I am advocating for Pastor Bailey James of the Vineyard Baptist Church of 220 Littleton Ave. in Newark, New Jersey. We both are members of the Baptist Ministers Conference of Newark and Vicinity, a small group of pastors serving people primarily in urban communities of Newark, Irvington, and the surrounding area. I am making an appeal for Pastor Bailey James to anyone who can help. We are coming together as a group of pastors, but the needs of his church are far greater than our financial capability.
First, Pastor Bailey James is in his late 70s, a survivor of prostate cancer, and getting ready to go in for a kidney operation. He has served his community for over 15 years, consistently providing an open food pantry, clothing for the poor and disadvantaged, and consistent shelter for many in the community who have fallen on hard times. He has taken from his own Social Security and Disability to buy toys for underprivileged children in the community each year. I have personally witnessed his volunteers who happily serve with him in a facility with a gaping hole in their church roof where you can see the sky while sitting in the service. In my discussions with him and personal observations of the damages, it is going to take over $100,000 alone to repair the roof alone.
Please help this wonderful man of God. I do not want any recognition. This appeal is for Pastor Bailey James of the Vineyard Baptist Church of Newark, NJ. We know that there are many church ministries, but there are some like Vineyard Baptist in Newark, NJ that are helping people with little to no funds. It is confirmed that Pastor Bailey James has not received any funds from his church. It is also confirmed that his church is a legitimate 501c3 and all donations are tax-deductible. He was, like all of us, affected by the COVID pandemic and did not close his doors to the community or leave. He is of senior age, dealing with serious medical conditions, not asking for himself but in desperate need of financial assistance to repair his facility. I watched him break down in tears, not for his own assistance but for the church and the relief it provides for the children, families, and community. It would be a travesty for his community to lose his support. They stream in and out of his church daily for assistance in food, clothing, counseling, and hope. I have personally watched this myself. I am asking anyone who can to help Pastor Bailey James of Vineyard Baptist Church, address 220 Littleton Ave., Newark, New Jersey, and please know that I will be supporting him as well with whatever I can give.
Thank you in advance,
Bishop & Most Reverend Lon Calvin Whitfield
Sr. Pastor/CEO
The Fellowship Ministry West Orange, New Jersey 07052
The Vineyard Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, is in urgent need of immediate roof repair to ensure the safety and functionality of its facilities. Over time, the roof has sustained significant wear, leading to leaks and structural vulnerabilities that threaten the sanctuary and adjoining spaces. Prompt action is critical to prevent further damage to the building’s interior, including the worship area, classrooms, and fellowship halls. Addressing the issue now will not only preserve the church's historical integrity but also ensure it remains a welcoming and safe place for worship, community gatherings, and outreach activities. The church seeks support from its congregation, local businesses, and the wider community to fund this essential repair, emphasizing the importance of protecting a vital cornerstone of faith and service in Newark.
The Vineyard Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, urgently needs $50,000 to $100,000 to repair its roof and address essential building maintenance. These funds will cover structural repairs, halt ongoing damage from leaks, and ensure the church remains a safe and welcoming space for worship, community programs, and outreach efforts. This investment is critical to preserving the church’s mission and legacy in serving the Newark community. Contributions from members, businesses, and supporters are crucial to meeting this goal and securing the church’s future as a beacon of faith and hope.
The Vineyard Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, is seeking ministry assistance during a period of recovery following an operation for one of its key leaders. This temporary support is vital to ensuring the continuation of worship services, pastoral care, and community outreach during this transitional time. Responsibilities may include delivering sermons, offering spiritual guidance, and helping to organize church activities to maintain the congregation’s spiritual growth and sense of community. Assistance from neighboring churches, ministry partners, and volunteers would greatly help sustain the church’s mission and provide a seamless experience for its members while the leader focuses on a full recovery.
The Vineyard Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, is seeking volunteers to assist with its vital community outreach programs, including counseling services, and food and clothing distribution. These efforts provide critical support to individuals and families in need, reflecting the church’s mission to serve with love and compassion. Volunteers will play a key role in organizing and distributing resources, offering encouragement, and making a tangible difference in the lives of those facing challenges. Your time and dedication can help extend the church’s impact and bring hope to the community. If you’re able to lend a hand, please reach out to the church office at 220 Littleton Ave., Newark, NJ 07103.
