First Presbyterian Church Continues to Thrive

The has been a Freehold Borough staple for nearly 175 years and is one of the community's last remaining historical landmarks.

According to its Web site, the First Presbyterian Church was established on Feb. 21, 1837, with a congregation that dates back centuries.

The church is located on 118 West Main St. and is the tallest structure in all of Freehold Borough.

Its mission statement is, "Because of our faith, we seek to NURTURE a Christ centered church family, guided by the Holy Spirit. Through mission, we seek to share our gifts and talents with others. We believe in reaching out to those in spiritual and physical need, offering love, hope and fellowship. Through the work of Jesus Christ, we seek the will of God, living together in peace and love for each other."

Aiding those in need is a Christina tenet put into practice at First Presbyterian, according to Pastor David Bowman. Bowman has served at the church since 1996.

“We offer assistance to anyone in the community, especially those unfortunate that fall through the cracks of government aid,” Bowman, said.

Bowman, who also spends much of his time assisting the elderly, believes people can not only learn about life from attending church but by volunteering, as well. 

“Many of our young volunteers help communities in Michigan, parts of New Jersey, and even South Korea,” Bowman said. “Sometimes you don't realize how good you have it until you travel to places where those living there are much less fortunate—even in our own state.”

In addition to reaching out beyond Freehold Borough, the congregation and leadership at First Presbyterian keeps the church's historic nature and its role in the community in mind.

“Even when we were renovating the church from the inside, we went out of our way to speak to (Freehold Borough historian) Kevin (Coyne) and the town about it,” Bowman said. “I think that should be protocol for any kind of construction in town, specifically if it affects structures that have been a part of Freehold for decades and centuries. I can't tell you how many old homes I've seen gone or a historical structure turned into a rarely-used office building. It's sad to see.”

Even with First Presbyterian's borough roots, the church draws more members from outside of Freehold—some even commuting as far as from Cream Ridge.

“We have a diverse membership,” Bowman said. He joked, “It's the size that gets them in the building!”

For those wanting to volunteer and participate in church activities, Bowman offers simple advice to get started: “Come right in! Everyone is welcome.”

For more information on First Presbyterian Church and its upcoming events, visit its Web site.