Organ Recital
IJason Branham treated us to an organ recital, "Hands Across the C's," in which he played organ music on both sides of the Atlantic, and spanning over 300 years. Music from Germany, United States, and France included Bach, Diemer, Albright, and Widor. Pieces included impressive footwork and a piece, "Variations on Endless Song," that Jason recently premiered at the American Guild of Organists' National Convention.
more pictures of Jason's reception...
Beach
Party: Surfin' Through the Scriptures
Vacation
Bible School
We
had a blast this year during our VBS. We met from
9:00 AM until noon, Monday through Friday. The
Theme this year was a beach party . The
children learned some interesting facts and had
a whole bunch of fun.
more
VBS pictures...
Debut of Beginner
Bells
The
new group of beginner bells had their debut in the
worship service. None of these adventurous souls
had played bells before, but they worked hard and
did a terrific job. We all look forward to hearing
more from them. Obviously, they need a permanent
name. Contact Jason Branham with any suggestions!
more
beginner bells pictures...
Welcome Jason,
Minister of Music
Jason
Branham is our new Minister of Music, coming to
us after 4 years at St. John Lutheran Church in
Dundee, Michigan. Jason holds a M.M. in organ performance
from the University of Michigan. He is continuing
his studies with Mariyln Mason at U. of M. while
working on his doctorate in organ performance. We
are very fortunate to have Jason with us. Welcome,
Jason!
more
pictures of Jason's welcome reception...
Staff Appreciation
Dinner
The
appreciation dinner for staff, elders, and deacons
was a great success. There were two, count them,
TWO kinds of Presbyterian chicken. Plus all the
trimmings. It was all very delicious. Special thanks
to the cooks, setup crews and the cleanup crews!
more
staff appreciation pictures...
Welcome Pastor Jan!
Welcome
Pastor Janet Van Lear, as our Interim Pastor! Pastor
Jan has been busy even before she officially started
work at First Pres! We had a wonderful welcoming
reception for her. We're glad she's here. We know
our time working with her during the next year will
be productive and spiritually uplifting. Welcome!
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Hanging the Greens
Advent means it's time to hang the greens! Many volunteers came to decorate the sanctuary, parlor, and other rooms in the church with Christmas trees, wreaths, swags, ornaments, and lots and lots of lights. Following the hard work, we celebrated with supper and a worship service.
more pictures of hanging the greens...
Worship in the Park
Once a year we pack a lunch and head for worship service in Bertrand Park. This year the weather cooperated and we participated in worship in our lawn chairs and sitting on the grass. Afterwards there was plenty of food, and games for all ages.
more pictures of Worship in the Park...
Spring Fling
The
kids worked very hard to present "Creation,"
as an integral part of the worship service. With
music, narration, and a few funny parts, the kids
provided the sermon based on the text of Noah's
ark. It went flawlessly! Thanks, Jason, Bonnie,
and parents for helping to put together this spring
program.
more
spring fling pictures...
Earth Day
In
celebration of Earth Day, people brought in all
manner of art, collectibles, organic food, demonstrations
and information to show how nature impacts our lives.
We have a VERY talented congregation; lots of different
interests and viewpoints were evident from the extensive
displays! From sculptures, pottery, quilts, paintings,
gourds, painted rocks, plates, and even a play tent,
there was plenty to see and admire. The central
theme of the worship service was God's creations
and our role as caretakers in it. It was a wonderful
day.Thank you, Merrill, for envisioning this event
and making it happen!
more
pictures of Earth Day displays...
Chili Dinner
The
Chili Dinner fundraiser was well-attended. As expected,
the food was great, thanks to hardworking ranch
hands. There was plenty to go around, and even enough
to sell quarts of chili on Sunday to those who couldn't
make it to the dinner. Proceeds will go to the Deacon's
mission funds. Thanks for your support!
more
pictures from the chili dinner...
Cookie Walk and
Fabric Sale
The
Deacon's Cookie Walk and the REAP Fabric Sale were
a great success. The was a steady stream of people
all morning, with lots of camaraderie. The Deacons
sold all their cookies; even the crumbs gradually
disappeared thanks to altruistic nibblers. The proceeds
of both sales will benefit the community. Thanks
everyone, for making this such a success!
more
cookie walk/fabric sale pictures...
Brian's
Farewell
We
had a bittersweet farewell for Brian Bartusch, our
music director for the last five years. Brian did
wonderful things for our music program with many
memorable events. From building the choir, advancing
the bell choir, starting our first bell quartet,
organizing and presenting spring concerts for choir
and bells, and performing and arranging an organ
recital series, Brian did it all. We're very sad
to see Brian go, but we're also excited for him
as he starts his new position in Grand Rapids.
more
farewell pictures...
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