Events, Shirts, and Prayers

Does it seem odd to anyone else that we only have one day where we focus on being thankful? We set up gatherings and parties so that we can celebrate our thankfulness. We even prepare to be thankful. Maybe we have lost the big picture. It is difficult to remain thankful during the daily stress of life. Being thankful does take effort to make it a habit and Jesus hopes that we will make this habit. 1 Corinthians 5:18 says "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." May you prepare for a life filled with Thanksgiving each and every day!

1. Events
- Tonight, Youth Ministries at Calvin Church, CANCELLED due to the weather.
- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.
- Monday, Pray Muskegon! Pray for our city on the 24th!
- Tuesday, Iron Man Group, 6:30PM at church.
- Wednesday, Thanksgiving Eve Service, Nov. 26 at 6:30PM.
- Dec. 1, Vision Team Meeting, 6:30PM at Ring's.
- Dec. 3, Book Club, 6:30PM at Verdoni's. We're reading "In the Garden of Beasts" by Erik Larson.

2. T-Shirt Sale - NOV 11- Dec 1 ONLY. Get a T-Shirt, Long Sleeve T, or Hooded sweatshirt for Christmas! The costs range from $16-$36. All proceeds go to the building fund. Go to:  www.bonfirefunds.com/celebration-church-building-fund. 
 As of today we have 9 shirts sold already!

3. Prayer - Take some time to pray for:
- Please pray for Jim Ring and his family with the passing of Jim's dad last week. The funeral will be held Saturday, November 22 at 10:30AM in Vicksburg, MI. The internment will be on Monday, November 24 at 1:00PM at Ever Rest Cemetery in Muskegon.
- For those dealing with unexpected money issues.
- Lakeside CRC in Ludington requests prayers as they celebrate the ordination of their Pastor Cynthia DeJong on Saturday, November 22.
- Those grieving from the loss of loved ones.
- Prayers for families that seem to be falling apart.
- Those looking for employment.
- Marilee Schut as she continues to heal from her foot surgery.
- Those dealing with loneliness and depression.
- Those feeling stressed out at work and in need of Gods hand of encouragement.
- Thanks for those who have difficulty in life but continue to say that God is good.
- Bill Essenberg as he is in the middle of his 2 months of cancer treatments.
- Celebration’s building project and closing the gap needed to begin.
- The unspoken prayers 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

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 - 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 to Know This Week

May today be a day that you are focused so finely on Jesus and what he wants to do in your life! May he give you his wisdom and comfort that only he can give! May God's peace wash over you like a nice warm shower after a long cold Muskegon winter day!

1. Change for Nicaragua - Please check out the water jug in the entryway to church for mission trip to Nicaragua. Jessica Ribbens and Osha Towers are participating! Ask them lots of questions about it!

2. Baked Potato Bar, this Sunday January 26 at Noon - After the worship service we will have lunch together! Yay, food! Bring the item you signed up to bring or just bring a dessert. Never can have too many of those!

3. Sunday Video - Here is a link to "Bill the Church Hopper" that we hoped to watch this past Sunday. Remember that Sunday is not about "maximizing your church experience!" It is about Jesus! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8i_hPD2cjs

4. Sunday - Let's talk about preaching! What goes into making a good sermon? What makes a good preacher? Why do we need a sermon anyway? Let's dig in this Sunday on "Preaching Vertical"! (2 Corinthians 4:1-6)

5. Prayers - Think of this before you pray for some recent needs today: "It's hard to maintain a rotten attitude while on your knees."

• Sheri Caughey (friend and co-worker of Sue DeBoer) is battling breast cancer. She is in the chemo phase and has had to be hospitalized as her labs have fallen to critical levels. Please pray for her strength, increased white count, her family (2 children/husband). 
• The DeColores weekend stars Thursday. Pray for the men who will attend such as Bill Essenberg and the staff like Tim Bosma who is the head cook.
• Randy VanDonkelaar's brother passed away. The family is friends of Nancy and Tim Bosma.
• Pam Williamson has a new job and the issues with her unemployment pay have been resolved. YAY!
• Ruth and Reyes' co-workers and others who going through troubling times. 
• Our national leaders and our troops. Pray that God protect them and grant them HIS discernment.
• Becka Commans (Kadnece Ribbens boyfriend's 14 year old sister) She has been suffering from a migraine for over two weeks. This morning she collapsed at home with a severe headache. Please pray for relief and answers to why this keeps happening. 
• Pray for the many families that are going through divorce.
• Pray for many conflicts in families and friendships that only Jesus can bring peace and reconciliation.

