Celebration Mid-Week - Feb. 11

I have been holding my breath for the last few weeks when I open my email from Caring Bridge.  My friend is dying from cancer and his time on earth is nearly up.  I am sad for his family, for my old church in MN, and for me as I lose a friend.  There are no words that can make this all go away or make it easy.  

My comfort in this journey has been Psalm 13:5-6.  After David asks God what he is going to do about his tough situation, he reflects with these words: "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.  I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me."  

Hopefully we can trust that our God knows what he is doing and know for certain that he has been good to us.  Personally, God gave me many good years of ministry with my friend.  I look forward to seeing him again one day.  So I say my goodbyes to my friend with a mix of sadness and comfort in my heart, "Till we meet again."

1. Events 

- TONIGHT, Youth Ministries at Calvin Church, 6:30-8:00PM - (ages 4 years to 8th grade)  Little Peeps =  Lesson "Nicodemus--Being Born Again!"; GEMS = "Lesson: In a Word” and Valentine Craft; Cadets = Marshmallow Guns; Middle School = Lesson "Solomon: The Ambitious Son".

- Friday, Celebration Game Night, 7:00PM at church.  

- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.  Join us as we journey through Corinth.

- Sunday, Worship Service, 10:30AM!

- Sunday, The Seekers Small Group meets after church in the Oasis room.  

- Sunday, High School Youth Group at Calvin Church, 6:00-8:00PM.  Starts with dinner!

- Feb. 18, Basics for Babes, 10:30AM at Church.

- Feb. 20-22, High School Winter Retreat

- Feb. 21, Oasis Winter Sledding Fest, 3:00-5:30PM.

2.  World Missions - Attached is a letter from Christian Reformed World Missions.  We support this great work to bring Jesus to those who don't know him.  Read and marvel at how God is changing hearts all over the world!

3. Leaders Wanted - We have so many leaders at Celebration!  You know them too.  Help us by nominating some people you know who would be a great servant leader during this exciting year to come.  Send your nominees to Tom Dunning at tdunn93337@comcast.net.

4. Oasis Winter Sledding Fest, February 21, 3:00-5:30PM at Jim and Sandy Ring’s home. Embrace the season with sledding and other winter games.  We will end the day with hot dogs and refreshments.  RSVP to Julie 231-286-9770 or Sharon 231-730-2768 so we know how much food to get.

5. Basics for Babes- We are in need of everything to keep going. This includes: newborn diapers, lotion, baby wash, wipes, bibs, receiving blankets, crib blankets, onesies, sleepers & outfits. Some of these items can be picked up at resale stores if they are in good condition.  FYI – Valueland has ½ price on the last Tuesday of the month. Thank-you for your contributions.

6. Sunday -  We continue our new series "Something New".  Jesus gives us just 3 things for a "NEW Focus" if we want to follow him.  Easy!  They are easy until they impact every area of our life!  (Mark 8:31-38)

7. Prayers

- Missionaries in Haiti,  Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Nepal ask for prayers for political stability in the countries where they serve. In some cases, violent protests have hindered regular ministry.  Pray for safety for missionaries in these countries. Pray for honest and fair leadership during times of election and political unrest.
- Summer plans can fill up quickly and CRWM has a number of opportunities to serve.

- That there would be no divisions among us, but that we would be perfectly joined together in the same mind and judgment.

- That each believer at Celebration would know and understand their purpose, and calling in the Kingdom of God.  

- Pray for Pastor Matt and Carla and all of the other leaders at Celebration.

- For miracles to happen in families because only God can bring them peace.

- For successful job interviews and employment that glorifies God.
- Lilia's father in the Ukraine is 78 years young and in the early stages of dementia.  He is struggling. Pray that he does not suffer.

- For the unspoken problem in our lives that we need God's guidance and direction to resolve.

- For the difficult people in our lives that make for tough days at work or at home.  Pray that God gives strength and grace to show love to them.

- For family members who are not making good decisions.  

- For Patti Lacy's friend Bob who does not have a tumor as feared. He has an infection that the doctor feels will respond to treatment.  Patti has an appointment on Tuesday for her knee. She is experiencing a lot of pain.
- For those driving on the roads during winter that God would keep them safe.

- For Duane Blohm who is experiencing severe shoulder pain lately.

-- 

Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.                            
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

6 Things to Know This Week

The famous ground hog, Punxsutawney Phil, saw it's shadow and therefore predicted 6 more weeks of winter.  That takes us to mid April!  Wikipedia states that Punxsutawney Phil is right 39% of the time.  Doesn't matter to me since I have embraced Winter this year.  However, when it comes to important predictions, I like a more reliable source like the Bible.  

Jesus was the fulfillment of 353 Bible predictions made hundreds of years to his birth.  The accuracy rate is astounding!  Even more, the Bible predicts that one day Jesus will come again and separate followers of Jesus from followers of themselves.  There will be pleasant or unpleasant destinations for each and great surprises in many cases.  

Punxsutawney Phil may sometimes guess right on the weather but I am relying on what the accuracy of the Bible and what it says about Jesus!

1. Movie Night, Friday at 7:00PM, This Friday we will show the movie "Heaven is For Real!" at church.  Rumor has it that Doug is making popcorn again!

2.  Sunday -  We continue our new series "Something New".  Jesus takes every area of our lives and makes something incredible, something new of it.  Sunday we look at our transformation of our OLD LIFE to this NEW LIFE through Jesus.  (2 Cor. 5:17; John 21)

3. Leaders Wanted - We have so many leaders at Celebration!  You know them too.  Help us by nominating some people you know who would be a great servant leader during this exciting year to come.  Send your nominees to Tom Dunning at tdunn93337@comcast.net.

