About Mecosta County

[Harrison]

http://www.infomi.com/county/mecosta/county.gifhttp://www.infomi.com/county/mecosta/spring1.jpg http://www.infomi.com/county/mecosta/spring2.jpg
Mecosta County originated in the Mid 1800’s due to the expansion of the lumber industry in northern Michigan and it’s strategic position on the Muskegon river with respect to railroad access. It was named after a Potawatomi Chief , and means "bear cub." In the 1860,s this county was a refuge for blacks during and after the Civil War, where freed slaves came to settle and work the land. The fieldstone house at Schoolsection Lake Park (http://www.mecostacountyparks.com/School-Section.htm) in Morton township (http://www.infomi.com/township/morton/) was a traditional meeting place where both blacks and whites came together annually to celebrate the harvest.

Prior to being assigned the county seat for Mecosta County, the City of Big Rapids (http://www.infomi.com/city/bigrapids/) was named: " Leonard." The county consisted of both what is known today as Mecosta and Osceola Counties, with the original county seat at Hersey. As lumbering grew, the two county’s split.

Mecosta County was also home to one of Michigan’s former governors, Woodbridge N. Ferris, who started the Ferris Industrial School, which today is Ferris State University (http://www.ferris.edu/), the County’s largest employer. Traditionally, this School was known for it’s specialization in pharmaceutical science.

Today, Mecosta County is a prime recreational area, with its many lakes, marshes, streams, and of course the mighty Muskegon River. The County Parks (http://www.mecostacountyparks.com/), and Rails-to-Trails offer many opportunities for hiking, boating, canoeing, water skiing and fishing.

[Harrison]

Arts



Artworks (http://www.artworksinbigrapids.com/) 106 North Michigan, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-2420
We are the only non-profit community art gallery in the 2 county area. Serving the community through supporting over 200 local artists and teaching art classes to all ages. We also suport the underserved groups through grants to give them exposure to art activities.
nkitchen@netonecom.net (nkitchen@netonecom.net)
Children's Resources



AYUSA Global Youth Exchange (http://www.ayusa.org/) 11541 Maple, Big Rapids, MI (888)55-AYUSA
Enrich your family, school, and world by hosting an AYA Student or send your son or daughter on the AIFS study abroad program.
Brenda_Schoenherr@hotmail.com (Brenda_Schoenherr@hotmail.com)
Community Action Group



Women's Information Services, Inc. - W.I.S.E. (http://www.womensinformationservice-wise.org/) Located Downtown just East of the light next to Papa JohnÆs on Maple Street, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-6692 or Crisis Line: (800)374-WISE
Our Mission - Equality for all! W.I.S.E. provides advocacy and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Please do not use email address for crisis needs.
wise@tucker-usa.com (wise@tucker-usa.com)
Education



Mecosta County MSU Extension - Bringing Knowledge to Life (http://web4.msue.msu.edu/msuewc/mecosta/) 11485 Northland Drive, Big Rapids, MI (231)592-0792 or FAX:(231)592-9492
Founded by Professor Barry Mehler in 1933, as a resourse for civil rights groups and journalists.
mecosta@msue.msu.edu (mecosta@msue.msu.edu)

Mecosta County MSU Extention (http://web4.msue.msu.edu/msuewc/mecosta) 11485 Northland Drive, Big Rapids, MI (231)592-0792orFAX:(231)592-9492
Bringing Knowledge to Life.
mecosta@msue.msu.edu (mecosta@msue.msu.edu)
Employment



Michigan Works! West Central 110 Elm, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-4891
Jobs for Workers! Workers for Jobs! Your Work Force Connection.

Family Help



Family Independence Agency - Mecosta County Office 800 Water Tower, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-4300


Newaygo County Family Independence Agency 1018 Newell ** P.O. Box 640, White Cloud, MI (231)689-5500
Also Serving: Mecosta and Oceana Counties.

