2024: A Year of Blessings and Growth at Salem Haitian Church
As we look back at 2024, we thank God for a year of spiritual growth, impactful ministry, and unforgettable milestones at Salem Haitian Seventh-Day Adventist Church in East Orange, NJ. Chief among these was the celebration of our 50th Anniversary, a momentous occasion that honored our history and inspired us for the future.
Spiritual Milestones
Ten Days of Prayer (Jan 10-20): Families led daily prayer meetings, fostering unity and spiritual renewal.
Weekly and Monthly Fasting: Thursday fasting and first-Sunday monthly fasting deepened spiritual commitment throughout the year.
Lay Ministry Bible Study: In partnership with Pastor Dr. Wilfrid Louis Jean, structured Bible studies supported baptism candidates and enriched the spiritual lives of church members.
50th Anniversary Highlights
On June 22, 2024, Salem Haitian SDA Church celebrated its 50th anniversary under the theme "Reflect, Reset, Transform" at the Newark Airport Marriott Hotel.
Praise and Worship Night: The sanctuary choir returned after a pandemic hiatus, joining reunited singing groups and the former church band for a night of inspiring performances.
Honoring Leaders: Tributes were paid to former pastors, including Pastor St. Luc, and Dr. Marcellus T. Robinson delivered an uplifting message.
Sabbath Service: Former pastor Arbentz Pierre Antoine’s sermon resonated with themes of reflection and transformation.
Community Fellowship: Members and guests strengthened bonds while celebrating recent church renovations.
Ministry Achievements in 2024
Baptisms: A 65% increase in baptisms marked a historic milestone, with 28 individuals committing their lives to Christ compared to 17 in 2023.
Membership Growth: 51 new members joined Salem, underscoring the church’s expanding community.
Community Service Ministry: Served an average of 354 families and 77 infants monthly by distributing diapers, wipes, turkeys, and chickens. The ministry donated $3,500 to those in need and organized Zumba sessions to promote health and wellness.
Sabbath School: Enrollment saw a remarkable 49% increase, growing from 108 to 161 participants. Offerings totaled $14,500, and engagement reached new heights as 93% of enrolled members studied lessons weekly.
Youth and Children’s Ministries:
The Youth Department hosted successful events such as Praise Across the Decades and That Great Name, drawing 400 attendees each and fostering relationships among youth.
The Pathfinders grew from 40 to 44 members, with 36 advancing levels and 41 invested. Notably, 9 new Master Guides were invested this year.
The Children’s Ministry upgraded the nursery and classrooms, ensuring all children have clean, modern spaces to learn and worship. Youth leaders also served as teachers, creating a nurturing and effective environment.
Vacation Bible School: Held during the summer, this program engaged children with Bible-based activities, crafts, and interactive lessons, fostering spiritual growth and community among our youngest members.
Music Ministry: Weekly praise teams, choirs, and the church band created a vibrant worship atmosphere. Special events featured musical performances that strengthened spiritual connections and left lasting impressions on attendees.
Media and Technology Ministry: Upgraded the sound system, cameras, and LED lights, enhancing worship experiences. Digital evangelism expanded significantly, achieving a 54% increase in YouTube watch hours, with 62,630 views and 304 new subscribers. Social media engagement grew by an impressive 83%, amplifying the church’s reach globally.
Education Department: Launched an ESL program with 50 participants, offering courses in multiple languages. Preparations for a computer lab were completed, set to expand digital learning in 2025.
Facilities & Business Management Department: Oversaw 10 major renovations, including the pastor’s suite, children’s ministry spaces, classrooms, and church entrances. Digital locks enhanced security, and $13,000 in grants supported community service and evangelism initiatives.
Transportation Ministry: Acquired a 15-passenger van to improve accessibility and ensure all members could attend church services and events.
Financial Stewardship: The church experienced a 33% increase in tithing, marking a historic milestone in generosity and financial commitment.
Acknowledgments
We express heartfelt gratitude to the church board, treasury, secretarial team, elders, deacons, and ministry leaders whose tireless dedication made this year’s successes possible.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the love, compassion, and unity shared at Salem Haitian SDA Church. This year’s jubilee challenged us to Reflect, Reset, and Transform as we continue our mission to serve our community and spread God’s love.
As we enter 2025, may we remain steadfast in our faith and commitment to Christ, drawing closer to Him and leading others to His saving grace.
Wishing you all a joyful and blessed New Year!
Pastor: Dr. Wilfrid Louis Jean