4. Oasis Winter Sledding Fest, February 21, 3:00-5:30PM at Jim and Sandy Ring’s home. Embrace the season with sledding and other winter games.  We will end the day with hot dogs and refreshments.

5. Prayers
- Missionaries in Haiti,  Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Nepal ask for prayers for political stability in the countries where they serve. In some cases, violent protests have hindered regular ministry.  Pray for safety for missionaries in these countries. Pray for honest and fair leadership during times of election and political unrest.
- Summer plans can fill up quickly and CRWM has a number of opportunities to serve.

- That there would be no divisions among us, but that we would be perfectly joined together in the same mind and judgment.

- That each believer at Celebration would know and understand their purpose, and calling in the Kingdom of God. 

- Pray for Pastor Matt and Carla and all of the other leaders at Celebration.

- For miracles to happen in families because only God can bring them peace.

- For successful job interviews and employment that glorifies God.
- Lilia's father in the Ukraine is 78 years young and in the early stages of dementia.  He is struggling. Pray that he does not suffer.

- For the unspoken problem in our lives that we need God's guidance and direction to resolve.

- For the difficult people in our lives that make for tough days at work or at home.  Pray that God gives strength and grace to show love to them.

- For family members who are not making good decisions.  

- For Patti Lacy's friend Bob who does not have a tumor as feared. He has an infection that the doctor feels will respond to treatment.  Patti has an appointment on Tuesday for her knee. She is experiencing a lot of pain.
- For those driving on the roads during winter that God would keep them safe.

- For Duane Blohm who is experiencing severe shoulder pain lately.

6. Events 

- TONIGHT, Youth Ministries at Calvin Church, 6:30-8:00PM - (ages 4 years to 8th grade)  Little Peeps =  Lesson "A Little Girl and a Poor Frail Lady"; GEMS = Badge Night: Cooking Badge Please wear your hair up and be ready to get cooking. We will be baking and enjoying mini pizzas while earning our badge; Cadets = Winter Derby Practice; and Middle School = "David: The Flawed & Beloved King."

- TONIGHT, Book Club - Meet at 6:30PM at Panera Bread. The book this month is "Beautiful Ruins" by Jess Walter.

- Thursday, Denominational Classis Meeting at Reeman CRC.  Tom Dunning and Pastor Matt will attend.

- Friday, Movie Night, 7:00PM, "Heaven is For Real!"  

- Fri-Sun, Middle School Winter Retreat

- Saturday, Cadet Winter Derby

- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.  Join us as we journey through Corinth.

- Sunday, Worship Service, 10:30AM!

- Sunday, Fellowship Team Meeting, after the worship Service.

- Sunday, The New Small Group meets after church in the Oasis room.  

- Sunday, High School Youth Group at Calvin Church, 6:00-8:00PM.  Starts with dinner!

-- 

Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.                            
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

Almost Christmas!

How sad that this quote by Clyde Reid written in 1966 could very much be written about us today: "As we have seen, there is considerable evidence to suggest that Protestant churches in the mid-twentieth century are in serious trouble. By their obvious action and inaction, the organizations often belie their avowed purpose for existence. They tend to be self-centered, not centered on others. They tend to be more interested in programs and buildings and statistics than in persons. In the great social issues of the day, they are foot-draggers, often jumping on the bandwagon to share the glory after the battle has been won by some secular agency. They reject the spiritually sensitive person and fail to help the sinner. They are enmeshed in a massive appalling contradiction between what they claim to be and what they actually reveal themselves to be." 
May we as a church always fight against this!

1. Events
- Saturday, Oasis Christmas Play Practice, 10:00-11:00AM at church.
- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.
- Sunday, Worship Service, 10:30AM!
- Sunday, High School Youth Group at Calvin Church, 6:00-8:00PM. Starts with dinner!
- Wednesday, Dec. 24, Pray For Muskegon, all day. Sign up for your hour to pray for Muskegon.
- Wednesday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 7:00PM. It is a wonderful way to enter into Christmas!
- Jan. 4, Seekers Small Group meets. Terry & Patti Lacy will lead the lesson.
- Jan. 7, Book Club - Meet at the Brew House (on Seminole @ Seaway) to discuss "Faith Bass Darling's Last Garage Sale" by Lynda Rutledge. 

2. Small groups - We will have new groups starting in January! If you are interested in growing together with God and with others at Celebration, contact Brenda Swanson or Pastor Matt.

3. Mitten Tree - It is awesome to see that all of the tags from the mitten tree are spoken for! Please bring your gift(s) on Sunday. We'll deliver them on Monday!

4. Sunday - "There's a method to the madness!" This quote seems to fit when we talk about why Jesus was born in a manger. Join us Sunday as we continue our Advent series: "The Miracle of Christmas."

5. Prayers:
- Pray for those who still grieve after the loss of loved ones. May they seek even more after our Comforter during the holidays.
- That we may be filled with grace when we meet with those whom we disagree.
- Those dealing with loneliness and depression.
- Continue to pray for families who are separating or divorcing. Pray especially for the children who are always caught in the middle.
- For Brenda and Steve Swanson and her family at the loss of her granddaughter Isabella.
- Marilee Schut as she continues to heal from her foot surgery.
- Bill Essenberg as he is nearing the end of his cancer treatments.
- Those looking for employment and feel like they are not wanted or needed.
- The unspoken prayers of our hearts that only God knows.
- Brian and Sue Vredevoogd ask for prayers for their friend Frank who has had his cancer come back.


