Summit Faith Leaders Express Support for Beacon's Application to Move to the Former Red Cross Location

Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation (Beacon) has an application in front of the Summit Zoning Board to relocate its congregation to the former Red Cross property. Beacon has served the City of Summit for more than 100 years, helping Summit residents mark some of the major milestones in their lives. Many Summit residents, including faith leaders, support Beacon’s application to relocate the church.

“Religious freedom is a fundamental and Constitutional right that is one of the founding principles of our nation,” said Rev. Robin Tanner, Minister, Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation. “Summit has been Beacon’s home since 1908, and we are seeking to move our congregation to a new location that better suits our needs and the needs of our community. We are so excited to be able to provide our members with a place of worship that reflects our values.”

The former Red Cross location in Summit was unused and in need of repairs. Since acquiring the property in 2021, Beacon has already started making much-needed improvements to the property, including a new walking labyrinth and plans to plant trees and native plants.

Beacon will be able to better accommodate its members at the new location and hope to continue serving the community for many more years to come. Below are statements of support from Summit faith leaders alike:

STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT FROM FAITH LEADERS

“I have lived and worked in Summit for 20 years. Over that time, I have had many opportunities to partner with both the professional and the lay leaders of Beacon on a variety of issues. Through those experiences, I have come to know that Beacon is the kind of congregation that Summit can depend on in challenging times. I have come to know that Beacon is exactly the kind of neighbor I want to have in my community. I know that if Beacon is able to create their new worship and gathering space, they will continue to contribute positively to the welfare of our beloved city.”

— Rabbi Avi Friedman, Rabbi, Congregation Ohr Shalom, Summit, NJ

“At Christ Church, we believe that a thriving faith community is the cornerstone of a healthy, compassionate Summit. We are pleased to offer our full support for the expansion of Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Beacon is a long-time welcoming, supportive spiritual home and has been an important partner in promoting justice, service, and unity across our community for decades. The growth of their ministry is a testament to the good work they are doing and the deep need they are helping to meet. We look forward to continuing our collaboration as Beacon takes this exciting step forward.”

— Rev. Dr. Chuck Rush and Rev. Julie Yarborough, Christ Church, Summit, NJ

“At Fountain Baptist Church, we celebrate the growth of faith communities that seek to serve with love, dignity, justice, and purpose. Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation’s commitment to spiritual nourishment and community engagement and support aligns with the core values we hold dear. We are proud to stand alongside them as they expand their physical space to match the growing impact of their ministry. In a time when unity, justice and service are more important than ever, we commend Beacon for their vision and are honored to support their continued flourishing in the heart of our beloved Summit community.”

— Rev. Dr. Willie François III and Rev. Vernon Williams, Fountain Baptist Church, Summit, NJ