan around him, but it worked! Carmelo was so surprised and emotional; we were all emotional!

**Leah:** Being a mother/daughter baptism was amazing because I felt safe and solidarity taking this step with my mom as she influenced me to take this step to change for the better. In response to pulling this off, it was super difficult as I had to be surreptitious, secretive, and stealthy showing me that I’d make a pretty good actress or CIA agent!

**Story Team** **: What made you take the step of baptism?**

**Margarita:** I felt that Jesus wanted my obedience and I submitted to His will and got baptized. I was ready to make a public declaration of my faith. All the internal stuff has been in place for a long time, and in my heart, I knew it was time to take the next step. 

**Leah:** I took the step as a renewal and I wanted to establish a rapport with God and get out of my comfort zone in order to feel comfortable in getting to know Him better. 

**Story Team: For another Hoboken Grace community member who may be thinking about taking this step, what would you say to them?** 

**Margarita:** Everyone’s experience is different of course and it is not always the same for everyone but regardless, you won’t regret it! Taking the next step to me seals the commitment that you are ready to grow, learn, and love Jesus. For me, it will be one of the most memorable spiritual experiences ever.

**Leah:** I would say that this step, although it may feel like a leap, is a beautiful thing. It will make you feel secure and have reassurance by reminding you how great He is and what He is doing in your life. 

**Story Team: Anything else you’d like to share?** 

**Margarita:** I truly believe that God granted just a sliver of His glory that day. Of course, I missed Pastor High that day, but being there with Anthony was so special having him present next to me, meant so much. Hoboken Grace has helped me grow in this journey and the feeling of family warms my heart when I think about all that Hoboken Grace Church means to me. The consistent support is immeasurable.

**Leah:** I’d like to share that this was probably the best Father’s Day gift ever, so my apologies to my siblings for making this pretty hard to top haha!

Click [here](http://Hobokengrace.com/nextsteps) to learn more about how you can take the step of baptism!


The Feeling of Baptism


This Sunday we celebrated Father’s Day at Hoboken Grace. It was wonderful to honor our fathers, grandfathers, and the father-figures who have been instrumental in making us who we are today. As a gift to all fathers who attended, we had a special churro bar and we gave out Hoboken Grace aprons for dad to use when he’s being master of the grill!

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/06/51259827326_346530b1d3_w.jpg)

There were also 3 baptisms, 2 of them being a moving surprise Father’s Day present for one of the dads!

Father’s Day was also the first time Pastor Anthony gave the message since his surgery. It was a great conversation for the second week of the Learning to Love Roller Coasters series. Pastor Anthony knows better than most how life can be like a roller coaster, having had many ups and downs with his cancer battle these last few months.

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/06/51259098752_0b39a65f15_w.jpg)

He spoke about how he struggled to find God’s peace in the midst of the hard times but he worked on trusting Him and letting God control the ride and once he relinquished control, he felt peace again. It was a poignant and inspiring message and a great continuation of this relevant series. Pastor Anthony said that we can have confidence riding the roller coaster of life because of who we know, where we’ll go, and what He’ll show. When we know God, we know the creator of the ride and He knows where we’re going, and He will show us the way.

It was such an awesome day celebrating our earthly fathers and our Father in heaven who loves us as His own!

If you missed any of it, you can catch up [here](https://hobokengrace.com/podcast/) and be sure to join us next week as we continue the conversation!


Father’s Day at Hoboken Grace

In Grace Kids we seek to help people find their way back to God by creating environments where kids can experience, learn about, respond to, and grow in the truth and love of Jesus while their parents have the opportunity to experience God through the message downstairs.

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/06/51246283111_581442a038_o-1.jpg)

One of our favorite Sundays of the year in Grace Kids is Graduation Sunday! Graduation in Grace Kids is a special Sunday where we celebrate all that the kids have learned and accomplished throughout the last year! Our preschool kids make the move to Clubhouse and all of our Clubhouse kids move into their new classes based on the grade they’ll be in in the fall. This includes our 5th graders who are moving to our Middle School Groups! 

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/06/51246326814_fdb25b2ecf_o-1.jpg)

We participate in lots of fun activities, decorate graduation caps, have some yummy treats and take lots of pictures to commemorate the day!! I think the treats are probably a crowd favorite with the kids and the parents usually cherish the pictures the most.

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/06/51246622770_986f99dde9_o.jpg)

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dzs7qxusf/image/upload/v1/archive/2021/06/51246339374_723b0d6b36_o.jpg)

“My favorite thing about graduation is welcoming the rising kindergartners into Clubhouse and seeing their excitement joining in with the older kids in the new activities!” – Said Diane, the Clubhouse Leader. 

We are so thankful that we get to be a part of this incredibly special day each year!


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