History
The First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains is many things to different people. It is a church that has served the community for over 265 years and occupies a central place in our historic town. The front door is directly opposite the entrance to the Town Hall across the main thoroughfare of the town, the Newark-Pompton Turnpike.
Our sanctuary is exquisite and reflective of colonial days. Its features articulate the integrity and simplicity of Reformed worship. It is a place where people gather daily for private prayer, and weekly for exuberant worship. Our sanctuary is open weekdays at 6:45am.
What makes our church most special is the people. We are made up of a wide variety of people who avow a multitude of faith expressions. Although we are all very Christian in theological commitment, we are open to and tolerant of people of all creeds and convictions. We attempt to make it known that Christ came to draw all people into a relationship with God that would bring peace, justice and harmony to our world. We don’t know all the answers to the many theological questions, and don’t attempt to give the impression we do. Rather we try to live so that it may be said of us, as it was of the early Christians: "see how they love one another."
Our roots began as a branch of the Reformed Church of Holland. The Original church was built on the banks of the Pequannock River and dedicated on April 7, 1736. The church located on its current site, was built in May 1771. Teunis Dey of Preakness conveyed one Acre of ground, forming the original lot on which the first Church was built and on which the present building now stands.
The church served as a mother church to many surrounding communities, that later built their own churches as their membership increased. George Washington attended services here while visiting friends. For more than 60 years, Dutch was the prevalent language used in the church services and up until the Revolutionary War, the church records were kept in Dutch.
In 1814, the church was enlarged 16 feet, the steeple was put in the east end, and the walls and windows were raised. There was originally a rental system for pew space. This was abolished on June 26, 1922 upon assurance that the members continue to contribute to the church generously.
Tradition informs us that our steeple is one of the four possible spires in the United States of the Christopher Wren Architecture. Many of our forefathers rest in the only cemetery in Pequannock Township which is at the rear of the church.
When a fire on October 24th, 1937 destroyed all but the exterior walls, the people were determined to promptly undertake the gigantic task of rebuilding our beloved church and to restore its colonial proportions along the same architectural lines as closely as possible. In April 1939, a three day celebration took place to dedicate the rebuilt church to our Lord so future generations could assemble to worship God.
In 1983 we adopted a church logo for the first time, and the slogan "Share the Spirit." In 1986 we celebrated our 250th anniversary.
If you have any other questions about the church's past, present or future, feel free to E-mail the Business Manager, Frank Chara.
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Worship Sunday at 8:30 AM and 10 AM The First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains is a progressive Christian community with doors open wide to all people, regardless of category or faith experience. Our primary purpose is to walk with people in their faith and lives, seeking to grow in relationship with God and one another, and to serve as a light in the community and beyond. What visitors usually notice first is the open spirit of our members who come from a variety of backgrounds with diverse sociological, political, and thought perspectives. We like to say that there is room in our pews for all people. At this church, you will find relevant, progressive teaching, heart-felt worship, honest friendships, constant prayer, and compassionate care for those in need. So whether you’re a spiritual seeker who’s just starting to ask questions about God, or a committed Christian who wants to sink the roots of your faith even deeper, you can find a home at First Reformed Church. Let us know if we can answer any questions you may have. |