--
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 9

The chill may have put us back a few days but we are back at it now! It may even be 30's this weekend! Woot! Woot!
Here are a few things to keep you warm this week.

  1. Movie Night, Friday, January 10 - Tomorrow night at 7pm we will be watching the movie, “I Am” here at Celebration. Come out for fun, fellowship and popcorn! Here is the movie trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-Z-ZKoZN8Q

2. 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.

3. Sunday - Our souls long for it. Some people fear it but nothing can ever take the place of it. It can be all around you but you can still miss out on it. Invite someone Sunday as we talk about God's presence! (Exodus 33)

4. Annual Wild Game Dinner - Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 22 for our annual men’s event. 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.


5. Prayers - It is an awesome thing to lift up to God our needs and the requests of others. Here are some new prayer updates. Please pray for:
- Paula Espinoza's friend, Carla, whose latest scan results shows that the lesions they detected a couple of months ago are just scar tissue. So great news!
- Phil Pressotto (friend of the Schossau's) who continues to battle with cancer. He will need surgery on January 10 because the cancer is affecting a facial nerve.
- Those who require surgery soon.
- For the continued building progress at Celebration that we may be mindful of what God would like to do with our facilities!
- Jayson Kozal, a friend of the Eenigenburg's, , whose grandpa died this week.
- Roger Doctor (policeman) who had a stent put into one of his arteries this past week. He needs to lay low for a while.
- Duane Gray who officially started his own security business this past week!
- Those who are fighting the post holidays funk.
- Continue to pray for the leadership at Celebration.
- The snowplow driver who was over-busy during the latest round of snow.

--
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 - Happy New Year!

It is good to be back in Michigan! I hope that you were able to enjoy Christmas with family and friends. May this New Year for you be filled with all the blessings that only our great God can provide!

1. Sundays in January - Many churches in the last few decades have placed an increasing focus on people and missions to them. While that must be a reason why we exist, is it the primary reason? Where does our God and our relationship with him fit? We will use the book "Vertical Church" to help us to focus our efforts and start this year with a proper perspective as Celebration Community Church. 

2. January 10, Friday - At 7pm we will be watching the movie, “I Am” here at Celebration. "I AM" is a prismatic and probing exploration of our world, what's wrong with it, and what we can do to make it better. Come out for fun, fellowship and popcorn! Check out the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-Z-ZKoZN8Q

3. Next Steps Class - New to Celebration or looking to know more? In January we will begin a 3 week class to help you decide what your next steps at Celebration. We will meet after church, have lunch, and dig into important aspects of Celebration. Contact Sue DeBoer or Pastor Matt for more details.

4. Small groups - We will be starting new small groups in January. Groups are great places to grow deeper with God and with others. Contact Brenda Swanson or Pastor Matt for more info.

5. Prayers - Please pray for:
- Couples trying to keep Jesus at the very center of their relationship.
- Healing for so many who are hurting deeply inside.
- Rest from the hectic pace of the holidays.
- Pastor Matt's cousin, Karyl, has a tumor in her right lung that is causing her much trouble.
- Safety for the people in the armed forces who are in harms way.
- People who are missing loved ones and are dealing with loss during the holidays.
- Peace on earth and good will to people on whom his favor rests!


--
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 - Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas Celebration Community Church! We hope and pray that you will have a very blessed Christmas!


1. Christmas Eve Service Tonight, 8:00PM! - Plan on worshiping tonight at church on this last day of Advent! See you there!

2. Adopt A Family - A HUGE thanks to all who helped make the Adopt a Family project a wonderful success.  Both families were blown away by your love for them that flowed from your love for God!  There were many tears and thanks and prayers.  May God continue his blessings on them this year.