Donations to support the Vineyard Baptist Church can be made directly to the church at 220 Littleton Ave., Newark, NJ 07103. Contributions will help fund urgent roof repairs, building maintenance, and ministry support during this critical time. Every donation makes a meaningful impact, ensuring the church remains a safe and vibrant space for worship, fellowship, and community service. Your generosity is deeply appreciated and vital to sustaining the church’s mission and legacy in Newark.
Join our BMCNJ churches for the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Enjoy an evening of carols, scripture readings, and worship in a serene, candlelit setting. Bring family and friends to share in this beautiful tradition and experience the true spirit of Christmas together.
Celebrate Jesus’ birth at our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with carols, scripture readings, and worship in a serene, candlelit setting. Bring family and friends.
Christian faith is a core value because it shapes the lives of believers by grounding them in the teachings of Jesus Christ, fostering a deep sense of purpose, hope, and moral integrity. It provides a framework for understanding life's meaning, encouraging individuals to live with love, humility, and service to others. Rooted in the belief in God’s grace and promises, Christian faith offers strength and resilience during trials, guiding believers to trust in divine wisdom and timing. It inspires acts of compassion and selflessness, creating communities centered on shared spiritual values and the pursuit of peace and justice. Ultimately, Christian faith serves as a foundation for personal growth, ethical living, and a steadfast hope in eternal life, making it an indispensable cornerstone for those who follow its principles.
The church demonstrates love by embodying the teachings of Jesus Christ through acts of compassion, service, and community building. It reaches out to those in need by providing food, shelter, financial assistance, and emotional support, reflecting Christ's command to care for the vulnerable. The church fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing individuals from all walks of life and offering spiritual guidance through prayer, pastoral care, and fellowship. By teaching forgiveness, promoting reconciliation, and advocating for justice, the church mirrors God’s grace and mercy. Additionally, it celebrates life’s milestones and shares the hope of the Gospel, inviting others to experience God’s unconditional love. Through these actions, the church becomes a beacon of Christ’s love in the world, inspiring others to live with kindness and faith.
Community is fostered within the church by creating spaces where individuals can connect, share, and grow together in faith. Through regular worship services, small group gatherings, and fellowship events, the church encourages meaningful relationships built on mutual support and shared values. Opportunities for service, such as volunteering in outreach programs or participating in ministry teams, unite members around common goals and the mission of serving others. Teaching and learning together in Bible studies, Sunday school, and discipleship programs strengthen bonds as members explore their faith collectively. Additionally, the church celebrates life’s milestones—such as baptisms, weddings, and anniversaries—affirming the importance of each individual within the community. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, encouragement, and love, the church becomes a family where everyone feels valued and connected.
Spiritual growth is essential because it deepens an individual’s connection with God, fosters personal transformation, and equips believers to live out their faith meaningfully. It nurtures a stronger understanding of biblical teachings, enabling individuals to apply God’s wisdom in daily decisions and challenges. Spiritual growth helps cultivate virtues such as love, patience, humility, and forgiveness, which reflect the character of Christ. It also strengthens resilience during trials, providing peace and hope through trust in God’s plan. Moreover, as individuals grow spiritually, they are better equipped to serve others, share the Gospel, and contribute to the church’s mission. Ultimately, spiritual growth leads to a more abundant and purposeful life, aligning one’s heart, mind, and actions with God’s will.
Core values such as faith, love, community, and spiritual growth shape church activities by providing a foundation for worship, outreach, and fellowship. Faith inspires regular worship services, prayer meetings, and Bible studies that deepen believers’ connection with God. Love drives acts of service, such as feeding the hungry, supporting the vulnerable, and offering pastoral care to those in need. The emphasis on community fosters small group gatherings, social events, and volunteer opportunities that strengthen relationships and create a sense of belonging. Spiritual growth guides teaching and discipleship programs, equipping members to live out their faith and serve effectively. These values ensure that every activity reflects the church’s mission to glorify God, support its members, and extend Christ’s message of hope and redemption to the world.
The Baptist Ministers Conference of Newark & Vicinity serves the Body of Christ encouraging Pastors in their faith as well as being a force for training new ministers and leaders.
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