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

5 Things to Know This Week

Author Randy Clark wrote, "God is not looking for the well financed, the well educated nor even the well experienced in 'ministry.' He is simply looking for those who are willing to yield their hearts and lives to all He wants to do working through them. He is looking for those who are willing to believe for more, because there is more!" Do we as a church believe that there is so much more that God wants to do in us and through us? Oh I hope so!

1. Events
- TONIGHT, Youth Ministries at Calvin Church, 6:30-8:00PM - (ages 4 years to 8th grade) Little Peeps, GEMS, and Middle School = Christmas Program Practice. Cadets = Game Night!
- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.
- Sunday, Fellowship Team Meeting, 9:30AM in the Oasis room.
- Sunday, Worship Service, 10:30AM!
- Sunday, Annual Congregational Meeting, Sunday after worship. Copies of the proposed budget are available on the Information Table. Contact your elder if you have any questions.
- Sunday, High School Youth Group at Calvin Church, 6:00-8:00PM. Starts with dinner!
- Dec. 20, Oasis Christmas Play Practice, 10:00-11:00AM at church.
- Dec. 24, Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 7PM. It is a wonderful way to enter into Christmas!
- Jan. 7, Book Club - Meet at the Brew House (on Seminole @ Seaway) to discuss Faith Bass Darling's Last Garage Sale by Lynda Rutledge.

2. Community Survey - On Sunday, make sure to write down and turn in your surveys of your neighbors, friends, and others in your community! Place them in the collection plate or turn in at the Info booth.

3. T-Shirt Sale - We sold enough T-shirts and raised $292 for the building fund!! 3. Sunday - What is the true message of Christmas? Are you sure? Join us Sunday as we continue our Advent series "The Miracle of Christmas."

4. Sunday - What is the true message of Christmas? Are you sure? Join us Sunday as we continue our Advent series "The Miracle of Christmas."

5. Prayer - Please send your prayer requests to our prayer team so that we may bring them before our God. Here are some recent requests:
- For the LoveINC events: "Christmas store" and "Share The Warmth PJ giveaway". They bless so many with these events and the comprehensive array of classes. May all their efforts help transform lives in Muskegon County.
- Brian and Sue Vredevoogd's friend Frank had encouraging news after his biopsy procedure. They still need to wait for the biopsy results there is reason to be optimistic.
- For those misunderstood and the feelings of deep hurt that come when someone lashes out at them.
- From a Communication Card: "I pray for my boys and the lukewarm people in the world, including myself. His mercy endures forever! Amen!"
- For the craziness and stress that has become synonymous with Christmas time. May we all seek and find Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
- That those who attend church this Sunday will be filled with everything they need.
- For those who have made commitments lately to trust in Jesus.
- Natalie Sims is looking for employment and to make matters worse also has pink eye.
- For all of the requests of our hearts that only God knows!--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

4 Things to Know This Week

I type this email with the words of Ecclesiastes 5:2 in my head, "Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few." After all of the news items and prayers in this email, may we stand before God and not say much! Let us bask in his presence while we enjoy his company and words for us.

1. Events -
- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.
- Tuesday, Iron Man Group, Nov. 11 at 6:30 pm at church.
- Wednesday, Youth Ministries, at 6:30PM at Calvin Church. This is open to children ages 4 through 8th grade.

2. Sunday - "How did we go wrong? Where was the first step of compromise?" When we do not address the little problems, they become big problems with quite serious consequences. Invite a friend to our new series, "We've Got Mail" as we look at what this means for us as a church today. (Revelation 2:18-29)

3. Adoption Benefit - This is a catered dinner & silent auction to raise funds for Bethany Christian Services for Brandon & Charlene Beck's Domestic Infant Adoption. Sunday, November 16th from 4:30pm-8:00pm at the Century Club in downtown Muskegon. Anyone is welcome to attend, tickets may be purchased at: www.westmibenefits.org by November 9th. Dinner: $30 per person, Dinner with drinks: $35. This event is being hosted by Tyler & Rachel Cebulla.

4. Prayers - Please take time to pray for:
- The victorious candidates who were elected this past Tuesday. Regardless of which party affiliation, may they seek God for wisdom and discernment in making bold leadership decisions in our country.
- The families of the recent victims shot to death in Muskegon Heights as they deal with the loss of loved ones. Oh that the violence would end!
- Those dealing with loneliness and depression.
- Carla Eenigenburg’s Aunt Lillian began her chemo treatments this week. Thank God for generous people at her church who are helping her through this time with encouragement transportation, and meals.
- The unspoken prayers of our hearts that only God knows.
- Those feeling stressed out at work and in need of Gods hand of encouragement.
- Sue DeBoer's granddaughter, Audrey, who has been doing quite well and her white blood counts are high!
- The families of the recent victims shot to death in Muskegon Heights as they deal with the loss of loved ones.
- Our “Snow Birds” who are leaving or have left for warmer climates during the winter. May God use them for great things during their season away from us.
- Terry Lacy’s mom who was diagnosed with Hepatitis A.
- Thanks for those who have difficulty in life but continue to say that God is good.
- Bill Essenberg as he started his 2 months of cancer treatments.
- Those in the midst of relational issues.
- Congratulations to Amie Anderson who is now the Dean of Students at Delta College!
- The DuRose family at the loss of Steve’s mom, Joyce. May god give them the comfort they seek.
- Jim Ring's dad who is not doing well after his hip fracture last month.
- Judy Irish’s Mom as she continues to regain mobility.
- Celebration’s building project.
- Those still looking for employment.
- For unexpected money issues.