3. Prayers - Here are some prayer requests and thanks, some new and some older. Remember these people in your prayers this week:
- All who are grieving from a recent loss at this season.
- Nancy and Tim Bosma's neighbor Barb and husband Mike on the loss of her Dad.
- Robin Busch begins 5 weeks of radiation treatment. Praise God final big dose of chemo went easy.
- Tim Bosma because of his knee injury. For Nancy to have patience.
- Shirley DeMeyers who is the Aunt of one of our special friends from Moka. She has a brain tumor and they are running tests.
- John Wessel, for his peace and provision.
- Kadence Ribbens who has a bulged disk in her lower back that is pressing on the nerves. Please pray for relief of pain.
- We pray for a wonderful and peaceful Christmas with your families. That there may be peace on earth and goodwill toward all people. (Sometimes the ones we love the most are the hardest to get along with.)
- Steve DuRose's mom who is responding well to her first Chemo treatment.
- Ruth Hinojosa would like to express her gratitude for all of your prayers for the loss of her mother.
- Kim Rhodes' mother in law whose kidney is not working well.
- That loved ones may see that Jesus is the reason for Christmas!


--
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 - December 18

Today was awesome! There was so much pounding and commotion on the roof that I thought at any moment it was going to come down on top of me. That just means that there is much progress happening! Yea!

1. Events
- Deliver Gifts and Caroling, 6:00 PM, December 19 (THU) - We will be caroling in the neighborhood after we have pizza and salads. There will be hot cocoa after we are done singing. Dress in warm clothes and get ready for an awesome time!
- Christmas eve service, 8:00PM (TUE) - Our annual candlelight service will be one to share with others. Pick up an invite at the information booth to give to friends, co-workers, and family!


2. Advent - This week in our Advent series, "From Darkness to Light", we will look at the darkness of anxiety and the light of peace! Invite someone who needs to hear about real peace!  (Luke 2:13-16)

3. Cleaning Church - Every week we have wonderful people from MOKA come to clean church for free. However, they will not be able to clean our building the week of Christmas or New Years. We need a small group of people to clean church for 2 hours during these 2 weeks. Please contact Jim Ring or Doug Bergman from AMT if you are interested.

4. Prayers - Here are some additional prayer requests since Sunday, mostly from the communication cards. Please pray for:
- Kim Rhodes' Mother in Law whose kidneys aren't working well.
- Pam Willimason as she has surgery on Jan 16th to remove her tonsils.
- Ruth Hinojosa as she grieves the loss of her mother.
- The Hooker family, new acquaintances of the Ribbens' family, as Dan's mother just passed away this morning.
- Kadence Ribbens who has a bulging disk in her back.


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

7 Things to Remember This Week at Celebration

If you are rushed today, read through the noteworthy items but then mark this email as unread. Come back to it later when you are not rushed and pray over each item in the prayer request section. WHY? There is a great difference between becoming informed of the needs of God's people and actually lifting them up to God.  Invest some time with God and bring up the cares of others too. "Come near to God and he will come near to you." (James 4:8)

1. Update - We have moved forward in the building process to work with Post Associates as our architectural firm. An Architect Input Team is being formed to make sure that the architect has the necessary information to make plans for the building both now and into the future.


2. Roof, Roof! - It is a happy day because we are going to have our roof replaced! The renovation is scheduled to start on Monday, November 19! There will more efficient insulation installed, a slope to the roof, and there should not be a need to find more buckets when it rains! Yea!

3. Great Chili Feed! - Thanks to all who entered a crockpot into the contest this past Sunday. It is always enjoyable to see tables full of food at church! The 2013 Champions are: White Chili = Nikki Rowell, Red Chili = Duane Blohm. Nicely done!

4. Adopt a Family - We will once again Adopt a Family for Christmas. Gift tags will be on the Christmas tree November 24th and we are asking that all gifts be wrapped and brought to the church by December 15. We will do a non-perishable food drive for the family at the Thanksgiving service.

5. Thanksgiving Service - As we gather together to give thanks with our families let us not forget to also come together with our church family. Join us Wednesday evening, November 27th at 7pm to give thanks to our Lord. Our evening services are always touching and worshipful.

6. Christmas Cookies - What better way to celebrate the Christmas season than with cookies. Each Sunday in December we will give you the opportunity to bring 2 dozen of your favorite Christmas cookies to enjoy after the morning worship service. There will be a sign-up sheet on the information table beginning November 24th.

