Launched in February 2008 Hoboken Grace Community Church began with a simple dream. What if a church could accurately and passionately reflect Jesus Christ? This dream took root in the hearts of a few people wanting to serve the young urban professionals and families of Hoboken, NJ.
Hoboken Grace started small. Just five individuals committed themselves to loving and serving their city. They met in a dingy bingo hall. Services were held on Sunday evenings and only once a month. There was no kids ministry to speak of. Only a small play area was set up. It was built on hope that children would eventually show up.
Founding and Lead Pastor Chris High remembers the early days. He recalls sitting in that dark ugly room filled with the smell of smoke. Despite the unglamorous setting he felt overwhelmed with excitement. There was also fear about the future. He hoped that they would actually impact this city. Above all he had faith that God could really do this.
Early attendee Stephanie Lardaro remembers those early services. For the first few months Hoboken Grace met only monthly. For the first two years they only had one service at 6 p.m. Because of this there was no kids ministry. They only had a few toys and a mat on the floor. If even one baby showed up they were so excited.
Another early member, Dario Torres, fondly remembers services at 5th and Willow. Services were on Sunday evenings which he loved because he got to sleep in. When he joined there were about thirty regular attendees. This made it easy to get to know people. There were no kids back then since everyone was single or married.
Hoboken Grace’s mission is clear. Everything revolves around helping people find their way back to God. They believe God wants a personal relationship with everyone. No matter who you are where you have been or what you have done.
Hoboken Grace offers multiple service times every Sunday. You can attend in person or online. In-person services are at 409 14th Street Hoboken. There are services at 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Grace Kids is available at all services.
Hoboken Grace is led by Lead Pastor Chris High and Care Pastor Anthony Reimer. Chris has been part of three successful church plants in the New York Metro area. Anthony has been in leadership at Hoboken Grace for over a decade. He also oversees Equip.
Hoboken Grace has grown significantly since its humble beginnings. It now boasts a thriving community. Over 100 children participate in the kids ministry. It stands as a testament to the power of faith community and a simple dream. It shows God’s love to the city of Hoboken.