First Presbyterian Church of Woodbridge, NJ

Rev. Lewis Bender, Minister No. 22 (1967-1977)
He had a major impact on the Woodbridge Presbyterian Church, since, thanks to his initiative and leadership, the 1803 church had a complete renovation. After 164 years, the church was in a state of decay. Rev. Bender also substantially increased church membership and started a program of Charasmatic Service.

Born: November 20,1921, Cedarville, NJ Died:

Education: Lafayette College, 1949 McCormick Theological Seminary, 1952, BD Westminster Theological Seminary, PA, 1963 Princeton Theological Seminary, 1966, ThM

Ordination: May, 1952, Presbytery of Detroit

Family: Wife, Kathleen; one son, two daughters

Pastor: Erin Church, Roseville, MI, 1952-56 First Presbyterian Church, South Lyons, 1956-58 Montgomery, OH, 1958-61 Beverly, NJ, 1961-66 First Presbyterian Church, Woodbridge, NJ, 1967-77
Between Rev. Nemeth's departure and Rev. Bender's arrival the old manse was razed and a new home purchased on Dixon Drive in Woodbridge. After some cleaning up, some fresh paint, and minor repairs the Benders moved in July 1967. The manse property was sold in 1972. Rev. Bender preached his first sermon on September 12,1967. He held his first Session meeting on October 16,1967. From then on he lost no time in preparing the congregation for an all out effort of restoration and renovation. In March of 1968 the Executive Board of the Session recommended a 300th Anniversary Committee be appointed. A Restoration and Renovation Committee was formed in December 1970. Contracts were signed with architects Bergh & Bermel and with Willard Dunham Construction Co. and work began on an all out drive for pledges netting only $200,000. The congregation bravely committed another $150,000. The project finally cost in excess of $560,000. On October 15, 1972, the congregation re-entered the beautifully renovated sanctuary. A four month period of celebration culminated in a Service of Communion & Dedication on Sunday, May 25,1975. During Rev. Bender's tenure a strong program of charismatic service began with Prayer & Praise & Healing Sessions during the week. On May 10, 1977, Rev. Bender requested his ministry in Woodbridge be terminated.

	Born: November 20,1921, Cedarville, NJ Died:
	Education: Lafayette College, 1949 McCormick Theological Seminary, 1952, BD Westminster Theological Seminary, PA, 1963 Princeton Theological Seminary, 1966, ThM
	Ordination: May, 1952, Presbytery of Detroit
	Family: Wife, Kathleen; one son, two daughters
	Pastor: Erin Church, Roseville, MI, 1952-56 First Presbyterian Church, South Lyons, 1956-58 Montgomery, OH, 1958-61 Beverly, NJ, 1961-66 First Presbyterian Church, Woodbridge, NJ, 1967-77
	Between Rev. Nemeth's departure and Rev. Bender's arrival the old manse was razed and a new home purchased on Dixon Drive in Woodbridge. After some cleaning up, some fresh paint, and minor repairs the Benders moved in July 1967. The manse property was sold in 1972. Rev. Bender preached his first sermon on September 12,1967. He held his first Session meeting on October 16,1967. From then on he lost no time in preparing the congregation for an all out effort of restoration and renovation. In March of 1968 the Executive Board of the Session recommended a 300th Anniversary Committee be appointed. A Restoration and Renovation Committee was formed in December 1970. Contracts were signed with architects Bergh & Bermel and with Willard Dunham Construction Co. and work began on an all out drive for pledges netting only $200,000. The congregation bravely committed another $150,000. The project finally cost in excess of $560,000. On October 15, 1972, the congregation re-entered the beautifully renovated sanctuary. A four month period of celebration culminated in a Service of Communion & Dedication on Sunday, May 25,1975. During Rev. Bender's tenure a strong program of charismatic service began with Prayer & Praise & Healing Sessions during the week. On May 10, 1977, Rev. Bender requested his ministry in Woodbridge be terminated.