Community Care Center (http://www.communitycarecenter.us/) 297 North Perry Street ~ P.O. Box 6, Barryton, MI (989) 382-5437
See our webpages for more information and services provided.
communitycares@communitycarecenter.us (communitycares@communitycarecenter.us)
Fraternal Organization



Fraternal Order of Eagles 2535 18361 16 Mile Road, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-6453
People helping people. Banquet Hall rental, Catering, open to public. Fish Fry every Friday Night. 5pm-8pm

Health



Hope Network Children and Adults Rehabilitation Services (http://www.hopenetworkrehab.org/) 745 Water Tower, Big Rapids, MI (231)592-1061
Providing post-acute rehabilitation to children and adults recovering from brain and spinal cord injuries as well as other neurologic disorders.

Non-Profit Ministry



Mecosta County Support Group (http://www.nov.com/mcsg-index.html) 1724 North State Street, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-4637
Mecosta County Support Group is a 501(C3) non-profit organization. We are accepting donations of used P.C.'s or cash donations for other non-profit (tax exempt) organizations or schools (either local or in your area). We also accept these donations for Christina.org and PCsForSchools.org. Computers donated thru us can be refurbished for a small amount (usually no more than $150). Donations can be shipped to us, or for a very small fee we can pick them up.
trund@nov.com (trund@nov.com)

Ninth Hour Christian Youth Center (http://www.ninthhouryouthcenter.com/) 164 East Wheatland Avenue, Remus, MI (989)967-3224
The Ninth Hour is a non-profit, non-denominational Christian Youth Center. We offer games such as Ping Pong, pool, foos ball, darts, air hockey and basketball. Christian instruction is available also. Live Christian concerts are also held to support our youth ministry. Open Friday 3PM to 8PM, Saturday 2PM to 8PM. Wednesday morning Womens Bible Study @ 10AM. Thursday Night Men's Bible Study @ 7PM. Available for use by other Christian groups upon request. The Ninth Hour is willing to accept your tax deductable donations of money or equipment.
ninthhouryc@hotmail.com (ninthhouryc@hotmail.com)
Political



Mecosta County GOP (http://www.mecostacountygop.com/) 101 South Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI (231)660-0180
Limited Govenment + Strong Natinal Defense + Individual Liberty & Responsibility +Lower Taxes + Up to date Candidate infomation, Conservative issues Library.
chair@mecostacountygop.com (chair@mecostacountygop.com)

Mecosta County Republicans (http://www.mecostacountygop.com/) 101 South Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI (231)660-0180
Limited Govenment, Strong National Defense, Individual Liberty & Responsiblility, Lower Taxes. Up to date Candidate and issues information.
chair@mecostacountygop.com (chair@mecostacountygop.com)
Service



Mecosta County Habitat for Humanity (http://www.infomi.com/county/mi/mecosta/habitat/) 8520 100th Avenue, Stanwood, MI (231)972-2100
Mecosta County Habitat for Humanity is a Christian Housing Ministry that partners with low income families of Mecosta County regardless of race, creed, or color, to build simple, decent, affordable homes; and to provide families the opportunity to improve their self esteem and develop into active citizens in our community.
banstraj@bus02.ferris.edu (banstraj@bus02.ferris.edu)
Social Services



H.E.L.P. Pregnancy Center (http://www.infomi.com/city/mi/bigrapids/help.html) 218 South Warren Street, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-4919
A friendly office committed to helping women.

Project Starburst 120 South State Street, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-5342
Helpful supplies when you need them. Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Red Cross 218 South Warren, Big Rapids, MI (231)796-6562


Sports



FSU Junior Bulldog Club 210 Sports Drive, Big Rapids, MI (231)592-2863
Hey Kids! Get in on all the action by becoming a member. Obtain discounts and free admission to all home football, volleyball, and basketball games AND MORE.

[Harrison]

Assembly of God



Big Rapids Assembly of God (http://www.bragonline.org/) 14200 Northland Drive, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-7121 Pastor Kevin Payne
Sunday School 9:30am, Worship Service 10:30am
bigrapidsag@yahoo.com (bigrapidsag@yahoo.com)

Baptist



First Baptist 200 South Stewart, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-8243
Sunday School 9:45am Worship Service 11:00am (Broadcast over WBRN FM) Evening Service 6:00pm Wednesday Service 7:00pm.

