From Laura N. via Tithe.ly: As a former member I have so many fond memories of Grace during my time in the youth group. Sending prayers from PA!
From Instagram: Hannah A., Sharon C., Caroline U., and Rebecca S-W. send prayers.
From Barbara L. via Facebook: As I was driving by the remains of Grace Presbyterian Church earlier I was reminded of the extraordinary memorial service you held for [the mother of a congregant] there so many years ago. That day was truly a beautiful moment of love + loss.
From Bette C. via Facebook: Praying for our Grace Pres family! Paul and I met and [were] married at Grace Pres 40 [years] ago.
From Leona Z. via Facebook: It’s gone. The beautiful church my Mom and I went to and worked at since I was in grammar school! I’m heartbroken! [then in a separate comment] I’m going to donate to the rebuilding of the church as soon as I get my next check. I would love to put food in the pantry as well. I’m in PA now so I can’t come in person. Is there a way I can send you money and have someone from the church go shopping and put food in the pantry for me? I’ll never forget how Grace helped my Mom when she needed food and furniture. I want to give back.
From Grang R. via Facebook: My heart is in a holding pattern — filled with devastation and great loss — beyond all comprehension … the church where I learned the books of the Bible at Daily Vacation Bible School … when I was 8 years old is gone. Prayers in abundance for the firefighters as I write this with tears behind my eyes.
From Karen W. via Facebook: We became members of Grace Presbyterian Church in Montclair, NJ in 1985. We were married there in 1986. [Our two sons] were baptized there in 1988. Countless Sunday mornings spent worshipping and learning … Prayers for the congregation as they process the loss and plan ahead for the future.
From Bill O. via northjersey.com: Bill has lived nearby for 20 years and said the church often has events out on the front yard, plus a food collection box on the lawn. “They’re good neighbors,” [he] said. “They’ve been helpful. But I don’t know if they’re going to save the building.”