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Saddle Brook marks 250th Independence Day with church service, mayor's remarks and bell ringing
Summary
Saddle Brook gathered at the 1st Reformed Church on July 4, 2026, for a community service led by Pastor Tom, remarks from Mayor White, a presentation to the VFW and a bell-ringing scheduled for 2:50 p.m., followed by refreshments.
Pastor Tom opened a July 4 service at the 1st Reformed Church of Saddle Brook on Saturday, leading prayers and scripture readings as the township marked the nation’s 250th anniversary. "We thank God together on this anniversary day," Pastor Tom said, inviting the congregation to a bell-ringing and refreshments afterward.
Mayor White addressed the assembled congregation, praising veterans, first responders and civic volunteers and urging civic responsibility. "We are grateful for the freedom to be enjoyed, for the diversity that enriches Saddle Brook," Mayor White said, and encouraged teaching children their responsibilities, including voting.
The program included responsive readings, hymn selections and a scripture reading of Psalm 100 and Matthew 5:1–10 (the Beatitudes). A historical text — the opening prayer of the 1st Continental Congress — was read as part of the service.
Representatives from the Veterans of Foreign Wars were invited forward and the Community Partnership presented a commemorative scrapbook marking its 25th anniversary. The organizer described recent programs including a sensory-friendly craft night and local summer arts and school programs. Michelle Mount, a middle school teacher and church member who helped lead the crafting effort, presented the scrapbook and thanked the children who participated: "A special thank you to the courageous children of Saddle Brook."
Pastor Tom closed with the Prayer of St. Francis and a benediction, and reminded attendees to gather by the church bell at about 2:45 p.m. for the 2:50 p.m. ringing. Organizers said refreshments — hot dogs, ice cream, cookies and drinks — would be available in the parking lot after the bell ringing.
The service combined religious observance with civic recognition; there were no formal votes, motions or policy actions recorded during the event. The formal portion of the program concluded with a brief countdown, after which the bell was rung and attendees moved to the outdoor refreshment area.
