[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 115 (Thursday, September 4, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1664]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO THE GRAAFSCHAP CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PETER HOEKSTRA

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 4, 1997

  Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the congregation 
of the Graafschap Christian Reformed Church of Graafschap, MI, as they 
celebrate 150 years of service to God, family, and community.
  On April 4, 1847, 104 pioneers left Rotterdam, the Netherlands with 
the hope of finding religious freedom and economic opportunity in 
America. They arrived in New York harbor on May 23, and settled on the 
south shore of Macatawa Beach in Holland, MI on June 20. The settlers 
soon founded the Graafschap Christian Reformed Church, dedicating their 
log church in 1848. The early church faced many challenges and 
difficulties, but the congregation responded with prayer and hard work. 
By 1862, the church had grown significantly and the current colonial 
church building was constructed.
  As Graafschap Christian Reformed Church grew in numbers and 
strengthened her spiritual roots, its vision expanded beyond its own 
congregation and extended to the community. In the past 150 years, the 
church has been a strong supporter of Christian education. As a leader 
in community ministry, the congregation has supported and participated 
in mission projects around the world.
  The past and present members of the Graafschap Christian Reformed 
Church have had a profound impact on the Holland, MI area. Now with 
more than 500 members, the church is dedicated to continuing its 
spiritual mission far into the future. I would like to extend my thanks 
to Graafschap Christian Reformed Church for 150 years of service and 
commitment to God and the community, and offer my congratulations on 
the celebration of their anniversary. May God continue to bless the 
congregation and their work in the years to come.

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