--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

6 Important Things for This Week

Here are 6 important items for this week:

1. Events - 
- Tonight, Youth Ministries, tonight, at 6:30PM at Calvin Church
- Friday, October 24, Pray for Muskegon, Attached to this email is a prayer guide that may be useful when you pray. Thanks.
- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM.
- October 26, Sunday, Annual Chili Cook-Off, Noon. Bring your favorite red or white chili even if YOU don't think it is anything special. I am sure others will like it!
- November 28, Tuesday, Iron Man Group, 6:30 pm at church.
- November 1, Saturday, Food Truck at Calvin Church, 8:00-10:00AM. Help distribute food to those who need it.
- November 5, Wednesday, Book Club, 6:30PM. Meet at the Denny's on Seaway Drive as we go through the book, "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" by Muriel Barbery.

2. Sunday - Jesus said that if we follow him we will need to endure suffering and persecution. Do we have what it takes to stay faithful till the end? Invite a friend to our new series, "We've Got Mail". (Revelation 2:8-11)

3. Adoption Benefit - This is a catered dinner & silent auction to raise funds for Bethany Christian Services for Brandon & Charlene Beck's Domestic Infant Adoption. Sunday, November 16th from 4:30pm-8:00pm at the Century Club in downtown Muskegon. Anyone is welcome to attend, tickets may be purchased at: www.westmibenefits.org by November 9th. Dinner: $30 per person, Dinner with drinks: $35. This event is being hosted by Tyler & Rachel Cebulla.

4. Directory - This is the final week to view and/or submit photos for our Pictorial Directory. Check it out at Info booth for any last changes. 

5. Building Project Update - We have raised 82% of the amount needed for the next phase of the building project! Our hope is to have the final $50,000 by the end of the year and have the Architect start the final drawings.
The Bigger Better Boat Committee would like every household to turn in a pledge card stating that you will commit to 1) prayer, 2) volunteer work, and/or 3) donate funds toward the project. Please submit your pledge card the 1st of November. It is important that potential donors from the community know the full support and commitment of the people at Celebration. Let the committee know of outside sources and individuals that the committee should contact for donations.

6. Prayers - Please take time to pray for:
- Remember to use this list along with the prayer guide when you pray on Friday (the 24th) for Muskegon.
- The unspoken prayers of our hearts that only God knows.
- We celebrate with Justin and Cassie Vredevoogd who had a baby girl, Emaline Ann on October 15.
- Those feeling stressed out at work and in need of God's hand of encouragement.
- The families of the 3 victims shot to death last week in Muskegon Heights.
- Jim Anderson and his family, Taylor and Carly, as his wife Jan died peacefully on Monday. These are good friends of the Baird's..
- Carla Eenigenburg’s Aunt Lillian begins her chemo treatments next week.
- The prayer team that we do not grow weary in our labor but press on with encouragement from each other.
- Reyes Hinajosa asks that his son Marcos will let God into his life. He thanks everyone for their prayers for his sister Joyce who is doing better.
- Kim Rhodes asks for prayers for her mother-in-law who is 101 years young this past Saturday. She has pneumonia in both lungs but is "still happy and feisty."
- Our "Snow Birds' who will be leaving soon. May God use them for great things during their season away from us.
- Terry Lacy's mom who was diagnosed with Hepatitis A.
- Bill Essenberg as he starts his 2 month cancer treatments soon.
- Nicole Sims; new grandson who is at DeVos hospital.
- Amie Anderson's last stage of interview process for a new job.·
- The DuRose family at the loss of Steve’s mom, Joyce. May god give them the comfort they seek.
- Judy Irish's Mom's moved to the Heartwood Lodge Nursing home. She is making progress with Pt/OT but she has a long road ahead of her.
- For those feeling anxious and nervous about life
- For Celebration's building project as we near the final stages before construction begins.
- Those with unexpected money issues.
- Those looking for employment.

--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

Celebration Midweek - Oct. 15

"Sometimes God calms the storm. Sometimes he lets the storm rage and calms his child." Can you relate? Our God has awesome power to command our storms in life to disappear. He also cares so deeply for you that he brings you safely through the storm. Does it bring you comfort to know this about our God?

Here are some important items for this week:
1. Events -
- Youth Ministries, tonight, at 6:30PM at Calvin Church
- Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM on Sunday.
- Pray for Muskegon, Friday, October 24 - Sign up at the info booth for your hour to pray.
- Annual Chili Cook-Off, Sunday, October 26, at Noon. Sign up at the info booth to bring a red or white chili.
- Food Truck at Calvin Church, Saturday, November 1, 8:00-10:00AM. Help distribute food to those who need it.
- Book Club, Wednesday, November 5, 6:30PM. Meet at the Denny's on Seaway Dr. as we go through the book, "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" by Muriel Barbery.

2. Sunday - What if Jesus wrote a letter to Celebration? What would he say to us? Invite a friend to our new series, "We've Got Mail". (Revelation 2:1-7)  Remember to prepare yourself for communion this Sunday!

3. Adoption Benefit: Catered Dinner & Silent Auction to raise funds for Bethany Christian Services for Brandon & Charlene Beck's Domestic Infant Adoption. Sunday, November 16th from 4:30pm-8:00pm at the Century Club in downtown Muskegon. Anyone is welcome to attend, tickets may be purchased at: www.westmibenefits.org by November 9th. Dinner: $30 per person, Dinner with drinks: $35. This event is being hosted by Tyler & Rachel Cebulla.

