Muskegon CRC's Light Dims

First Christian Reformed Church in Muskegon’s bulletin for the week of Sept. 9 helps to tell the story of the final days of this once flourishing West Michigan CRC congregation.

In simple, familiar language, the bulletin chronicles the practical and likely painful steps that the church needed to take leading up to this past Sunday's service, which brought back former pastors to speak and found dozens of people who had attended the church over the years packing the pews.

Noting that First CRC has been a light shining for God in Muskegon since 1861, the bulletin dated Sept. 9 made several matter of fact, and yet bittersweet announcements--all of them reflecting aspects of this church’s history and the commitment of its people.

According to Mlive.com, an aging and dwindling membership played a significant role in the decision to close this church located near the shore of Lake Michigan.

It is many of those members, those who have had a strong connection to the church for decades, that the bulletin was especially addressing.

“As we sort through the many items in storage at First Church, we realize some items may have been temporarily loaned. If you have concerns about specific items please contact Ted Hewitt. Thank you Historical and Records Committee,” says the bulletin.

 The bulletin also mentions that the historical committee will be taking bids to sell certain items.

Then there is a reminder to members of the choir: “We would like to have the choir sing during our final service. We would like to practice after the service this morning.  If you are able to stay, please join us.”

 The bulletin also mentioned that an informational congregational meeting was to be held after the morning service on Sept. 8, allowing members of church committees to answer such questions as how to transfer membership to another CRC congregation.

The Women’s Bible Study, said the bulletin, would have its final business meeting on Thursday, Sept. 12 at 1 p.m. at the Pizza Ranch. 

The bulletin also announced that Rev. Ecko DeVries, who served in the church for 13 years from 1974 to 1987, would be one of the speakers at the final service.

For many long-time members of the church, the final service was an emotional experience, says the Mlive.com article.

“I have very strong emotions about this being the last service,” said Tom Cavanaugh, who has been a member of the church for 41 years. “This has been my church home and basically my family for a very long time.”

Church officials, according to Mlive.com, said dwindling membership, a lack of young people and financial issues are the main reasons the church is closing. However, the building will not be torn down and is currently for sale.