[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 60 (Thursday, April 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E952]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   TO COMMEMORATE THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRST REFORMED CHURCH IN 
                          GRANDVILLE, MICHIGAN

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                         HON. VERNON J. EHLERS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 23, 2009

  Mr. EHLERS. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to rise today 
in commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the First Reformed Church 
of Grandville, Michigan. On Sunday, April 19, 2009, a commemorative 
worship service and celebration will memorialize this extraordinary 
milestone, and it is a privilege to recognize and honor Reverend 
Christopher Wolf and the congregation of this remarkable church for the 
model of Christian service and the beacon of hope they have offered to 
the Grandville community over the past 150 years.
  From the first service on April 13, 1859 up until today, First 
Reformed has faithfully served The Lord, the residents of Grandville, 
and the world through its ministries, involvement in the community, and 
missionary outreach. The commemoration of First Reformed's 
sesquicentennial anniversary during the April 19 service is the 
highlight of a year-long celebration of spiritual, historic and 
community events.
  This remarkable anniversary reminds all of us that wonderful things 
do happen when we seek to serve and glorify God. Reflecting on the 
journey experienced by the congregants of First Reformed over the last 
150 years, it is appropriate to reaffirm and strengthen our own faith, 
acknowledge the blessings bestowed upon us, and recognize the call to 
reach out to others and share God's love.
  I am proud to represent the people who call First Reformed their 
church home, and am grateful to this congregation for their Christ-like 
example. I am honored to extend my best wishes on this sesquicentennial 
occasion, and look forward to their service and ministry to the people 
of Grandville for many more years.

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