7. Prayers - Here are some of our prayer concerns since last week. Please pray for:
- Brenda Doctor who is struggling with body pain and depression.
- Charlene's friend Pam whose husband Mike passed away this past week due to complications from having his gallbladder removed.
- Frank VanHees whose procedure was successful! Yea!
- Patti Lacy as she continues to search for a job.
- Those suffering in the Philippines due to the recent typhoon.
- Those in the process of making critical life decisions.
- Those struggling with alcoholism and other vices in their lives.
- Families caught in the difficult process of divorce.
- Rex LeaTrea (Nancy Bosma) is free of heart blockages and is now free to continue heart therapy and hunting!


--
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 - October 31

I heard the best illustration last night of how we are like carved pumpkins!  The GEMS girls club leader Courtney Kingshott spoke how God specifically chooses us, takes out all of the messiness in our heart, shapes us how he wishes us to be, and then puts us on display for the world to see as his masterpiece.  Remember that you are more than a pumpkin; you are a masterpiece for God!

Here are 5 other things you should know!

1. More Time? - Adjust your clock Saturday night for the beginning of Daylight Savings Time. This doesn't get you more time but we "Fall back" one hour! On the other hand, don't adjust your clocks and get to church early so you can participate in the Adult Sunday School! Yea!

2. Events:
Sunday, November 10, Annual Chili Cook-Off - Do you like a little friendly competition? Sign-up for our annual Chili Cook-off. The chilies will be judged by our congregation with categories in white and red chili. The sign-up sheet is at the information booth!!

Christmas for LoveINC family - Stay tuned for more details for how you can be involved in making a good Christmas for someone else this year!
P.S. Congrats to Anika E-burg who won the Pumpkin Carving Contest. I am sure that the sight of one pumpkin eating another was the scariest thing ever! Thanks Amie for pulling this all together!

3. Sunday - Being happy is a dream for many people. They haven't been happy in years. Invite a friend to hear how our pursuit of happiness starts and ends with Jesus! (Psalm 37:1-6)

4. Thanks - I, Pastor Matt, would like to thank you, my Celebration Church family, for all of the love you have lavished on me since arriving in Michigan but especially during this past month. The gifts, kind words, and hugs during Pastor Appreciation Month remind me of how good God and his people have been to me. Thanks so much!

5. Prayers - Here are our prayer requests from Sunday:
- John Grabinski has an abscessed tooth.
- Lori Eaton, friend of Cheryl Ferguson, will undergo Chemo and radiation therapy for breast cancer.
- Tim Bosma's sister Robin Busch. They are starting Chemo and radiation to shrink the cancer in her esophagus before they do surgery to remove it.
- Jessie Ribbens as she recovers from oral surgery to have 4 impacted wisdom teeth removed.
- Prayer of praise for our Celebration family as we grow in Christ and with each other.
- Evan Bluhm, friend of Jessie Ribbens, he is suffering from a concussion.
- Pastor Matt has a pulled calf muscle. (It's tough getting old!)

- Pray for the people in family relationships that are strained or broken.
- Thank you from Ruth Hinojosa for all of your prayers for her mother. She is expected to live 6 months to a year. Please continue to pray for God's grace and blessings and her peace of mind on this journey.

--
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 - October 23

Hey Celebration!
I am pumped! Here's why: the nursery is getting too small to hold the Adult Education class each Sunday morning. The Iron Man Men's Group needs extra chairs to get everyone at the table. The Wednesday Night "Defending Your Faith" Group may need to get a bigger home than the Ribben's to meet. We will fill the tables in the Oasis room this Sunday at noon with the newly formed small group.
This is exciting because God is moving in the hearts of the people of Celebration. People are searching for community. People long to grow deeper in their faith with Jesus. People yearn to be part of something that matters in eternity.
This is not a testimony to us. It is our God who puts these longings in the hearts of his people. I am excited to see where God is leading the people of Celebration who are seeking after the things that only our great God can provide!

Whew! That was a long-winded! Here are more things you should know:
1. Events:
Sunday, October 27, Pumpkin Contest! - Bring your carved pumpkin to church Sunday for the contest! Stay for the contest judging and the caramel apples after the worship.
Sunday, November 10, Annual Chili Cook-Off - Do you like a little friendly competition? Sign-up for our annual Chili Cook-off. The chilies will be judged by our congregation with categories in white and red chili. The sign-up sheet is at the information booth!!

2. New Roof - We will be putting on a new roof in the next few weeks! Whew! We were running out of buckets! This initiates the start to the remodeling of phase 2. Yea God!

