Alva Review-Courier -

The little Cedar Grove Wesleyan Church was filled to capacity on Saturday, Feb. 24, for a dedication and blessing ceremony at its new location on the Cherokee Strip Museum compound. Approximately 100 former members and Cedar Grove community members were in attendance for this ceremony.

Nathan Hosier, present minister of the church, presided over the ceremony. Ron Olson, long time former minister, was in attendance and spoke of the years he spent ministering at the little country church. He expressed he and his family felt as if Cedar Grove was still home to them. He is presently the minister at the Cedar Ridge Wesleyan Church in Enid where he moved in 2003.

Warren Little led the singing and the church rang out with old-time favorite songs, accompanied by Debbie Brown and LeeAnn Little. Sally Nighswonger presented a special piano solo.

LEFT: Pastor Nathan Hosier and former Minister Ron Olson presided over the ceremony. RIGHT: Barbara Faulkner spoke of past memories of the church and of the legacy left behind.

An invitation was extended to anyone who desired to speak and reminisce about the ninety years the Cedar Grove Church has been in existence. Barbara Faulkner, Errol Hada, Linda Erikson, Ed Short, Warren Little and brothers Roland and Perry Pederson spoke of what the church and fellowship has meant to them and the legacy the deceased members left them. The congregation is looking forward and plans to carry on the tradition for their children. Pastor Nathan Hosier did a dedication reading and a blessing was also given to the church at its new location.

Many pleasant memories and nostalgic moments were flowing throughout the afternoon, while visiting over refreshments that were served in the museum annex.

The next chapter of the church is already developing with two weddings having taken place and two more coming up. The church will be awaiting the arrival of new people and events to keep the music playing.