(NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – NJ Sharing Network recently hosted its 2026 Faith Leader Summit, United in Purpose – Stronger in Faith, bringing together faith leaders from diverse religions to strengthen community partnerships and explore the relationship between faith and organ and tissue donation.
When considering important decisions about life and death, many people turn to faith leaders for spiritual guidance and insight into their religion’s perspective. Virtually all major religions worldwide view organ and tissue donation favorably, recognizing it as an expression of compassion and generosity.
“Bringing faith leaders together helps build a stronger foundation for partnerships that extend well beyond a single event,” said E. Denise Peoples, Manager of Strategic Partnerships at NJ Sharing Network and a double-lung transplant recipient. “Their connections within their congregations and communities can help carry the message of organ and tissue donation forward, reaching people from all walks of life and inspiring a spirit of generosity that can help save and enhance more lives.”
Held ahead of National Donor Sabbath in November, NJ Sharing Network’s 2026 Faith Leader Summit reinforced the value of continued engagement with faith communities across New Jersey.
According to the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), more than 100,000 Americans – including more than 3,000 New Jerseyans – are currently waiting for an organ transplant. One organ donor can save up to eight lives, while one tissue donor can enhance the lives of more than 75 people. To learn more or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit NJ Sharing Network at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO CAPTION – Faith leaders and NJ Sharing Network representatives gathered for the organization’s 2026 Faith Leader Summit, United in Purpose – Stronger in Faith. Pictured (L-R) are some of the attendees, including E. Denise Peoples, Manager of Strategic Partnerships at NJ Sharing Network and a double-lung transplant recipient; Bonnie Evans of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens; Christine Williams of Elmwood United Presbyterian Church and a double-lung transplant recipient; Deacon Lawrence J. Duffy of St. Joseph’s Health in Paterson; Sister Prudentia Osuji of Trinitas Regional Medical Center; Janice Campbell of Christ Church USA and mother of organ donor Dr. Jamila Irons-Johnson; Jay Arisso of Today’s Church in Elizabeth; Linwood Bagby of Second Presbyterian Church in Elizabeth; and Joseph Yaccarino, Manager of Community Education and Events at NJ Sharing Network. (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)