3. More Building Progress - Three architectural firms have decided to give Celebration a proposal on how they could help us design phase 2. These proposals are due Friday October 25. Then the committee must decide which firm would be the best fit to work on this project. Please be in prayer that the committee follows Gods leading on this selection process.

4. Sunday - Our next step in our Digging Deeper series deals with the very basic question of influence.  Who or what has the most influence in your life?  Your answer makes all the difference!   (Luke 18:17-31)

5. Prayers - Please pray for:
- Norm Peterman, father of Jamie, was admitted to Hackley Hospital recently with pneumonia and other issues.
- Steve DuRose's mom and is aunt who are both battling health issues. Steve's mom is in need of surgery.
- Continued prayer for Carla, friend of Paula Espinoza who was diagnosed with cancer. She is done with her treatments and they are awaiting test results.
- Prayer of praise. Brenda Swanson was in church Sunday and is recovering well from her surgery.
- Nancy and Tim Bosma's brother Rex and Sister Robin. Please keep them in prayer as they go through health issues.
- Praise God for his care of our loved ones!
- Jena as she is struggling in placement.


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

Embrace the Season - October 16

Wait a minute! Is Fall finally here? I was really enjoying the extended summer! However, if there is one thing that Minnesota weather taught me is that you must embrace each changing season. The alternative is that 6 months of the year you will be miserable! I don't think God meant us to bellyache and whine and waste our lives bemoaning the changes that come our way. Well, that was a long introduction to the important things to know for this week. Enjoy!

1. Event Planning! - The Fellowship Team meets this Sunday after the worship service upstairs in the loft. Keep them in prayers as they continue to plan for church-wide events.
October 27– Pumpkin Carving / Caramel Apple event
December - Adopting a family for Christmas.

2. November 10, Annual Chili Cook-Off - Do you like a little friendly competition? Sign-up for our annual Chili Cook-off. The chili will be judged by our congregation with categories in white and red chili. The sign-up sheet is at the information booth!!

3. Sunday - We at Celebration know that everyone has a past and many still hold on to the shame.  So much so that some people feel as if God could never love them because of the things they have done.  Invite a friend to church Sunday who needs to hear the answer to this question, "Does God Love Me?"

4. Sunday, October 27, 6:00PM, Reformation Day Worship Service - Everyone is invited to a community worship service at 1st CRC in Grand Haven featuring Dr. Neil Plantinga, President Emeritus of Calvin Theological Seminary and a well-known preacher and author. The Grand Haven Christian School Choir will sing, nursery is available, AND refreshments will be served following the service. For more information, go to www.firstchurchgrandhaven.com.   

5. Prayers Needed for:
- Mary Patton thanks everyone for their prayers during their recent doctor visit for Adele.
- Thelma's brother Herm has multiple ailments and is very week.
- Robin Busch, Tim Bosma's sister, who was diagnosed with stage 2 esophogeal cancer.
- Safety and good shooting for those participating in the various hunting expeditions this fall.
- Thanks that Cheryl Ferguson is feeling better.
- The unspoken and unpublicized requests on our hearts!

--
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 - September 25

Check out these important announcements for this week!

1. Carnival - Saturday, Sept. 28, 1-4PM.  This is one of our best events for people who don't know much about Celebration. Here is what you can do: 1) Invite a friend or neighbor! 2) Help set up at 12:30PM on Saturday. 3) Show up and have a great time!

2. Group Life - The luncheon was a wonderful event to highlight our groups at Celebration. As much as possible, we want to be more than a Sunday church. Doing life with a group helps! If you would still like to be in a group this fall, contact Brenda Swanson, Pastor Matt, or Marc Baird.

3. Facebook? - Churches are normally not good at communication. Actually, they are terrible at it! We have the bulletin on Sunday, the weekly email too. For more information on upcoming events and other fun things, go to our Facebook page and "like" it. http://www.facebook.com/celebration.muskegon

4. Sunday - We all long to be powerful or influential in our own way. Sunday we will continue our Choices series from the book of Proverbs that gives us God's wisdom to help us "Lead a Life of Influence". (Proverbs 11:30; 2 Timothy 3:10-15; Proverbs 24:11-12)


5. Prayers - Here's the prayer list from Sunday. Please pray for:
- Nancy Bosma's friend Julie. Her mom has suffered a stroke.
- Our Nation, especially our leaders.
- Those who are still searching for work.
- Those who are struggling with difficult family issues. 
- Natalie Sims for a new job, a new start and strength. 
- The groups that will be starting soon: Iron Man Men's Group, Apologetics Group, Book Club, and the traditional Small Groups.

