How it all started...
The Mark Montclair is a vibrant United Methodist community that began its journey in 1880 as the first African American church in Montclair, New Jersey. From humble beginnings with 25 members, but with a powerful, divine calling to serve and transform lives, our mission of love and hope has embraced, encouraged and empowered children, adults, families, and communities. We have made a lasting impact, embraced social justice and community service, and played pivotal roles in establishing key organizations, such as the Washington Street Y.M.C.A., the Montclair NAACP, Montclair Y.W.C.A., the only Y.W.C.A. in the nation founded and directed by African American women.
Expanding the vision...
The Mark Montclair builds inclusive communities through partnerships with businesses, government, faith-based groups, non-profits, and schools. We support seniors, affordable housing, children, youth, and families through camps, scholarships, and education. Our social responsibility extends beyond church walls with initiatives like Toys for Tots, Angel Tree Prison Fellowship, winter housing for the homeless through MESH, partnering with Covenant House, and distributing Thanksgiving baskets. Our partnership with Race Amity fosters deep friendships embracing difference. We collaborate with Friends of the James Howe House and Montclair History Center's “Price of Liberty” film series to preserve African American voices. We established The Mark Cares, Inc., a 501(c)3 charitable organization, to expand our impact.
Where we are headed...
The Mark Montclair's legacy of social justice and community service continues to inspire hope, love, and transformative change. With wholehearted devotion to God and genuine love for our fellow human beings, we are dedicated to empowering individuals to experience God's presence, follow Jesus Christ's teachings, and positively impact the world with a deep-rooted dedication to love, compassion, and social change. Keeping our hearts, minds and doors open, we warmly welcome everyone, as we embrace, equip and empower individuals from all walks of life.
