Gathering in South Jersey

A lot of people find out I've moved from Arizona to New Jersey and ask, "Why'd you do that?" (Folks from Jersey are very subtle, aren't they?)

My answer, in deference to the subtlety, sometimes goes along the lines of "We're on a mission from God. You know, Blues Brothers?"

Seriously, its a great question, whose answer has many aspects...

• From a spiriutual point of view, there are very few people in the Northeast, and in New Jersey, who have a intimate relationship with Jesus, or knows someone who does.
• From a demographic point of view, I have mentioned how Gloucester County was the fastest growing county in the Northeast, and in New Jersey, for some time--it may return to that place in the future as well.
• From a personal perspective, I have also mentioned the proximity to metro Philadelphia and other points of "interest," including the Jersey Shore, New York City, Delaware, the Maryland coast, DC, and all the historic areas of PA.
• Sometimes we mention the quality of the public schools in Jersey, generally, and in South Jersey, in particular.

A colleague in ministry, at the South Jersey Campus Crusade for Christ ministry, has compiled a list of his own that highlights in spiritual and Gospel terms why ministry in South Jersey is so strategic.

I find Jeff's observations to be compelling. Check out his website here and see for yourself.