Recovery Church Shamong NJ

Pastor Erik has a strong passion for outreach and equipping all people to use their God-given talents for serving others in South Jersey and around the world.Erik attended The College of New Jersey in Ewing, NJ. After graduating with a double major in English and Education in 2002, he worked as a youth pastor at Fellowship Alliance Chapel in Medford, NJ. He then launched a new young adult ministry and served as the Young Adult Director for Metro District of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.In 2010, Erik was ordained by the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Erik attended Calvary Baptist Seminary in Lansdale, PA, where he earned his Masters degree in Christian Ministry.Erik and his wife Lauren planted Journey Church of the C&MA in Cherry Hill, NJ in 2013, where they raised up new leaders and built bridges with local businesses and nonprofits. Erik also served as the Development Pastor at Fervent Church in Voorhees, NJ, working with small group leaders and global partnerships. Erik and Lauren also co-founded the South Jersey chapter of Serve the City– a movement that raises volunteerism in an area, building bridges between needs and resources as people come together for transformation. He started the Pastoral Leadership School, which prepares men and women with the head knowledge, heart approach, and hands-on skills required to serve in ministry in our society today.The Vagen family are grateful for God calling them to the Crossroads church family. We believe God is doing amazing things as this church family helps people find truth in everyday life.Two verses that have shaped Erik’s life and ministry are Matthew 4:19 and Romans 6:23: “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” -Jesus Christ “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” -Romans 6:23

It’s easy to recognize when you’re in the company of a charismatic, confident leader. It is also inspiring when that person is completely driven by his faith. Jim Mather has both of those traits. He is totally committed to help the hungry and the homeless in Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. Jim understands what it’s like to be at “rock bottom.” He is a recovering alcoholic who has experienced the underbelly of that dreaded disease and all the baggage that comes with it. So far, he is winning that battle, but he knows those demons lurk in the shadows as they do for every soul with addictive tendencies. His faith in God gives him all the strength he needs in his courageous fight. Mr. Mather heard his calling in 2008 when he noticed the growing number of homeless people on the streets of Philadelphia. One day, he and a friend started buying fast-food sandwiches for the people on the street and it continued each weekend for some time. They had to develop a better way to reach more people. Just look at where Feeding 5000 is today and our trajectory for a bright future. Every day when you’re at work, at home, with family or pursuing your passions, know that Jim Mather is working diligently and compassionately, to ease the burden of those who are not currently able to help themselves. He can be found scouting for food donations, funding, volunteers, writing grants or finding sponsors. Whether on the streets delivering food and clothing or directing meal prep at Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission, Jim orchestrates the tasks like a confident maestro. When you look in his eyes you can see the hawk-like focus…his determination to help the downtrodden and to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ.