Submitted by:
Rev. Jack Peters
Pastor, Ringwood Baptist Church
SO THIS IS NEW JERSEY?
I’m no stranger to New Jersey. I was born at Saint Joe’s Hospital in Paterson and raised in Wayne. Most of the shoes I wore growing up were purchased at Meyer Brothers in Paterson. Texas Wieners, thin crust pizza, and Taylor Pork Roll are still favorites of mine. I’m a Yankees fan from my Mother’s womb.
In my professional travels as a minister, my wife, Dottie, and I had left New Jersey behind, not only physically, but mentally as well. Three of our churches could be labeled “rural” or “small town” and we loved the settings. We were not interested in returning to the congestion, hustle, bustle, traffic, and brashness of New Jersey.
You must understand that I work for a “Higher Authority” and that God made it clear that we were to return to New Jersey. On December 1, 2008 we became residents of Ringwood. It has not been what we expected from New Jersey.
I am calling this article and any more I write “View by the Pond”. That’s right, I live by a pond stocked with fish and frogs, and visited by swans, geese, ducks, and deer. We look out one window and see the pond. Another window shows us a large field; still another allows us to view the woods. This is New Jersey?
My surprise does not end with my residence. As I drive around Ringwood I am pleased with the presence of reservoirs, lakes, and woods. The natural surroundings do not hinder Ringwood from having good restaurants, needed services, conveniences, and stores. This is New Jersey?
I’m pleased to say that Ringwood’s people are also not what I expected from New Jersey. They are warm, friendly, and personable. Also, the town is small enough so that I know the mayor, some council members, and the police chief! This is New Jersey?
This native of New Jersey didn’t think he was ready to move back to his home state. Thanks to the Borough of Ringwood, however, I’m glad I did. Thanks, Ringwood!
This is New Jersey!
Rev. Jack Peters
Pastor, Ringwood Baptist Church