-- 
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, Wednesday, September 18 (Hump Day)

While some dislike him I truly enjoy the camel who asks people what day it is. Hump Day! Whoot! Whoot! Maybe I am just easily entertained!  But I do know that it is another day God gave me life. That is what I excited about!  AND, since it is Wednesday and there are 4 important things to know for this week!

1. Doggie Pedal - September 21 (Saturday) at 4PM - We will start at Cafe USA (2020 Lakeshore Dr) for a beautiful bike trip to Heritage Landing and back. Then, we will enjoy some food at a Muskegon favorite: Max & Marley's! This is a perfect event for kids and adults! Join us for food even if you don't want to bike!

2.Small Group Kickoff Potluck - September 22 (Sunday) at Noon - We want to be more than just a "Sunday Church!" Purposeful groups will help! So, meet after Sunday Worship for a meal and conversation about your involvement in a group this fall. BRING: a salad or dessert to pass. We will have pasta for all and some hotdogs for the kids! Everyone is welcome!

3. Celebration's Carnival - September 28 from 1-4PM - This is our wonderful community event for the fall. Here is a link you can share to invite your friend!
http://secure.adpay.com/MLive_com/10940648/clicknbuy.aspx

4. Prayers - When a believing person prays great things happen! Thank you team for your commitment to prayer. Here are our requests for the week.
- For Ruth Hinojosa's mother. She is not doing well physically.
- For Marilee Schut as she undergoes testing for health issue. Pray that they find the cause of these issues.
- For John Warner and his family as he lost his mother this past week. John is Rob Ribbens' supervisor.
- For so many people who have suffered from the loss of someone they have loved in the last few months.
- For those searching for Christ and that we all seek after Him with our whole hearts.
- For the success of our small group kick-off next Sunday. So many people need a connection to positive Christ loving people in their lives.
- For Eric Fifolt who was in a workplace accident that busted a tooth and his lip.
- For Nancy Bosma who needs an MRI to determine if there is a fracture in the joint of her finger.


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

7 Things to Know this Week

1. Welcome Back - It was great to see everyone last Sunday! What a full house! This Sunday, September 15, is the "official" Welcome Back to Church Sunday. There may be even more guests this week who will worship with us. Remember to take 5 minutes and welcome those unfamiliar to you. A good starting line: "I'm not sure I know you. I am..."

2. Doggie Pedal - On September 21 (Saturday) at 4PM, Start at Cafe USA (2020 Lakeshore Dr) for a beautiful bike trip to Heritage Landing and back. Then, we will enjoy some food at a Muskegon favorite: Max & Marley's! This is a perfect event for kids and adults!

3. Small Group Kickoff Potluck - September 22 at Noon - We want to be more than just a "Sunday Church!" Purposeful groups will help! So, meet after Sunday Worship for a meal and conversation about your involvement in a group this fall. BRING: a salad or dessert to pass. We will have pasta for all and some hotdogs for the kids! Everyone is welcome!

4. Celebration's Carnival - September 28 from 1-4PM - This is our wonderful community event for the fall. We know you will be there but let Julie know so she can assign a great place for you!

5. Adult Education Class, Sundays at 9:00AM - Relevant? The Apostle Paul wrote his letters to Timothy, a young pastor in a port town much like Muskegon. Paul's encouragement and wisdom is exactly what we need to deal with the same issues in our world today!

6. Sunday - This one may be for all of us! How does one manage their mouth and keep from hurting others with the words they use? How does one instead build up others and bring healing to their lives? Invite a friend who needs this too! (Proverbs 16:23-24; Proverbs 18:6-7)

7. Prayers - Here are a few prayer concerns from the communication cards on Sunday. Please pray for:
- A peaceful resolution to the issues in Syria and our discernment as a nation to deal with this conflict and others around the world.
- Encouragement to Deb Straley's Grandson, Brett in battling the struggles of high school and daughter Pancha, in her battles with being overwhelmed and depressed.
- Please pray for our soldiers.
- Prayers are needed for those suffering from addiction and those trying to break free from the prison of their addictions.
- Bill Essenberg asks for prayer for Barb Essenberg, she is in the hospital.
- For those who are looking for a home church, many who have worshiped at Celebration recently. Pray that they are led to where God wants them to grow.
- Please pray for our family members who do not know Christ.


