OLD BRIDGE – A multitude of traditional sing-alongs, socials and performances were just the beginning of holiday events held by Reformed Church Home (RCH).
The senior living community offering assisted living, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services in Old Bridge also offered Pastor Sam’s Revival Week.
In keeping with the annual ritual he began in 2003, the Rev. Sam Youssef, pastor of RCH for the past 16 years, presented an array of spiritual services throughout the week leading up to Dec. 25, according to information provided by RCH. Clergy, parishioners and choirs from several local churches participated, including Brookdale Reformed Church in Bloomfield, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Old Bridge, Tinton Falls Reformed Church, Spotswood Reformed Church, Jirah Church in Marlboro and Calvary Chapel in Old Bridge. St. Ambrose Church of Old Bridge and St. Mary’s Church of South River offered Catholic Mass during the month as well.
In the spirit of the season, representatives from the local chapter of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom visited RCH on Dec. 25, spreading cheer and fellowship to residents unable to go home for Christmas and Hanukkah, according to the statement. Approximately 15 women and family members of the group attended. A chair yoga session also was conducted by one of the group’s members.
Other events organized by the Activities Department at RCH included performances by Absolute Dance Center of Monroe and St. Thomas Catholic School of Old Bridge; a musical reminiscing program sponsored by Vitas Healthcare; holiday baking, parties and socials; and a craft sale to benefit Toys for Tots.
Gifts were collected and distributed by Santa himself, thanks to donations by many area churches, including Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Pascack Reformed Church in Freehold, St. Ambrose Church, Pinelands Reformed Church in Toms River and St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Milltown.