4. The Glenside Halloween Party, Saturday, October 25,1:00-4:00 pm in the McGraft Park building. Admission and all activities and treats are free, but participants are asked to bring 2 nonperishable food items to be donated to a local food pantry. Volunteers are still needed to help out at this event. If you can help, please call/text Jenn Cole at 563-6749 or email cole021081@hotmail.com.

5. Job Opening - Love INC of Muskegon has an immediate job opening for the Relational Ministries Coordinator position. This position works with many churches in the area to offer and coordinate our New Directions Life Skills program. Contact Matt Kaley at 231-773-3448 for more info.

6. Prayers - Please take time to pray for:
- The DuRose family at the loss of Steve's mom, Joyce. May God give them the comfort they seek.
- For those who are feeling anxious and nervous about life
- Judy Irish’s mom moved to the Heartwood Lodge Nursing home. She is making progress with PT/OT but she has a long road ahead of her.
- Lacey Kremmel (Hentschel) asked for prayers for her search for work. Also, her husband's back has improved and he has returned to work.
- For Celebration's building project as we near the final stages before construction begins.
- Reyes Hinajosa’s sister, Joyce, is battling diabetes. Reyes' son, Marcos, is having PTSD after his tours of duty. We ask God to give him comfort and help him cope with life."
- Pastor Matt’s pastor friend Devin’s dad has the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s.
- Terry Lacy's step-mom, Dorothy, who has been diagnosed with Hepatitis A involving her liver and possibly gall bladder. She fell last week and is in the hospital because she is very weak.
- The Baird’s friends, the Anderson family, because their friend Janet Anderson who is in the final stages of a rare lung cancer. Please pray for strength, peace that transcends, acceptance, and adapting to their life without her.
- Paula Blohm’s dad is home from the hospital after having a stent put in to open up the blockage in his heart. He is doing fine. Also, Paula’s friend Carla has been battling cancer this past year and received troubling test results this last week. Lift her up in prayer to the Great Physician once again for healing.


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

3 Important Things for This Week

During Joyce DuRose's memorial service yesterday, Psalm 121:1-2 came rushing back to me from the past. Every worship service in the church of my youth would begin with this Q&A: Question: "I lift up my eyes to the hills--where does my help come from?" Answer: "My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." May this be our answer in the good and the bad times!

Here are some important items for this week:
1. Events -
- Youth Ministries, tonight, at 6:30PM at Calvin Church
- Vision Team/Council Meeting, Monday, October 13, 7PM.
- Bigger Better Boat Team, Tuesday, October 14, 7PM.
- Ironman Men's Group, Tuesday, October 14, 7PM.
- Annual Chili Cook-Off, Sunday, October 26. Sign up at the info booth to bring a red or white chili. I love this event!

2. Sunday - So do you ever wonder what will happen if you set up guardrails in life and actually follow them? Invite a friend as we conclude our "Guardrails" series this Sunday. (Daniel 1)

3. Prayers - Please take time to pray for:
- The DuRose family at the loss of Steve's mom, Joyce on Sunday.
- Harold West's resident was in a coma from falling in the kitchen, having seizures, and not being found for 3 hours. She is up and walking around! Everything is not back to the way it was before the incident but God clearly has more work for her to do!
- Judy Irish's Mom who underwent surgery recently on her hip. There will be much therapy to follow.
- Pray for all of the many guests at church recently. Pray that they will find a church to call home and be involved, whether it be Celebration or someplace else.
- God bless Christians around the world being persecuted for living for Jesus.
- Paula Blohm's dad, who lives in San Antonio, Texas and is 90 years old, was admitted to the hospital yesterday. He had a heart attack and also has pneumonia. He is in intensive care.
- Single moms who are just starting out on this difficult road ahead.
- Those looking for employment.
- Amy Hall asked for prayers for a business partner/friend's father who suffered 2 heartaches last week and is now facing open heart surgery.
- Duane and Paula Blohm ask for prayers for their friends: the dad is fighting substance abuse, the kids are in counseling, and the mom has filed for divorce.


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

6 THINGS TO KNOW THIS WEEK!

AW Tozer's book "The Pursuit of God" has quickly become my newest favorite! "The impulse to pursue God originates with God, but the outworking of that impulse is our following hard after Him; and all the time we are pursuing Him we are already in His hand." I love God's grace that holds us, leads us, guides us, and saves us!

1. Iron Man Men's Group, Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 7:00PM -  Our men's group starts up this fall at church next week. Men, this is your group!

2. Annual Carnival, Saturday, Sept. 27, 1:00 PM - This is one of our best outreach events. Sign up for dates to pass out flyers, donate candy, and work at one of the stations.

3. Hike For the Hungry, October 11, 9-11AM - This event at Heritage Landing joins 3 great charities: Muskegon Rescue Mission, Love INC and Catholic Charities. Register at the website and join Celebration's group! http://hikeforthehungry.kintera.org/

4. Youth Ministries - Our ministries to children age 4 through 8th grade starts next Wednesday, September 10 at 6:30PM at Calvin Church. Contact Pastor Matt for more info. Get ready, get set...

