A Commission on Archives and History (CAH) is an important partner in the ongoing ministry of our church. No organization, whether it be spiritual or secular, can afford to experience amnesia about its past. When we untether ourselves from our historical roots, we become adrift in a world of rapid changes and misinformation. A vibrant CAH not only serves as the conference’s archival repository, it also gives context and relevance to contemporary local church ministry. Genuine memories that are clearly recalled and can reliably articulated provides future local church mission by avoiding past errors while giving legitimacy to past successes. History that is vibrantly manifested in our local churches directly supports making disciples who are heirs to the “Endless Line of Splendor” that is the United Methodists of Greater New Jersey.

• Nominate potential national Heritage Landmarks while recommending historic sites to the United Methodists of Greater New Jersey.
• Work with the United Methodists of Greater New Jersey and local churches celebrate all or any historical milestones.
• Engage with other Wesleyan denominational archives to uplift our common heritage.
• Assist ethnic churches to establish viable history programs to develop their own unique ministry of memory.

The General Commission on Archives & History has added GNJ’s historic sites approved at the 2019 Annual Conference to the list of official Historic Sites of the United Methodists of Greater New Jersey. They are as follows:

• Centenary College

The General Commission congratulates the site applicants, and the dedicated GNJ Commission on Archives & History members for all their efforts to lift up these sites and recognize their vital roles in the church’s Ministry of Memory.