--
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 - August 21, 2013

For many of us we are looking forward to kids going back to school soon. For others, we are enjoying the last glimpses of summer before fall quickly comes. Either way, there are important items to know from Celebration for this week.

1. Calendar items:
- Aug. 26, 6:30PM - The Book Club will discuss "The Forgotten Garden" by Kate Morton at Handsome Henry's
- Sept. 21, 4:00PM - Doggie Peddle - Start at Cafe USA and bike to Heritage Landing and back. Then, enjoy some food at a Muskegon favorite: Max & Marley's!
- Sept. 22, Noon - Small Group Kickoff Potluck - Meet after Sunday Worship for a meal and conversation about your small group this fall. Everyone is welcome!
- Sept. 28, 1-4PM - Carnival - This is our great community event for the fall. Sign up to be a part of it!

2. Basics for Babes: Thanks again for getting supplies and for help sorting the items. We had so many items that we had to find another place to store them! We look forward to what God will do with this ministry!

3. Sunday: Are you a generous person? I am not just talking specifically about money either. Invite someone this Sunday to hear about how we want to develop a "Culture of Generosity". (2 Corinthians 9:6-15)

4. Prayers: Be in prayer for:
- Ruth Hinojosa's mother, Dora. She was admitted into the hospital with several health conditions. Ruth asks for prayers of hope, comfort and healing for her mother and for all of our Celebration Church families.
- Students going off to college. Prayers for protection and the guiding hand of Christ in their lives.
- All of the new families that visited that they may find a church to call "HOME" and that they may encounter Jesus face to face in their journey.
- Christians in Egypt.

5. Phone Number: Someone told me this week that they did not have my cell phone number. The fact that someone couldn't contact their pastor alarmed me. So, here is my cell phone number: 231-571-4137. Give me a call ! Do not be alarmed if your message goes to voicemail or I do not immediately get back to you. My battery may have died or I may be away from my phone. In either case, I will get back to you.


--
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

Here are 7 important items to know this week at Celebration:

1. Layette Ministry - Thanks so much for getting supplies for these newborn starter kits"! We are blown away by your support! How can you help? Visit your neighborhood yard sales and ask if they would donate gently used baby clothes for the Layette Ministry. Then see what God will do!

2. Carnival - Sign up in the entry way poster for helping out at the carnival on September 28. We are also in need of specific supplies! Contact Julie for more info.
3. Church Loan - In case you did not know, we now own our building! After 15 years of existence, Celebration now has a home base from which to launch into the community! Thanks to the Bigger Better Boat Team and other leaders for helping make this a reality!

4. College students - This Sunday we plan to "send off" our college students with God's and our blessing. Our college students are: Kadance Ribbens, Nicki Ribbens, Brandon Rowell, Adam Irish. Am I missing anyone?

5. Leaders - Sunday we hope to formally welcome our new leaders who were selected in June. They are: Doug Bergman and Sue DeBoer as Elders; Reyes Hinajosa to AMT; Marsha Dunning and Steve DuRose to the Finance Team; Cassie Workman to CSR. Continue to pray for our leaders as they serve this year.

6. Prayers - Please be in prayer for:
- The Glaser family. Amy’s father, Jack Southland has passed away. Son and daughter-in-law of Tim and Nancy Bosma.
- Paula Espinoza’s friend, Carla. She is now starting radiation and chemo. Pray for her comfort and healing.
- The Dobson family. We have prayed for them in the past as wife and mother Terri Dobson was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Please continue to pray for peace and comfort for her family as she has gone on to be with Jesus. Her husband Wil is the friend of Holly Ribbens. Terri and Wil’s children are 11 and 8.
- The DeJonge family as they continue to seek clarity for Rob’s job, home and education.
- The Celebration Church family. Pray for healing, strength, and discernment.
- Cheryl was able to visit Jena and she is improving. Her outlook seems better and she is working through her program again. Please continue to pray for Jena’s peace and the comfort that only Christ can provide.