5. Sunday - Join us Sunday as we start a new series titled "Guardrails" based on a book by Andy Stanley. (Ephesians 5:15-18)

6. Prayers - Please pray for:
- September 21 is National Back to Church Sunday. Invite a friend!
- Jim Ring's dad recently fell and broke his hip. He also has gall stones, a blood clot in the lung, and had a heart attack. WOW!
- Bob Jackson's amd Amie Anderson's job interviews this week. Pray for God's will and direction.
- Darla's mom is doing quite well post surgery. Surgeon said "we got it all in the nic of time." Her biggest struggles now are not being able to drive or read.
- Carla Eenigenburg's Aunt Ruth who had her gall bladder removed on Wednesday.
- Those coming back to church after a summer (or more) away. May God give them what they need!
- A HUGE prayer of praise for the Baird's friend Darrold Pellegrom who had open heart surgery last Thursday. They were able to successfully repair his damaged heart valve, and every day he's doing a little better & will be able to go home soon.
- Kim Rhodes stated, "I am very happy and blessed that my husband is cancer free." Bill recently went in for a colonoscopy and they found suspicious polyps. They were removed and the report last week that they were benign. Whew!
- Here is a note from the Pray Muskegon Team: "I know some could be discouraged with the shootings and murders that have happened this summer. I have had the opportunity to talk with a couple of law enforcement officers about this summer. One told me that they had been expecting a pretty big uprising from one of the gangs in the area for a few weeks, but it never materialized. I asked, "Why?" He said, "We don't know. It just didn't happen. We had heard stuff on the street, but nothing happened." Another officer told me that there had been some miraculous instances where people survived, that should have been dead, and those that were missed by bullets like the recently. Where a man fired 6 shoots at someone and none of them hit the target. So, we may see some things that could be discouraging, but on the other hand there seems to be some places that our law enforcement officials are seeing the hand of God in."


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

6 Things to Know This Week

1. Pray Muskegon on Saturday - The 24th is our day to pray for Muskegon County. Contact Pastor Matt if you haven't signed up for a time yet.

2. Basics For Babes - In order to keep this ministry going we are in desperate need of supplies: sleepers, blankets, receiving blankets, lotion, baby wash, diapers, wipes, pillow cases - just about everything for bays and girls! Thanks, Marilee.

3. Schools Out - There will be no Sunday School during the summer months. It will start up in the fall!

4. Sunday - New things are frustrating if you don't have someone to help you with those frequently asked questions. It's the same in your journey with Jesus. Invite a friend on Sunday as we start a new series "How Do I...?" as we continue to master some of the basic areas of the Christian life.

5. Events
June 1 - Hot Dog Roast - You won't want to miss this time to connect with new friends and re-connect with old ones!
June 8 - Love INC Fundraiser - If you do lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings on June 8, 20% of your bill will go to Love INC! We attached a coupon in case you get hungry.

6. Prayers - Please pray for:
- Our elders and deacons, especially our newly selected leaders: Elders Tom Dunning and Sandy Ring and Deacon Pam Williamson.
- Barb Hoekstra (friend of Pastor Matt's) who is battling Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She has just completed her round of chemo and will start radiation in June.
- The family of Margaret Workman as they hold the funeral at Ferrysburg CRC on Sunday, May 25 at noon.
- Ruth Hinajosa's son Shannon who is going through some hardships. Pray that God will guide him where He wants him.
- Duane Gray as he continues to have health issues.
- Duane Blohm who is having shoulder problems.
- Our guests at Celebration lately. Wherever they are in their journey, we pray God's peace on them in their search for him and a church home filled with God's people.
- Those who care for parents as they proceed into the "winter years" of their lives.
- Those who have bumps, bruises, skinned knees, other ailments and are basically in need of some TLC.
- For a pastor friend of Pastor Matt's who is under a lot of stress and is dealing with his internal issues including depression.


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

Celebration Midweek - May 7

Thought for the day: "Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear; All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer." No further explanation needed.

1. Clean! - A big thanks to all those who participated in the Church Clean Up day last Saturday. There are pictures on the church FB site if you want to see some of the hard workers!  Great job!

2. Sunday - Outside of Mitt Romney, how many Mormons have you ever spoken with? Are you aware of the differences between Christians and the Latter Day Saints? Find out Sunday as we continue our series "What's the Diff?"

3. Coming Events
- Vision Team at the DeBoer's - May 12
- Congregational Meeting - May 18 after worship.
- Pray Muskegon - May 24 - This is our date to pray for Muskegon County!
- Hot Dog Roast - June 1

4. Prayers - Here are some new and continued prayer requests:
- Steve DuRose's mother is free of cancer! Wahoo! She visited on Sunday and wanted to thank all those who have been praying for her.
- Amanda DeJonge's dad has a stroke on Sunday morning. They are sending him to Saginaw for further testing.
- Austin O. from Brandon Beck's baseball team who broke his foot last week.
- For the great things that will happen as we continue to pray for our country, our cities, our churches, and our families.
- For Fred Schossau's brother, Greg, he is diagnosed with bone cancer, stage 3. They also found a blood clot near his heart and a tumor on his kidney.
- For the gun violence in our community and for the Gresham family with this sudden loss of their teenager.
- For Jim & Jan Anderson, friends of the Baird's. Jan was diagnosed 5 years ago with cancer & was given 5 years at the most. She's now passed 5 years & latest test results/prognosis is 2 to 6 months. Pray for the family and all those who minister to them.
- For our nation which seems divided and in turmoil. Pray for our leaders that God would open their eyes for the needs of the people


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
Like us on Facebook!
(231) 571-4137

Celebration Midweek - March 19

1. Casserole Luncheon, SUNDAY - Stay after church and share a meal together. Stay even if you didn't bring anything!

2. Iron Man Group, Tuesday 6:30 at Western Michigan Christian High School Shop. Everyone is welcome. Will be working on service projects. Contact Dick DeBoer for more information.

