Focus: Celebrating Fair Haven History in a Pastor’s Retirement

Gallery October 31, 2022 Elaine Van Develde

“If you’re gonna worry, don’t pray. And if you’re gonna pray, don’t worry.”

Following his own advice, Fair Haven Fisk Chapel A.M.E. Church Rev. Thomas Johnson will tell you that he never did much worrying. In fact, if you you’ve ever even known him for a minute, you likely haven’t seen a scowl or worried furrow on his brow. Just a bright smile that speaks self-proclaimed countless blessings.

The 10-year leader of the historic church has guided and been guided by his faith, he says, or, rather, preaches, with an “Amen!” and a song. In his stint at the pulpit, he has kept tradition going in a church steeped in African-American community history that, at 164 years in age, is older than Fair Haven itself. Foundation. That’s what the Fisk Chapel is to Fair Haven, separation of church, state and all — never uprooted.

The church is deeply rooted in the borough. It was for more than 50 years before Fair Haven even became Fair Haven. And its now-retiring Rev. Johnson, with the steadfast faith and loyalty of his parishioners, has kept the roots heartily anchored. After all, he “made a vow,” as he said and the church song goes. And he was celebrated for a decade of it on Saturday at Raven and the Peach in the borough.

People came from near and far — literally. Loyal parishioners now in different states and towns, and those still local, came to bear witness to a thankful goodbye. So did dignitaries, Fair Havenites and other leaders of the church from all over. Oh, he’s not leaving officially until March of 2023, so there’s time to “stop on by,” the Rev. Johnson said.

For a day, though, on Saturday, all thanked him, sang, ate, prayed and reveled in the glory of a great history that began before the birth of a small town along the Navesink River ultimately, and aptly, called Fair Haven.

Take a look at the photo gallery below for a glimpse into the glory of the day for the church’s history and Rev. Johnson … Remember these faces? (And don’t forget to click on one photo in the gallery to enlarge and scroll!)