NORWOOD, N.J.—A thriving multi-cultural congregation in Norwood will mark its 150th anniversary Sunday, May 19 by inviting the community to what church leaders say will be a celebration of its past and its current spirit of togetherness.
The Presbyterian Church in Norwood—which began offering services in 1858, then joined the Presbyterian Church of the USA May 16, 1869—brings together American and Korean-American communities in Bergen County with services in both English and Korean, church leaders said.
“We decided in 2018 to become a multi-cultural congregation,” said Pastor Timothy Son and church elder Doug Henschen in a statement. “This is in no way two separate congregations sharing one building; it is one church, one congregation and one community that serves together guided by one mission.”
The congregation will welcome the public to a special Sunday church service at 10 a.m. followed by a community luncheon at 11:15.
“We are grateful to be celebrating 150 years of history in Bergen County, and we’re also changing along with the community,” Son and Henschen said.
The day will include a special performance of “Sa Mul Play,” a festive Korean farmers’ dance. Featured speakers will include Norwood Mayor James Barsa, members of the Bergen County Historical Society and Pastor Son.
The church moved to its current location at 701 Broadway in 1874, on a property it purchased for $500. Later during the Great Depression, it opened its doors to serve the hungry. The congregation has a proud history of supporting charitable causes at home and abroad, according to its 150th anniversary fact sheet.
