Sixty-one years ago, with faith and vision, a small group of 28 adults and children ventured forth, in the name of Jesus Christ, to establish a place of worship, nurture and mission. This came as a response to the many new families arriving in the Osceola area of Clark and Cranford to meet the needs of a growing community. The founding of Osceola Presbyterian Church was both the beginning of an unknown journey and a major commitment.

In the summer of 1941, the National Mission committee engaged Mr. Donald Theobold, a student of Princeton Seminary, to canvass the area for members of the new church. Through the generosity of Mr. Thomas Sperry of Westfield, and his mother, Mrs. Kate Sperry Goodrich, a lot on Raritan Road was made available to the fledgling church. The property was part of the Sperry Osceola Farms, famous throughout the country for its fine breed of horses and cattle. While spending their winters in Florida, the Sperry's learned of Chief Osceola, leader of the Seminole Indians, and named their New Jersey farm after him, which was in turn applied to the "new" Osceola Presbyterian Church.

After meeting in various homes and community buildings, the congregation dedicated the original church building on October 24, 1943. Serving as a center for the growing ministry to the community, it was established as the first visible expression of the Christian faith of those early members.

Growth continued in both church membership and Sunday School enrollment, and it became necessary to seek enlargement of the building. A new sanctuary, fellowship hall and kitchen were added, nearly doubling the size of the original facility. On April 24, 1946 the newly constructed additions were dedicated along with a new cross-topped spire, which served to increase the visibility of the congregation.

 With an eye on Osceola’s growing Christian education ministry, the congregation approved a second enlargement in the fall of 1961. Because of its unique location, dynamic church programs, and beautiful stained glass windows, Osceola Presbyterian Church became a beacon for the witness of Jesus Christ to the surrounding community and numerous travelers of the Garden State Parkway.

A tragic fire on September 21, 1988 destroyed the building but not the witness. Believing God to be faithful, plans were made to rebuild while worship and ministry continued off-site. Reconstruction was begun in 1989 and completed a year later. Family and friends gathered on January 20, 1991 to celebrate the dedication of the new building.

Our present church building offers space for worship, education, fellowship and administration, which supports activities of both the congregation and the community. Osceola is a thriving congregation with numerous opportunities for spiritual growth as well as service to our Lord Jesus Christ.