Our History

The Metuchen Assembly of God has always been a testimony to God’s faithfulness and the power of vision. What began as a small gathering has, through the decades, become a thriving church and spiritual home for many in Metuchen and beyond.

The Beginning
On November 27, 1966, the first Full Gospel meeting in the Metuchen area was held at the YMCA with just 13 people in attendance. The late Rev. Norman Kirk and Rev. Paul Respass served as co-pastors, faithfully laboring with a vision to reach the community and win souls for Christ. “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin” (Zechariah 4:10).

A Place to Call Home
For nearly three years, services were conducted in seven different locations before the church secured its permanent property in November 1969. The site, once the Lorraine Petroleum Power and Heating Company, was purchased for $50,000. Construction on the sanctuary began in July 1973, and on June 9, 1974, the building was joyfully dedicated with District Superintendent Rev. John Paproski in attendance.

Growth and New Ministries
In 1972, the church welcomed Rev. Donald and Cynthia McFarren. They poured their hearts into youth ministry and the “Risen Son” coffee house outreach, ministering faithfully for more than 8 years. After Rev. Kirk transitioned to Pastor Emeritus and Rev. Respass concluded his term as Senior Pastor, Pastor Don stepped into the role of Senior Pastor in 1982.

Under Pastor Don’s leadership, the church experienced significant spiritual and numerical growth as “the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47). He also launched new ministries that blessed both the church and the wider community. In 1983, Pastor Don and his wife Cindy founded Dayspring Childcare Center, and in 1986, Metuchen Christian Academy was established, extending the church’s reach through Christian education and discipleship.

Continuing the Legacy
The vision of Metuchen AG carried forward through the next generation when Rev. Greg and Dawn McFarren joined the ministry team in 1999. Pastor Greg became lead pastor in 2008, faithfully shepherding the church for 16 years. His leadership emphasized biblical teaching, missions, and community outreach, continuing the legacy of love and service that has always defined Metuchen AG.

In June 2024, Rev. Ken Jasko began serving as Interim Pastor, guiding the congregation with wisdom and care during this transitional season.

A New Chapter
On October 19, 2025, Pastor Paul Lobaito will be installed as the new Senior Pastor of Metuchen Assembly of God. With a heart for discipleship, outreach, and Spirit-led leadership, Pastor Paul is committed to leading the church into a new season of growth and impact. We believe God has called him “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14) to shepherd His people and advance the mission of the church in Metuchen and beyond.

Our Current Team
Today, Metuchen AG continues its ministry with a dedicated team, including:

• Pastor Paul Lobaito, Senior Pastor (beginning October 19, 2025)
  
  

• Rev. Ken Jasko, Interim Pastor (serving until transition)
  
  

• Susan Howarth, Principal of Metuchen Christian Academy
  
  

• Kim Harris, Director of Dayspring Childcare Center
  
  

Looking Ahead
As we reflect on our history, we see God’s fingerprints in every chapter. We celebrate the faith of those who came before us and remain committed to carrying the vision forward — preaching the Gospel, making disciples, and impacting our community and the nations.