7. Thankful - I get to rub shoulders with lots of pastors. Some easily talk about the "hard headed" people in their church or the many challenges with their church.   Mostly, I find it easy to talk about the great people of Celebration that drew me to Muskegon. Not to say that we do not have challenges but I have the mindset of the Apostle Paul to the Philippian Church. He was their pastor but also their partner in ministry. God is working at Celebration and I am so glad to be part of it with everyone! For that I thank God every time!

"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:3-6)

Celebration Midweek

Hopefully you are inside where it is cooler when you get this email! Whew! Summer is here! With that being obvious to all who are near Muskegon, here are 5 things that are important to know this week.

1. Communion Sunday - We will celebrate communion this Sunday! It was always the pastor's duty to encourage people to get things right with others before they tried to get things right with God. Let Mathew 5:23-24 help you prepare for this Sunday.

2. Pulpit Swap, Sunday, July 21 - You are welcome to arrive at 2 Timothy Missionary Baptist Church at NOON on Sunday as we join them in worship. We may be asked to be more actively involved during the service but that is OK. The address is: 1341 S Getty St. (Take Sherman east to Getty. Go north. Church is on the left.)

3. Church Campout, July 26-28 - The Church Campout will be at Crystal Lake Campground in Scottville. You can come up for the weekend or just for a day. Contact Sharon Bergman for more details.

4. Church Picnic - Plan on the church picnic on August 4 after the Sunday worship at Kruse Park, Shelter #4. Our worship service will be at the church this year and then we will head down to the park for a picnic and games.  Contact Connie Cerminaro for more details.

5. Prayers
- For Pat Dunning and her family. Pat's sister Barb died today.
- For prayer for all of the Celebration families.
- For healing for the Young family.
- For the Erickson family that is presently dealing with the very fresh damage and ugly reality of divorce.

--
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 over the 4th!

Good afternoon Celebration! It was a good time away for the Eenigenburgs and I can honestly say that I looked forward to seeing everyone again. I think that is the sign of a good vacation!

Here are some important notes for the week:

1. Care Teams - In order to better meet the needs of the people at Celebration, we have made the following groups that the elders will serve as leaders. The Care Teams are made by last names:
A-C = Susan DeBoer
D-K = Marc Baird
L-R = Doug Bergman
S-Z = Sue Vredevoogd
Contact your elder or Pastor Matt if you have any questions.

2. Pulpit Swap on July 14 & August 11 - We have made plans to worship with 2 Timothy Church on Getty Street. Pastor Matt will leave after our worship service on Sunday, July 14 to preach at 2 Timothy and Reverend Bass and his congregation will visit Celebration on August 11. Everyone is welcome to be part of the service on the 14th.

3. FAITH Unfolded Series - "Theology doesn't divide churches; people divide churches."  Over the next few weeks we are going to dig into some foundational Biblical truths that shape our understanding of God, our perspective of ourselves, and our interactions with the people around us.  CAUTION: You may be invited to actually use your brains and think at church the next few weeks!  

4. Layette Ministry - Next Tuesday, July 9th at 10 am we will put together layettes for new moms. We are in need of items which include: wipes, baby lotion and wash, powder and diapers. Pick up some of these items and bring them to church on Sunday so we can get them packed up on Tuesday!

5. Prayers:
- For Sue DeBoer's Granddaughter Audrey's white blood count is up dramatically!
- For Sue Vredevoogd's brother in law has 5 bypass surgery today.
- For Doug Bergman's brother had surgery and it went well but there is more surgeries coming for him.

- For Doug's son Rob who has just graduated with his MA in Social Work!
- For the title insurance to be resolved which is the last hurdle in the loan process. Pray that it goes smoothly!
- For Vicky Pratt is looking for peace and resolution to the troubles in her life.
- For Mike Straley continues to recover from surgery.
- For the many broken marriages and relationships all around us that need healing.
- For Jena as she is struggling right now in her placement.
- For the Meyer family as they are facing some challenges and changes in their household. 

- For Jenny Merritt's father as he battles cancer.
- For family members who are on our hearts: Kyle, Chelsea, Mark, and Billy.
- For Duane Shultz's sister-in-law Jodi she was just diagnosed with colon cancer.
- For our nation, our soldiers and our leaders as we celebrate July 4th.

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