Nestled into the extreme southeast corner of Grand Traverse Country is the village of Fife Lake. On the Michigan map, it's shown as the dot between Manton and Kalkaska along U.S. 131.
Not only is Fife Lake the name of our village, it is also the name of the beautiful lake on which it's located.
It is a community of less than 500 friendly folks who enjoy small-town living. Even if you have never visited Fife Lake, perhaps you've heard of our "bang-up" 4th of July celebration commonly referred to as "The Best 4th in the North."
Founded in 1872, Fife Lake was once a rough-and-tumble logging community and its frozen lake a source of ice, which was sawed during the winter months and shipped by rail to downstate cities like Detroit and Lansing.
In 1884, the Fife Lake United Methodist Church was formed and still exists today in the same sturdy wooden structure, dating back 125 years. The church is small by big-city standards, but is blessed with an average weekly attendance of 50 faithful worshippers.
Thanks to the enthusiastic leadership of our choir director, Emily Elsen, the church choir is very active. Four years ago, this talented young musician became like the "the little engine that could." She had a vision of expanding the choir and molding it into a first-rate vocal group capable of presenting special programs in addition to their participation during Sunday worship.
Elsen had the dream of presenting Christmas cantatas to the membership of the church as well as the entire community.
With the support and encouragement of the Rev. Howard Seaver and the administrative board, Elsen took on this endeavor.
Beginning that October, she and the choir devoted their Tuesday nights to learning and rehearsing the program.
Selected pieces from the cantata were presented during Sunday services throughout the Christmas season.
The first Christmas cantata was a challenge to all involved, but those in attendance were pleasantly surprised with the results and word spread throughout the community. Soon it became clear that there was a desire for more special music. The choir has also presented special programs for the 4th of July and Easter.
Last year, the church membership saw the need for and approved the installation of a new sound system in the church sanctuary to enhance the audio quality.
The number of choir members has increased over the years, and close to 30 people will participate in the 2009 Christmas cantata. This number includes the welcome participation of a few members from the East Boardman United Methodist church.
Due to the intimate size of the church, the event this year will be held on two consecutive nights. The Fife Lake United Methodist Church and Choir will present an all-new Christmas cantata, "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." It will be held on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m., and again Sunday, Dec, 6, at 6 p.m.
This presentation of the Christmas message features both traditional and contemporary Christmas songs and hymns including nine musical numbers, three of which are medleys of popular Christmas favorites.
There will also be the narration of a timely story and a local town-square scene complete with decorations.
The program is free, light refreshments will be served afterwards, and all are welcome. If you want to begin your holidays in the Christmas spirit, please join us at the Fife Lake United Methodist Church, 124 Boyd St., for an evening of good music and fellowship.
Merry Christmas!
Ed Hungness and his wife owned their cottage on Fife Lake for six years before moving there after his retirement in 2005. He can be reached at edhungness@yahoo.com. For more of Ed's columns, log on to record-eagle.com/edhungness.
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