Cranford, New Jersey (August 29, 2025) – Excitement is in the air as First Presbyterian Church of Cranford (FPCC) enters the fall season with two new faces: Dr. Tyrone Clinton, Jr. as Director of Choirs and Laura Simone as full-time Director of Family Engagement and Communications.
Dr. Tyrone Clinton, Jr. earned his Bachelor of Arts from Morehouse College, a Master of Music from Ohio State University, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Northwestern University. He is the founder of The Unsung Collective Inc., a chamber orchestra and vocal ensemble based in Harlem, NY. A gifted conductor and dedicated educator, Tyrone brings a passion for both musical excellence and spiritual expression to his new role in Cranford. He will be directing the Adult Chancel Choir, the Jubilee Bell Choir, and the Children’s Choir—offering musical opportunities for all ages.
This fall, the music ministry invites singers and ringers of all experience levels to make a joyful noise. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just curious to give it a try, there's a place for you. Adult choir rehearsals begin on September 11, and Children’s Choir kicks off on October 2—come be part of something uplifting and fun!
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Laura Simone joins the team as Director of Family Engagement and Communications. A graduate of Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science, and NYU’s Stern School of Business with an MBA, Laura brings together a strong Christian faith, a strategic mindset, and a heart for nurturing meaningful connections. With a deep passion for supporting families in their spiritual journeys, Laura is already bringing fresh ideas to help children, teens, and parents build lasting faith foundations and feel more connected to the life of the church.
“After an extensive and prayerful search, I’m incredibly grateful for the gifts that Tyrone and Laura bring to our church family,” said Rev. Jin Bae, pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Cranford. “Their passion, creativity, and heart for ministry reflect our calling to be a welcoming space where everyone of all ages can grow in faith, experience God’s love, and find belonging. This is an exciting season for our congregation and our wider community.”
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Family Engagement officially kicks off on September 14 as fall 2025 Preschool and Elementary Sunday School classes begin—part of a season filled with faith, fun, and connection for children and families. Bring your child’s backpack to 10am worship for prayer of blessing. After worship, all are invited to stick around for “Sundae Sunday,” a messy-but-fun make-your-own-sundae celebration.
For more information about Tyrone, Laura and upcoming fall activities visit firstprescranford.org.
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ABOUT THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CRANFORD – As the body of Christ empowered by the Holy Spirit, the First Presbyterian Church of Cranford (FPCC), 11 Springfield Ave., Cranford, seeks to live God’s Word and inspire others to embrace Jesus’ commandment to love one another as the Lord loves us. Learn more at firstprescranford.org.
