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Contemporary Service

Experience connection, community and contemporary worship – Join us on a journey of faith and music.

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Contemporary Worship Service

We have recently launched a newly imagined contemporary worship service, offering dynamic music, meaningful messages and a welcoming community. This service takes place every Sunday at 5 p.m. in the chapel.

Contemporary Worship Band

The Contemporary Worship Band leads the congregation in music on Sunday evenings at 5 p.m. during the Contemporary Worship Service. Drawing from popular Christian music, guitars, vocals, keyboard and percussion inspire and move the congregation in worship.

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Contemporary band leader

Erika Hallenbeck

Erika is a talented singer-songwriter, educator, and performer with a passion for music that has taken her across the United States. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Montclair State University and a Master's in Jazz Voice from the New England Conservatory of Music. With over a decade of experience in contemporary worship bands, Erika is a versatile performer, skilled in guitar, piano, and vocals. As a dedicated music teacher, she inspires students to discover their own voices and explore the emotional depth of music, continuing her journey of sharing the transformative power of music.

Guitar

Julio Rivera

Julio is a versatile guitarist with 18 years of experience, known for his passion and dedication in diverse musical settings. He has spent nearly 10 years leading worship at IMLP and currently plays at Life Christian Church. Beyond worship, Julio has performed with the band Nothing But Velvet for 4 years, playing at weddings, corporate events, and more, as has collaborated with Rasha Jay. His commitment to excellence makes him a sought musician across various venues and events.

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Bass

Chris Flanagan

Chris is a longtime member of The First Presbyterian Church at Caldwell. As an active member and lifelong musician, he has shared his passion for music, performing regularly with FPC's contemporary services and other related musical events. As a musician, Chris has studied, taught, and performed as a guitarist regularly for 30 years. In addition, he brings his knowledge and experience to playing bass guitar as well.

Drums

Eric Dupont

Eric Dupont is a versatile drummer and educator who has performed at top venues across the Northeast, including the Wang Theatre and Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club. He studied under mentors like Billy Hart and earned scholarships from NAMM and the Music Business Association. A William Paterson University jazz graduate, Eric is pursuing a master's in Jazz Studies as Montclair State University while teaching in the Recording Arts & Production department. He remains active as a performer and educator in the New York and Boston music scenes.

Eric Dupont
Contemporary band leader

Erika Hallenbeck

Erika is a talented singer-songwriter, educator, and performer with a passion for music that has taken her across the United States. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Montclair State University and a Master's in Jazz Voice from the New England Conservatory of Music. With over a decade of experience in contemporary worship bands, Erika is a versatile performer, skilled in guitar, piano, and vocals. As a dedicated music teacher, she inspires students to discover their own voices and explore the emotional depth of music, continuing her journey of sharing the transformative power of music.

Guitar

Julio Rivera

Julio is a versatile guitarist with 18 years of experience, known for his passion and dedication in diverse musical settings. He has spent nearly 10 years leading worship at IMLP and currently plays at Life Christian Church. Beyond worship, Julio has performed with the band Nothing But Velvet for 4 years, playing at weddings, corporate events, and more, as has collaborated with Rasha Jay. His commitment to excellence makes him a sought musician across various venues and events.

Chris Flanagan 1
Bass

Chris Flanagan

Chris is a longtime member of The First Presbyterian Church at Caldwell. As an active member and lifelong musician, he has shared his passion for music, performing regularly with FPC's contemporary services and other related musical events. As a musician, Chris has studied, taught, and performed as a guitarist regularly for 30 years. In addition, he brings his knowledge and experience to playing bass guitar as well.

Drums

Eric Dupont

Eric Dupont is a versatile drummer and educator who has performed at top venues across the Northeast, including the Wang Theatre and Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club. He studied under mentors like Billy Hart and earned scholarships from NAMM and the Music Business Association. A William Paterson University jazz graduate, Eric is pursuing a master's in Jazz Studies as Montclair State University while teaching in the Recording Arts & Production department. He remains active as a performer and educator in the New York and Boston music scenes.

Eric Dupont
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