3. Prayer Requests - When you have prayer requests for your church family to bring to God, send them to Pastor Matt or to one of the Prayer Team members. We take lifting up the needs of others seriously!

4. Church Safety Training, March 30 - Those hoping to volunteer in the Nursery or Oasis will meet briefly after church for training in our Church Safety policies.

5. Sunday - We would never play favorites or discriminate against anyone else, would we? However, if we're going to look like people that follow Jesus, we need to change some things.  We'll continue in our series of James: A Faith to Live By.  (James 2:1-13.)

6. Prayers - Please pray for:
- Those experiencing car issues: not having a car or having the expense of repairing the car that they have.

- The new small group that begins after church on April 6.
- Brenda Grabinski who is moving around better after another round of back injections to relieve pain.

- Duane Gray who is experiencing bleeding behind his eye. He starts treatment today.

- The many people who are stressed out due to jobs, family relationships, and other factors.
- For the many unspoken prayer requests that only God knows, hears, and answers.


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.org
(231) 571-4137

5 Things for This Week

Celebration,
For those who feel worn out, here is some good news from Isaiah 40:30-31: "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

1. Casserole Luncheon, March 23 - Whether it is a casserole or a hot dish, enjoy a meal at church after worship. If you have never made a casserole before, we have recipes! This will be a great time! Please sign-up on the information booth so that we know we have enough for everyone! 

2. Nominees for Elders and Deacon nominees - We will be selecting elder and deacon leaders in May. Contact Sue Vredevoogd if you believe someone would serve well as a church leader.

3. Amie Anderson Grad Party, March 22, 2-4PM - It is now DR. Amie! She has invited the Celebration community to church to celebrate with her. Contact DR. Amie if you have other questions.

4. Sunday - The life of a Christian is one of action! It is much more than knowing God's assignment for your life. It is doing God's assignment for your life! See you Sunday as we continue our walk in the book of James. (James 1:19-27)

5. Prayers - Please pray for:
- Lilia DuRose is doing much better. She and her family thank everyone for your prayers, concern, calls, and occasional food.
- Please add Gene Wessel to your prayer list. He is a friend of Julie DeMarr. He has been diagnosed with lung cancer and is suffering from other health related issues.
- Help for friends who are in abusive relationships.
- Harold and Geneva West's niece, Jessica, who went into labor at only 26 weeks. 
- Duane Gray had a blood vessel break behind the left eye. He has some swelling and will see a specialist this week.
- Geneva West's mother who has been in and out of the hospital.
- The discord within the church.
- Stay focused on how to treat our brothers and sister at church, being Christ-like, compassionate, loving, forgiving and encouraging to one another.
- Our Celebration family members and let God's will work in our goal to opening Phase II. May we all be patient and wait for the Lord's blessings. Let us be thankful, Christ-like and imitate God.

--

Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.com/
www.facebook.com/celebrationmuskegon
(231) 571-4137

Celebration Midweek - February 19

1. Annual Wild Game Dinner, Saturday, February 22 - The Hors d'oeuvres will be at 5:30PM with the dinner starting at 6:00PM. Men: this may be the highlight of the year for you! See you there!

2. Sunday - It has been said that life is a gift. But how do you live this precious gift called life? How do you make plans in an uncertain and un-guaranteed future? Come Sunday an hear how to make the most of the short life that God has given to you! (James 4:13-17)

3. Building Project Update, February 23 - There will be a short meeting directly after the morning worship service where we will update the congregation with the plans for the building project. This will be a chance for you to see your role in the future of Celebration.

4. Prayers: Please add these recent additions to your prayer list:
- People at Celebration who are hungry for God to work in their lives.
- Tammy, Holly's friend, who has just finalized the divorce process.
- Back issues in the Ribbens family. Kadence will be undergoing an injection procedure on Tuesday to decrease the swelling in her spine. Holly has a disk pressing on the sciatic nerve causing constant pain. Also, Rob re-injured his back this past week with a fall in the driveway.
- Those looking for employment.
- Justin Udell who is in the hospital having emergency surgery.

- Basics For Babes ministry that provides layettes for new moms.

--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.com/
www.facebook.com/celebration.muskegon
(231) 571-4137

5 Things to Know This Week!

1. Annual Wild Game Dinner, Saturday, February 22 - Are there men in your life who need the love of Christ and other Godly men? Consider inviting them to this event! If you are interested in cooking for this event or helping prepare, Roger Doctor will provide the meat and recipe for your dish.

2. Think about it - C.S. Lewis writes in Mere Christianity, "If Christianity only means one more bit of good advice, then Christianity is of no importance. There has been no lack of good advice for the last 4000 years. A bit more makes no difference." Clearly there is more to Christ than just good moral advice.

3. Sunday - Listless, unmotivated, direction unknown? The Bible says "Where there is no vision, the people perish." (Prov. 29:18) So, what is Celebration's vision? What is the vision for your life? Join us with a friend as we look at God's idea of vision from Mark 4:35-41.

4. Small Groups - It is difficult to grow closer with others and with God at church for only one hour on Sunday. That is why smaller groups are so important. Contact Brenda Swanson or Pastor Matt to do life with God and others in a small group. We will be starting new groups in late February!