First Baptist Church of Morley (http://www.firstbaptistmorley.org/) 248 North Cass, Morley, MI 49336
Phone: (231)856-7003 Pastor Steve Finn
Independent - Fundamental - Separated - KJV - Soul Winning As Pastor I want to take this opportunity to invite you to our church. We have a warm, friendly church, and you will feel more than welcome.
information@firstbaptistmorley.org (information@firstbaptistmorley.org)

Catholic



St. Mary's 1009 Marion Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-5202
Daily Mass: 8:15am Saturday Eve Mass: 5:30pm Sunday Masses: 8:00am and 10:30am.

St. Michael the Archangel Parish (http://www.stmichaelsremus.net/) 5045 Nine Mile Road, Remus, MI 49340
Phone: (989)967-3520
Weekend litergies are: Saturday @ 5 pm, Sunday @ 9am and 11am.
stmichaels@net-port.com (stmichaels@net-port.com)

Christian Reformed



Fellowship Christian Reformed Church (http://www.fellowshipcrc.net/) 407 Perry Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-3517
We are a family. We are God's family, united by our belief in God through Jesus Christ and by the power of His Spirit.
admin@fellowshipcrc.net (admin@fellowshipcrc.net)

Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints



Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints 1400 Abbott Road, East Lansing, MI 48823
Phone: (517)351-3430


Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints 1400 Abbott Road, East Lansing, MI 48823
Phone: (517)351-3430


Church of the Nazarene



Big Rapids Church of the Nazarene 514 Woodward, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-8140
Sunday School 10:00am Worship Service 11:00am Evening Praise 6:30pm Wednesday Night Teen/Adult Bible Study 7:00pm.

Reed City Church of the Nazarene (http://www.rccnaz.com/) 515 West Lincoln Avenue, Reed City, MI 49677
Phone: (231)832-5871 Pastor Chris DeMott
Sunday Worship Service: 10:30am & 6:00pm, Sunday School: 9:30am, Wednesday Prayer Service: 7:00pm.
office@rccnaz.com (office@rccnaz.com)

Episcopal



Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church 323 South State Street, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-5473
Sunday Eucharist 8:00am & 10:15am Christian Education Adult and Children 9:00am Midweek Eucharist Thursday 5:30pm.

Evangelical Free Church of America



Trinity Fellowship EFC (http://www.trinityinfo.org/) 15085 220th Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-2600
Sunday Worship is at 9:00 am and 10:45 am. We offer Children's, Youth, and Small Group ministries. Pastor Gary deBock, Youth Pastor Don Hancock, and Pastor of Care Gregg Shewan.
trinity@trinityinfo.org (trinity@trinityinfo.org)


Trinity Fellowship Student Ministries (http://www.powerhouse.faithweb.com/) 612 Fuller, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)592-0933
Trinity Fellowship EFC Student Ministries, POWERHOUSE, lead by Youth Pastor Don Hancock. Come join us for what's always a good time together.
webmaster@powerhouse.faithweb.com (webmaster@powerhouse.faithweb.com)

Free Methodist



Big Rapids Free Methodist 204 West Pere Marquette, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)823-2215
Sunday School: 10:00 am Worship Services: 11:00am and 6:00 pm. Midweek prayer meeting and Bible study Wednesday at 7:00pm.

Big Rapids Free Methodist Church 204 West Pere Mdarquette, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-6505 Pastor Mark F. Lofquist
Sunday School for all ages: 10:00 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Midweek Prayer Time: Wednesdays at 7:00 PM. Come Grow with us! You are welcome here!
dandmlofquist@sbcglobal.net (dandmlofquist@sbcglobal.net)


Stanwood Free Methodist Church Corner of Pierce and Stanwood Drive, Stanwood, MI 0
Phone: (231)823-2115
Sunday Services Sunday School 9:45am Morning Worship 11:00am Evening Service 6:30pm Wednesday Services Prayer Meeting 7:00pm Youth Meeting 7:00pm.

