For over 160 years, First Presbyterian Church has been a telling presence in the Tri-Cities and beyond. The church was founded by the Rev. William Ferry in 1836, who settled here after floating down the Grand River on a canoe trip. Inspired by the natural beauty of the area and by the local need for spiritual leadership, he conducted the first worship service on November 2, 1834 in a local trading post. As interest grew, Grand Haven's first church was formally established eighteen months later. William Ferry was also Grand Haven's first mayor and post-master. Ferry Street in Grand Haven and Ferrysburg are named for the Ferry family.

A window in our current sanctuary depicts the four buildings which have been home to our growing congregation. The window pictures the trading post in which the first worship service was held, the first building that was built on our current site in 1885, the "church house" that was built in 1911, and our current sanctuary which was built in 1955. Just as the Rev. Ferry's first sermon was based on the text, "Do not despise small beginnings" (Zechariah 4:10), so the window pictures an acorn and an oak leaf. Great things can come from small beginnings.

A church is, of course, not a building, but the very Body of Christ. We are Christ's mouth, hands, and feet called to be lights of the world. Jesus tells us, "In the same way, let your light shine before men and women, that they may see your good deeds, and give praise to your Father in heaven." William Ferry offered some very specific challenges to his flock as he began his ministry:

• Do you regularly attend public worship?
• Are you training your children in the ways of the Lord?
• Do you regularly worship God in secret, pray fervently, and read the Bible?
• What are you doing for Christ and the souls of men and women?

We have sought to live up to that high spiritual calling, and to translate that spiritual depth into practical ministry and mission. Our members have helped transform this community. Our Ministry Committee had the inspiration for both the building of our local YMCA, and the establishment of Tri-Cities Ministries. One of the principle fund-raisers for Grand Valley State University belonged to our church, as does the visionary who conceived of our musical fountain.

More recently our members built a Habitat for Humanity house in Grand Haven, a community center in a impoverished Mexican Village, and are contributing to the building of an orphanage in India. Our Joyful Noise Preschool and Day Care Center, support of Boy Scouts, and strong Sunday School and youth groups show our determination to share "the good news" with our young.

One of the ordination questions asked of prospective Presbyterian officers is this, "Will you serve with energy, intelligence, imagination and love?" As our congregation grows, we seek to do exactly that. Building on the foundation of Jesus Christ, and the faithfulness of past generations, we seek to continually find new ways to do the work of Jesus Christ. We invite you to join our ministry!