This beautiful 1830s Greek Revivial mansion is adjacent to St. Matthew's. The Barrow Mansion Development Corporation was established by St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in 1984 to renovate and operate the mansion as an inclusive community center. The BMDC leases the mansion from St. Matthew’s and is currently composed of a mix of directors nominated by the Congregation Council and those nominated by the board itself. Events include children's music classes, art shows, meditation classes, Hudson County's largest number of 12-step recovery group meetings, business and private event rentals, open houses, and our annual holiday party.
We believe that every human being is a child of God, without exception. Because of this deeply held belief, we have had a booth at JC Pride for over 20 years. For many years, we were the only house of worship present.
As one of our ministries to our church community we coordinate a monthly dinner at a local restaurant. This is a wonderful opportunity for church members, the Barrow Mansion community, and church ministry volunteers to socialize with each other. We also welcome individuals new to our church or interested in our church and church ministries to join us.
The restaurant we have been going to is in the Van Vorst neighborhood blocks from the church. It is reasonably priced dinner place that is affordable. If you would like the link to the menu please reach out to the dinner coordinator. Everyone is responsible for their own check. The company and lively conversation is free!
Dinner Ministry Coordinator, Daniel McLaughlin, dmclaugh715@yahoo.com, 201-988-2307 (text only).
Every Christmas, we work with Angel Tree to help provide Christmas presents for children whose parents are incarcerated.
Our friends in Christ, Grace Church, operate a program called "Breakfast Plus" that provides a free, hot breakfast to over 100 guests every Saturday and Sunday of the year. All guests are welcomed and offered hospitality and food without question or qualification. Different crews of volunteers coordinate different days, and St. Matthew's takes the fourth Saturday of each month.
Our two congregations also put on an annual Christmas meal. It is free and open to the community, and it's the best Christmas party in town! Come join us on December 25!