About Us
Who are the Jersey City Bible Students and Other Facts
What is the History of the Jersey City Bible Students?
The Jersey City Bible Students was formed in the late 1800s as a result of the ministry of the Late, Pastor Charles Taze Russell. At that time Christians in the Jersey City area formed a small Bible study group. It is known to be the oldest Bible Students congregation.
It supported Pastor Russell and the International Bible Students Association until late 1916, when it was evident that the Watchtower Society under its new leadership were no longer in harmony with the Divine Plan as outlined in Scriptures and espoused in the writings of Pastor Russell's “Studies in the Scriptures.”
The Jersey City brethren then immediately withdrew their support of the Watchtower Society to function independently of it and others. It has a rich history and has survived till today.
Where are you located?
Although the Jersey City class met for many decades in Jersey City, New Jersey, the class itself today meets in Union, New Jersey.
What are your activities?
Currently the class meets face-to-face at 11:30am on the third Sunday at the hall and the fifth Sunday at a different location. Our meetings are composed of Bible studies, testimony meetings, sermons and other activities. We also meet on all other Sunday evenings as well as Wednesday evenings via teleconference for Bible study and testimony meetings.
You mentioned 'other activities,' can you explain?
Yes, the Jersey City class sponsors an annual convention. Where speakers from various congregations are invited to speak. This convention is usually held on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
We also have what is called a 'Three Ecclesia question Meeting.' Where questions are asked by the classes (i.e., Ecclesias) and entertained by an elder of each class. These meetings are held twice a year.
What kind of studies do you have?
We have what we call 'topical studies.' Using the Bible helps, “Studies in the Scriptures” we study various Bible topics in light of Scripture and reason. We also have verse-by-verse studies of the Bible.
Do you have a clergy class?
No. We do however, according to Scripture, have “elders” and “deacons”. These men are spiritual minded individuals appointed by the class to represent them, leading the studies and shepherding the flock.