Matt Erickson and Haley James
“In a world and a city that both tell us to consume as much as we can and measure our worth by performance, Central has helped remind the two of us to live counter-formed to those messages, rooted instead in the unconditional love of Jesus. I (Matt) came to Central my very first Sunday in New York City, planning to “church hop” for a while. But from the moment I arrived, the biblical teaching, genuine community, and Christlike example of the staff and congregation were evident, and it quickly became home. I’m deeply grateful that Haley later joined me and became involved in Community Group life, and together we’ve had the joy of serving in Children’s Ministry with the two- and three-year-olds. Through Central, we’ve met lifelong friends and spiritual mentors who model what it looks like to live faithfully in New York City. It’s also been a place where we’ve invited friends and coworkers to serve alongside us, taking advantage of Central’s volunteer opportunities, including making sandwiches for the Bowery Mission. Community Groups have been especially formative for us, and for me, leading a group these past two years has been a meaningful way to step into helping others experience the fullness of the gospel and Christ’s mercy. Surrounded by this community, the Lord has continually revealed more of himself to us, reminding us that his love is abundant, and that we are invited to rest in it. We are so grateful for what the Lord is doing through Central Church, and we look forward to continuing to call Central our church home as we prepare for marriage in May 2026.”
In 2 Corinthians 8, as Paul speaks on generosity, he interestingly never uses the word "money"; instead, he speaks of "grace." He calls the Corinthians — and by extension, us — to excel in this act of grace. As 2025 comes to a close, consider how you might contribute to stories of grace at Central.
Gifts can be made at centralchurchnyc.org/give.