Independent Baptist



First Baptist Church of Morley (http://www.firstbaptistmorley.org/) 248 North Cass, Morley, MI 49336
Phone: (231)856-7003 Pastor Steve Finn
Independent - Fundamental - Separated - KJV - Soul Winning As Pastor I want to take this opportunity to invite you to our church. We have a warm, friendly church, and you will feel more than welcome.
information@firstbaptistmorley.org (information@firstbaptistmorley.org)

Independent Fundamental Christian



First Baptist Church of Morley (http://www.firstbaptistmorley.org/) 248 North Cass, Morley, MI 49336
Phone: (231)856-7003 Pastor Steve Finn
Independent - Fundamental - Separated - KJV - Soul Winning As Pastor I want to take this opportunity to invite you to our church. We have a warm, friendly church, and you will feel more than welcome.
information@firstbaptistmorley.org (information@firstbaptistmorley.org)

Jehovah's Witnesses



Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses 21291 17 Mile Road, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-6771 Floyd Willis (231)796-3777
Public Talk and Watchtower study Sunday 10:00 a.m. public welcome. Can call 796-6771 or 796-3777 for free home bible study or more information.
dsent@tucker-usa.com (dsent@tucker-usa.com)

Lutheran



Good Shephard 18022 Northland Drive, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-3622
Sunday School 9:00am Praise Music 10:15am Worship Services 10:30am.

Immanuel Lutheran Church of Big Rapids (http://www.immanuelbr.com/) 726 Fuller Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231) 796-8273 Rev. Rober Garrels
Sunday Worship Service 8:30am & 11:00am Sunday School 9:45am. FSU Students Welcome.
immanuel@tucker-usa.com (immanuel@tucker-usa.com)


Redeemer 12775 Northland Drive, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-4728
Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Sunday Worship: 10:00am. Sunday School and Bible Class 11:00am.

Saint Thomas Orthodox Lutheran Church Austin Town Hall 14850 Buchanan Road, Stanwood, MI 0
Phone: (231)823-2014
Sunday Worship Service 9:00am. An independent confessional Lutheran Church.

Lutheran Church Missouri Synod - LCMS



Chapel of the Lakes Lutheran Church 9047 90th Avenue, Mecosta, MI 49332
Phone: (231)972-7891 Rev. Raymond R. Pollatz
Saturday evening worship 6:00 pm, Sunday morning worship 9:00 am, Sunday School at 10:15 am, Adult Bible class Sundays at 10:15. A Caring Congregation.
rpollatz@juno.com (rpollatz@juno.com)


St. Peter's Lutheran Church and School (http://www.stpeters.ci.big-rapids.mi.us/) 408 West Bellevue Street, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-8782 Dave Truog, Principal
Saturday Worship Services: 6:00 pm. Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 10:30am (broadcast on WYBR-102.3FM). Bible class and Sunday School 9:15am.
stpetersbr@hotmail.com (stpetersbr@hotmail.com)


St. Peter\'s Lutheran of Big Rapids (http://www.stpetersbr.com/) 408 West Bellevue Street, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-8782 Kathy Dietzel
Family centered ministry. Strong education program including a Preschool, an Elementary School and Adult Classes.
stpetersbr@hotmail.com (stpetersbr@hotmail.com)

Non-Denominational



1st Web Church (http://www.1stwebchurch.org/) 250 Franklin Lake Circle, Oxford, MI 48371
Phone: (248)628-7057
An internet-based church for those who have lost touch, or maybe never got in touch, with the major organized religions. We welcome everyone who feels "there must be something more to life!"
Pastor@1stwebchurch.org (Pastor@1stwebchurch.org)


Chippewa Lake Community Church (http://www.clcc.homestead.com/) 10490 Lake Street, Chippewa Lake, MI 49320
Phone: (231) 867-6051 Pastor Steve Scott
Everyone welcome! Come as you are to this loving multi-denominational country church. Worship Service & Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Bible study Thursday 6:30 p.m.
chippewalakecommunitychurch@yahoo.com (chippewalakecommunitychurch@yahoo.com)


