On July 11, Newark Church of Christ got a new address, as the street name where the church is currently located was changed in honor of its longtime minister, Dr. Eugene Lawton, who died on March 22 due to a heart attack. 

Details of the Ceremony 

Church members and city councils reveal the new street sign. The new street name has been decided to acknowledge the works of Lawton. Attendees of the ceremony sang hymns, which was a touching event for the family members of the Lawton family, according to the source. 

After the ceremony, a fellowship meal and after-service were held, and those present at that time shared their memorable moments with Lawton. The service featured evangelists, David Lane and James Michael Crusoe. 

Details of Funeral Services 

Eugene Lawton's funeral has been scheduled for late next week at the Newark church. A "homegoing" service is scheduled on March 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A wake will be held from 8 a.m to 10 a.m. In addition, there will be a memorial service on Saturday, March 26, at 10 a.m.

His Social Media Posts Before His Death 

Dr. Eugene Lawton, a longtime minister of Newark Church of Christ, died at 85 and is known for his unfiltered preaching. Friends and loved ones expressed their sorrows about his death through social media.

Before his death, he could post messages on Facebook, one of which was during his 85th birthday on Jan. 28. He stated on the post that he is thankful to the kindness of God for waking him up every morning. He is grateful for God’s Grace and goodness in his life, The Christian Chronicle posted. 

On March 2, days before his death, he was also able to post on his social media endorsing an event. He highlighted the Church Growth Seminar, which the Newark congregation will host. 

The Workshop Continues 

On March 12, Lawton picked up his gospel partner evangelist Charlie E. McClendon at Newark Liberty International Airport before dropping him at the hotel.

Church leaders held a meeting and agreed to continue the workshop they planned. "Doing Evangelism as You Go" is a four-day workshop that started during Bible study on Sunday morning. Church leaders in Newark said they intend to hold a "glorious celebration" for Lawton later, but the priority was on the workshop, a source reported. 

McClendon shared in a Sunday gathering that he and Lawton's mission is to save souls. He said that Lawton would be happy if they continued the event since they were discussing evangelism when Lawton picked him up at the airport.

McClendon continued that Lawton wants them to win souls. He might be physically absent, but he is definitely spiritually present. McClendon added that Lawton’s goal is unity in the church.

McClendon said Lawton had motivated men across the brotherhood during the Sunday morning Bible class, also broadcasted live on YouTube.