Held in the rotunda of the beautifully renovated Brennan Courthouse in Jersey City, the program included remarks about the origins of the church and the surrounding historic Bergen Square area by genealogist and historian, Bob Murgittroyd. William La Rosa, Administrator of Hudson County Cultural & Heritage Affairs, presented the welcome remarks and William Gaughan, Chief of Staff and Councilman of Jersey City's Ward D, presented a proclamation from the County. Mayor Jerramiah Healy graced the occasion and also presented a proclamation from the City. Rev. John Allen led the invocation, and the National Anthem was led by Mrs. Cooper of the Higher Heights congregation.

Skits were performed in 1800's costume by members of OBC's Anniversary Committee, that illustrated the history and contributions made to the community by the members of this landmark church. OBC historical characters were played by Ken Graham, Bill Ennis, Harriette Harris, Marie Ennis, Mary Lou Higgins, Jonilee Ketelsen, Gail Pantozzi and Sue Kornutick. An exhibit illustrating the history of the church was shown and included photos and a model of the Church made in 1841. Refreshments were served and included special OBC red and white wines.

The program was sponsored by Thomas A. DeGise, Hudson County Executive, the Hudson County Board of Chosen Freeholders, the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development, and Old Bergen Church of Jersey City. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS

This special Sunday service was based on the 18th Century worship format, and led by Rev. John Allen and Bill Ennis. The men and boys sat together on one side (half)of the pews while the women and girls sat in the opposite half of the church pews. There were no printed worship bulletins. Rather, the minister or Voorlesser (Clerk of Session) announced each part of the service. Families were expected to bring their own Bibles and Psalm Books (which contained the words, but not the music). Colonial worship involved "lining." Since Psalm Books were limited in supply and few churches possessed organs, the congregations relied on the presenter who led in singing each line or phrase. The congregation repeated until the Psalm was completed. Reformed and Presbyterian ministers were advised to limit their sermons to 30 or 45 minutes, so that the sermons would not interfere with other important parts of worship such as prayer and praise. The elders would have a representative who would critique the minister's message after delivery. Before the Great Prayer, the congregation would write their concerns on small pieces of paper which were collected by the Deacons and given to the minister for prayer and action. Worship started with the bringing in of the Bible during the "Entry of the Word" and ended with "Word into the World" as the Bible was brought out of the sanctuary. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS