About Presbyterian Kirk In The Pines

Ed Russell- Building and Grounds Moderator Edward “Ed” Russell was born and reared in Bergen County, New Jersey where he attended the Waldwick Dutch Reformed Church. When the church dissolved, Sunday church became a half-hour bike ride for the youngster to the United Methodist Church. After graduation from Ramsey High School, Ed attended Kings Point, the United States Merchant Marine Academy, where he earned a B.S. Degree in Marine Engineering, a commission in the U.S. Navy, and a U.S. Coast Guard license as a ships engineer. He sailed with the Merchant Marine for eight years. Ed joined the Gulf Oil Corporation in 1965 and began 23 years in the oil business that included seven household moves and four Presbyterian Church memberships. Houston, Texas became Ed and his wife Evva’s major home where they raised two boys and a girl. They now have four grandchildren. Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church (MDPC) was their Houston religious home. Ed served as president of the Men’s Fellowship, assistant Scout Master, church representative to the Seafarers’ Ministry and as a member of the Giving Committee. The Russells joined the Kirk in 2000 after moving to Hot Springs Village and Ed began sharing his mechanical and construction skills with projects at the church. He has served on the Worship and Fellowship committees, on the sound committee, as a Shepherd Group leader and as vice moderator of the Building and Grounds Committee. Building and Grounds Even in a community of beautiful scenery and eye-catching architecture, the Presbyterian Kirk in the Pines stands out. The graceful lines of the church and stately pines surrounding the building beckon Kirk and community members to come inside and experience God's Grace. The building includes several meeting rooms, a music room, parlor and a handsome fellowship hall where after-church coffees, receptions, church suppers and other special events are held throughout the year. An important part of the Kirk's ministry is making this space available for Village community groups. The building is bustling with meetings, conferences and musical practices nearly every day of the week, year round. The Building and Grounds committee organizes this constant flow of activity and maintains the beauty and efficiency of the building and surrounding property.