A historic New Jersey church is fighting to protect both its land—and its mission. Christ Episcopal Church in Toms River, backed by the Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey, is rallying public support against a controversial plan by the town’s mayor to seize the church’s 11-acre property via eminent domain and convert it into a park.

The church, founded in 1865, has long served as a beacon of hope for the community’s most vulnerable residents—offering food, shelter, support groups, and dignity. Its latest plan to create a 17-bed overnight shelter for people experiencing homelessness has drawn ire from the mayor, but praise from advocates.

With thousands already signing a petition and a GoFundMe campaign quickly gaining traction, church leaders say this fight is about more than land—it’s about living their faith.

Read the full story about Christ Church’s stand for justice, dignity, and the people it serves:
https://episcopalnewsservice.org/2025/05/15/thousands-voice-support-for-new-jersey-episcopal-church-against-towns-plan-to-seize-its-land/