• REV. RICHARD HONG

    Pastor  (email rich)

    Our pastor since 2005, Rich received the Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary in NYC, and did his undergraduate work at Princeton University, receiving a bachelor's degree in chemistry.


    Prior to entering ministry, Rich ran his own software consultancy for twenty years, writing computer programs for research scientists in the pharmaceutical industry. He is a native of Chicago (and a lifelong Cubs fan), though he has lived in New Jersey ever since college. Rich particularly enjoys teaching, currently teaching several life-long learning courses at Union Theological Seminary after having taught Presbyterian history, worship, and polity at New Brunswick Theological Seminary. He often speaks on the use of technology in ministry. Rich also serves the community as a member of the Board of Directors of the United Way of Bergen County. Rich has a passion for evangelism and mission, and hopes FPC will continue its growth as an inclusive, multicultural, and intergenerational community.

  • DR. DAVID MACFARLANE

    DIRECTOR OF MUSIC  (email david)

    Our Organist and Choirmaster since 2002, Dr. David Macfarlane is a native of Chicago. He attended the University of Illinois and University of Hartford and earned his Doctorate at Rutgers University. Prior to coming to First Presbyterian Church, David was the Director of Music at Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Manhattan for ten years. During the time he established the Musica Trinitatis Concert Series and oversaw the installation of the church's new Letourneau tracker pipe organ. David is active in the American Guild of Organists and currently serves on the National Council as Councilor for Region II. He holds the Associate Certificate of the AGO, and was a finalist in the National Competition in Organ Improvisation held at the national convention in 2002. In addition to playing many recitals, Dr. Macfarlane teaches privately and serves as organist for Temple Beth El in Spring Valley, NY.

  • FELICIA ARRIGOITIA

    DIRECTOR OF FAMILY MINISTRIES  (email felicia)

    Felicia Arrigoitia is so excited to be on the FPC team as the Director of Family Ministries. She has been involved in education and parish life for many years.She holds a BA in Elementary Education & Psychology and for more than 10 years, has home-schooled her 2 daughters. She is a member of the NJHSA and is active in the regional homeschooling community. Felicia has also served many functions, over the years, within her church (youth group, children's liturgy, hospitality, social justice, to name a few) An avid gardener and cook, Felicia resides in Bergen County, with her family and their 3 cats.