Country Valley Community Church (http://www.countryvalley.com/) 732 Perry PMB 148, Big Rapids, MI 49639
Phone: 231-796-3585 Ron Weller
Contemporary worship service, begining at 10:30. Childrens classes and nursery available. Currently meeting at Crossroads Charter School, 215 N State St, Big Rapids.
info@countryvalley.com (info@countryvalley.com)


Resurrection Life Church - Big Rapids (http://www.rlcbigrapids.org/) 14734 215th Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-4080
Making a Difference and Improving the Future in Big Rapids! See our website for service times. Pastor Tony Karns presents the Word of God in a relaxed,
entertaining style you will be sure to remember.


info@rlcbigrapids.org (info@rlcbigrapids.org)


Revival Christian Center (http://www.revivalchristian.org/) 701 Woodward Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-8228 Pastor James Brandt
Preachings and teachings messages that will challenge your faith and inspire you to go higher spiritually. We believe you will leave each service refreshed and ready to fulfill the will of God for your life! Join us on Suday at 10:00am and Wednesday at 7:00pm and find out for yourself why our church has the word "Revival" in it's name! Be sure to tune in to our 30 minute 'Revial Now' radio broadcast which airs every Sunday morning at 9AM on 100.9FM.
info@revivalchristian.org (info@revivalchristian.org)

Presbyterian Church USA



United Church (http://www.netonecom.net/~revjon/u-church.html) 120 South State, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-7124
Church School and Worship Services: 9:30am. Representing two Denominations: Presbyterian Church USA and The United Church of Christ. The service is broadcast live on WBRN.

United Methodist



Big RapidsUnited Methodist Parish Third Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-4157
Worship Services Paris 9:00am Third Avenue 10:15am Rodney 11:45am.

First United Methodist Church (http://www.gbgm-umc.org/bigrapids) Corner of Warren & Elm, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-771 Bob Jones, Pastor
Summer Worship 9:30 A.M. Children's worship (ages 3-7) & nursery provided.
rjones@tucker-usa.com (rjones@tucker-usa.com)


New Hope United Methodist Church (http://www.new-hope-church.org/) 7296 9 Mile Road, Mecosta, MI 49332
Phone: (231)972-2838 Pastor Vic Charnley
Sunday Worship 8:45 a.m. Traditional, 11:15 a.m. Contemporary. Christian
Education for all ages 10:00 a.m. Free Nursery for ages 0-6 at all services. When Chip Hills schools are in session, join us for FREE Fellowship Supper @ 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings.
newhope@centurytel.net (newhope@centurytel.net)


Northland United Methodist 6842 Northland Drive, Stanwood, MI 0
Phone: (231)823-2300
Sunday School 9:30am Worship Service 11:00am.

United Pentecostal Church International



Lighthouse Apostolic Church 428 West Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-4433 o Pastor W. Paul
Lighthouse Apostolic Church is a bible believing spirit filled church. Our service times are Sunday 10:00am and 6:00pm and Wed. Bible study at 7pm.
giertz@northlandsolutions.com (giertz@northlandsolutions.com)

Wesleyan



Brockway Wesleyan Church (http://www.forministry.com/49336bwc) 10951 3 Mile Road, Morley, MI 49336
Phone: (517)352-7719 Pastor David W. Hansen
Sunday School 9:30 Morning Worship 10:40 Eve. Worship 6:00 Wednesdays 7:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study, Youth Group, Young Adults and Children. We would love to have you join us! Roger L. Cooper, Senior Pastor David W. Hansen, Asst. Pastor.
pastordwhansen@hotmail.com (pastordwhansen@hotmail.com)


Restoration Station Community Church (http://www.restorationstation.org/) 325 North Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231)796-4477 Doran Eichenberg, Pastor
Not Perfect . . . . Good! Neither are we! Join us Sundays @ 10:30am. Child care provided for all ages.
doran@restorationstation.org (doran@restorationstation.org)

7th Day Adventist



Big Rapids Seventh-day Adventist (http://www.misda.org/) 1031 Rose Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231) 796-0771 Allitta
We welcome you to our church family! Saturdays: Sabbath School--9:30AM, Church Service--11:00AM. Fellowship meal
following service every week. Prayer meeting on Friday evenings at 7:00PM.