On the recordFebruary 4, 1998
to begin with tonight, I rise today to recognize the congregation of the Graafschap Christian Reformed Church of Graafschap, Michigan, as they celebrate 150 years of service to God, family, and their community. On April 4, 1847, 14 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, Michigan, on June 20. The settlers soon founded the Graafschap Christian Reformed Church, dedicating their first log church in 1848. As Graafschap Christian Reformed Church grew in numbers and strengthened her spiritual roots, its vision expanded beyond its own congregation and extended into its 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, Michigan, 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.
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