5. Prayers - There are a couple of prayer requests from our Sunday communication cards.
- Continued prayers for those who are dealing with back issues or other pains.
- Robin Busch, sister of Tim Bosma, continues her radiation treatments for esophageal cancer.
- Our Classis (gathering of area churches) meets on Thursday, February 6. Pray for wisdom, guidance, and unity.
- Sean VanderJagt, son of Cheryl Ferguson as he enters the Army. Please lift in prayer all of our soldiers serving.
- Peace, comfort, and understanding within our relationships and marriages.
- That God may continue to direct our efforts in the building program.

--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.com/
www.facebook.com/celebration.muskegon
(231) 571-4137

Celebration Midweek - January 15

I'm a 21st-er! Huh? Let me explain.  For me, winter is already over! After December 21, the daylight hours of each day grow longer until June 21, the longest day of the year! For someone who loves the sun, this is a wonderful thing! Even though the gloomy grip of winter is strong and will continue for a time, I anticipate the final end of a long winter and the soothing warmth of a West Michigan Summer! In the middle of a cold and dreary Michigan winter, be assured that the end of winter will certainly come! Let me know if you have the intended sermon application?

1. Upcoming Events:

- Baked Potato Bar, Sunday January 26 at Noon - After the worship service we will have lunch together! Yay, food! Sign up at the info booth to bring something to add to the meal.

- Oasis Family Sledding Party, February 1 from 2:00-4:00PM - Come with your children and enjoy a fun day of sledding, talking, and snacks. Contact Julie Bergman for more details.
- Annual Wild Game Dinner, Saturday, February 22 - Are there men in your life who need the love of Christ and other Godly men? Consider inviting them to this event! If you are interested in cooking for this event or helping prepare. Please see Roger Doctor.Baked Potato

2. Layette Ministry - Will not meet this Monday as advertised but will meet next month. Continue to pray for this ministry and help support them by bringing to church: soap, shampoo, diapers, and new or gently used clothes. Contact Kathy Meyer for more details.

3. Next Steps Class Starts February 2 - We will meet after church with food (YAY!) before we dig in to what Celebration Church is all about and what your "next steps" could be here. Contact Pastor Matt for more details.

4. Sunday - Some people say, "I love Jesus but I can't stand the church!" What is the purpose and role of the church? Why should I join one and how do I know if I am in the right church? (Matthew 16:13-20)

5. Small Groups - The focus with small groups at Celebration is "Growing Closer to God and Growing Closer to Others". We are starting new small groups at the end of January. If you are interested in doing life with others in a group, contact Brenda Swanson or Pastor Matt.

6. Prayers - Please pray for:
- Lily,the granddaughter of Sue Weston cousin of Nancy Bosma. Lily was diagnosed with Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
- Holly's friend Kristi Monette who had a very large cyst removed from her ovary. The biopsy results showed that she is cancer free!
- Join in prayer warriors around the country in praying for 1 minute each night at 9:00 PM Eastern Time for the safety of the United States and for a return to a Godly nation.
- For the many unspoken or unknown prayer requests of people that need God's help to overcome the obstacles in their life.


--
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.com/
www.facebook.com/celebration.muskegon
(231) 571-4137

Celebration Midweek - November 24

This is an extremely busy week so here are your 5 things to know for this week!

1. Thanksgiving Eve Service, Wednesday, November 27 at 7PM. Gather together to give thanks to God with our families, including our church family. Consider bringing a non-perishable food item to church that will be used in the food basket for our adopted family. Our evening services are always touching and worshipful.

2. Bobby Kenny - Our giant doorman/umbrella holder/bouncer/teddy bear/friend who we lovingly know as Bobby Kenny died yesterday, Monday. We will have a luncheon in honor of Bobby on Friday, November 29 at 1:30PM at Celebration Community Church. Please bring your stories and pictures of Bobby to the luncheon to share with others.

3. Sunday - We begin our Advent series that will highlight how the darkness of our world is shattered by the light of Christmas. This Sunday will be how out of the Darkness of Despair comes the Light of Hope! (Isaiah 9:1-7)

4. Adopt a Family - We ran out of gift tags in a record 10 minutes! We have another family that we will sponsor this year for Christmas. The gift tags will be on the tree for Sunday. Also, bring a non-perishable food item to church at our Thanksgiving Eve service that will be used in the food basket for our adopted family. Other questions, contact Cheryl Ferguson or the church office.

5. Prayers - We have a very lengthy prayer list this week. Please pray for:
- The many people who suffer from depression and heart ache during the holidays.
- The family of Bobby Kenney especially his son Shaun.
- Tammy Postma as sheis in the middle of a divorce she does not want.
- Heather DeBoer (daughter-in-law of Dick and Sue) that the doctors in Ann Arbor reach a diagnosis and are able to treat her.
- Have a prayer of praise that God provides in timely ways especially in ways we are not anticipating.
- People who are traveling, coming home for the holidays.
- Robin Busch, Tim Bosma's sister as she goes through treatment for esophageal cancer. Prayer of praise that she is feeling better after her first chemo treatment.
- Prayer of thankfulness from Sherry Essenberg for answered prayers for family and friends.
- Prayer of praise for Holly's friend Aimee. Her power came back on the night before her surgery. She had her surgery and it was very successful and she is recovering nicely in her own home.
- The families in Illinois in your prayers as they rebuild after the tornados.
- Reye's nieces, Delilah and Sevonney they are both hospitalized for health issues.


--

Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441
www.celebrationmuskegon.com/
www.facebook.com/celebration.muskegon
(231) 571-4137