More than 140 people filled Maranatha Chapel to attend Pillar College’s first Traditional Christmas Sing-A-Long on Thursday, December 8th at the Fellowship Deaconry, 3575 Valley Road in Basking Ridge.
Dr. Peter Pendell brought the devotional message as he led the community to join in singing traditional carols, including “Joy to the World” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.” Pillar student and staff member Ambar Hernandez followed these carols with her moving rendition of “Mary, Did You Know.” Pillar College LEAD Executive Director Cindy Weaver served as sign language interpreter during Hernandez’ vocal.
The Rev. Timothy J. Mercaldo was at the piano for the entire event that included his uplifting solo of “O Holy Night.” Reverend Mercaldo has performed worship ministry nationally and internationally for 29 years, and is the director of Worship Plus – a Ministry Department of Artists in Christian Testimony International, Inc. Dr. Richard Riss of Pillar College also performed on violin at the Sing-a-Long. Dr. Riss is Pillar’s Associate Dean of Traditional Undergraduate Studies.
Event organizer Dr. Wayne R. Dyer said he was delighted with the turnout and community participation at the Sing-A-Long, which also included a fellowship gathering and light refreshments after the concert. Dr. Dyer said he hopes to make the Christmas Sing-A-Long an annual event. “Our intent this year was to provide a time of worship utilizing Christmas carols in the midst of a busy Advent Season,” said Dyer, who is Vice President of Strategic Alliances and Special Assistant to the President of Pillar College.
“From my observations and from comments I received we more than achieved our goal,” he added. “It was indeed a moving time of worship as well as an opportunity to acquaint our guests with our new campus site.” Pillar College’s association with Fellowship Deaconry will continue in January, when the College begins to hold regular classes at the Deaconry’s same Valley Road address in Basking Ridge.
About Pillar College
Pillar College, founded in 1908, is an institution of higher learning that provides a comprehensive education from a Christ-centered worldview. Pillar is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), licensed by the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education, and is a member of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). Pillar offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs. Pillar College educates, inspires and equips students for excellent scholarship, service and leadership. Rooted in and committed to Christian faith and love, Pillar fosters intellectual, spiritual and social development among its diverse student population. Pillar College has locations in Newark, Basking Ridge, Paterson, Plainfield and Jersey City, New Jersey. For more information about Pillar College, visit https://pillar.edu
