2009 Anniversary Service - 150 Years of Ministry

As part of its celebration of 150 years of ministry, Grace held a 150th anniversary reception and heritage worship service on Sunday, August 23, 2009. Special guests were the Rev. Gary Loadholdt and his family, who served at Grace from 1987-1993.

The day began with an old-timey Sunday School opening from the Parish School Hymnal led by Pastor Eric Fink and Sunday School Superintendent Mike Whitlock. photo courtesy of Heather W. Harris
	The official 150th anniversary cake was a special part of the reception.
Mrs. Elizabeth Hunter, who has been a member of Grace for 86 years, blows out the birthday candles.
	Items representing pieces of Grace congregation's past filled tables on three walls of the fellowship hall. The green and white church seen at left has been used in children's Sunday School classes for many years and brought back fond memories for many.
Some folks came dressed in period clothing or rode horses in honor of the special occasion.
	After the reception, we gathered outdoors for the blessing of the centerstone for the Grace Ministry Center. photo courtesy of Heather W. Harris
Pastor Eric Fink and Everett Crafts, chairman of Grace Congregational Council, preside over the keystone dedication.
	Organist and Choirmaster Eddie Rivers plays a medley of  hymns on an antique pump organ at the start of worship service. Grace member Mrs. Deborah Ruff loaned the organ to the church for use in the day's festivities. photo courtesy of Heather W. Harris
During the worship service, a special plaque was presented to Pastor Eric Fink in appreciation of his 15 years of ministry at Grace. The plaque was presented on behalf of the congregation by Council Secretary Heather Harris, Council Chairman Everett Crafts, and Congregation Vice-President Mike Whitlock.
	A close-up of the plaque which reads "With Thanksgiving to God Fifteenth Anniversary as our Beloved Pastor 1984-2009." photo courtesy of Heather W. Harris