As our nation marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Murray Grove invites you to join us for Homecoming 2026: “We the People: Loving Responses.”
At a time when many people are hurting and divisions often feel deeper than ever, Homecoming 2026 will offer a day centered on inclusive, creative, and positive responses to the challenges facing our communities and our nation.
Set among the historic grounds of Murray Grove, this special gathering will bring together individuals, families, congregations, and friends for a day of reflection, inspiration, connection, and hope.
Featured Participants
Meet Some of the People Joining Us
Homecoming will bring together faith leaders, artists, storytellers and interactive experiences throughout the weekend.
Rev. Robin Tanner
Keynote address and Q&A
Saturday, 10:30–11:30 AM
Rev. Kimberly Quinn Johnson
Keynote address and Q&A
Saturday, 1:00–2:00 PM
Chris Rockwell
Spoken word and hip-hop performance
Saturday, 11:30 AM–12:00 PM
Carol Simon Levin
Judith Sargent Murray reenactment
Saturday, 2:00–4:30 PM
Valerie Vaughn
Music, folklore and New Jersey storytelling
Friday and Saturday
War at the Shore
Interactive Ocean County history exhibit
Friday, 4:00–8:00 PM
Learn More About Who’s Coming →
Preliminary Schedule
Times, presenters and activities are subject to change.
Friday, September 25
Arrival, history, stories and music |
2:00–8:00 PM
Arrivals
Welcome to Murray Grove and settle in for the weekend.
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4:00–8:00 PM
New Jersey History, Folklore and Music
- “War at the Shore” history and activities display from Ocean 250
- Story of the Jersey Devil, told by Joseph of Ocean 250
- Jersey Devil and other New Jersey songs by Valerie Vaughn
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Saturday, September 26
Main Homecoming programming |
9:00–10:00 AM
Registration & Arrival
- Mike Parker’s ancient artifacts display
- Potter Chapel open for visitors
- Walking and history tour led by Carol Haag, Karen York and Kevin Trayner
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10:30–11:30 AM · Keynote
Rev. Robin Tanner + Q&A
Introduction by Rev. Craig Hirshberg.
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12:00–1:00 PM
Lunch Break
- Box lunches
- Walking and history tour with Carol, Karen and Kevin
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2:00–4:30 PM · Across the Grounds
Performances & Featured Programs
- Judith Sargent Murray reenactment by Carol Simon Levin
- “Rise Up and Sing Out” with Valerie Vaughn
- Improv comedy with Marcus Ippolito and friends
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4:30–5:00 PM
Community Closing Reflections
- Reflections led by Rev. Craig Hirshberg
- Gratitude and announcements
- Upcoming events and programs
- Walking and history tour with Carol, Karen and Kevin
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7:30–9:00 PM
Evening Program
S’mores around the fire.
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10:00–10:30 AM · Main Stage
Welcoming Ceremony
- Welcome from Rev. Craig Hirshberg and Louis Quinones
- Message from the Lacey Township Mayor
- Recognition of Cub Scout Pack 156 and leader Kevin Kasper
- Introduction of “We the People: Loving Responses”
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11:30 AM–12:00 PM · Main Stage
Chris Rockwell
Spoken word and hip-hop performance.
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1:00–2:00 PM · Keynote
Rev. Kimberly Quinn Johnson + Q&A
Introduction by Louis Quinones.
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2:00–4:30 PM · Across the Grounds
Activities, Workshops & Displays
- Children’s activities: face painting, bottle rockets and games
- Labyrinth walking led by Rev. Craig Hirshberg
- Additional workshops to be announced
- Mike Parker’s ancient artifacts display and stories of discovery
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6:00–6:30 PM
Sunset Labyrinth Walk
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6:30–7:30 PM
Dinner
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Sunday, September 27
Worship, breakfast and community |
8:30–10:15 AM
Breakfast
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10:30 AM · Cone House
Sunday Service
Led by Rev. Charles Loflin, Director of UU Faith Action New Jersey.
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1:00 PM
Drum Circle
Offered by Unitarian Universalist Ocean County Congregation.
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Ready to Join Us?
Complete the registration form directly below to reserve your tickets for Homecoming 2026.
Also, you can make it a weekend getaway! After you register, contact us to book accommodations and receive the special Homecoming 2026 discount. Space is LIMITED! |