Our meeting together for the first time was in January of 1967. The first service was held in a small elementary school in Saline, Michigan, and later moved to the Saline High School auditorium. Many pastors, associate pastors, ministerial assistants and trainees served in the area.

Our joy-filled Sabbath day began with inspiring split sermons with services beginning at 2 p.m. at our current meeting hall, Heritage Hall in Bridgewater, Michigan. Guest speakers were Jerold Aust, who pastored from 1980-1981 and spoke on the number 50 and its significance in God’s plan, and Randy D’Alessandro, who served the area from 2000-2016 and gave points on how to thrive during the challenging times. He said that God’s Church will not be shut down. Special music was beautifully performed by Katherine Larson singing “How Great Thou Art.”

Following services, we met at Weber’s Inn in Ann Arbor amid elegant surroundings, where we enjoyed delicious fine food, including hors d’oeuvres, a three entrée buffet, mini desserts and a lovely celebration cake. A group photograph was taken of those at the dinner who also attended the first meeting of the Ann Arbor congregation in 1967.

Many expressed how wonderful it was to see so many longtime friends and enjoyed conversations into the evening.

It was a joyous day, giving glory, honor and thanks to our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ for their abundant blessings given to the Ann Arbor congregation for the past 50 years.

A huge “Thank you” to all those who gave their time planning and preparing for this special day.

Linda Sylvester