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

4 Things to Know This Week

Looking at the weather I can confidently say that "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!" May the joy of Christmas grow in you as we celebrate the coming of Jesus during Advent! 

1. Events
- Congregational Meeting, December 15 - This Sunday we will vote on the budget for next year and get updates from various groups at Celebration. You can pick up a copy of the budget at the info booth.
- Deliver Gifts and Caroling, December 19 (THU) - We will be delivering gifts to our adopted Christmas family and then caroling in the neighborhood. We will have pizza and salads before we go and hot cocoa after we are done singing.
- Christmas eve service, 8:00PM (TUE) - Our annual candlelight service will be one to share with others.

2. Advent - This week in our Advent series, "From Darkness to Light", we will look at the darkness of fear and the light of joy! (Luke 2:6-12)

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 - Please add these people to your prayer list:
- Steve DuRose's mom as she battles with cancer.
- Makenna got her helmet off Monday and her CTscan was clean with no bleeding in the brain! Yea!
- Those walking through painful memories, losses, and depression during Christmas time.
- Ruth's mom in Texas is in ICU.

- Safe travel for those going out of town this weekend.
- Sue Vredevoogd as she recovers from breaking her wrist.


--
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 4

Pause! Take a breath! You didn't did you! It is difficult to do this when you are running through life. Don't run so fast and miss out on all of the blessings to be had in this journey with Jesus! So...take a breath...now here are 5 things to know for this week!

1. Events
- Congregational Meeting, December 15 - We will vote on the budget for next year and get updates from various groups at Celebration. You can pick up a copy of the budget at the info booth.
- Deliver Gifts and Caroling, December 19 (THU) - We will be delivering gifts to our adopted Christmas family and then caroling in the neighborhood. We will have pizza and salads before we go and hot cocoa after we are done singing.
- Christmas eve service, 8:00PM - Our annual candlelight service will be one to share with others. 

2. Advent - Last Sunday we kicked off our Advent sermon series "From Darkness to Light". This week we look at the oppressive darkness that is destroyed by the light of salvation! (Luke 2:1-5)

3. Basics for Babes - We are in need of diapers, wipes, baby soap, baby shampoo, baby powder, small and crib sized blankets, new or gently used clothes. 

4. Five Minute Rule - This is merely a reminder to continue what you already do. For the first 5 minutes after worship, there shall be no church business conducted! Instead, thou shalt only greet and connect with those not known to you or who are guests. Thus endeth the sermon!

5. Prayers - Please pray for:
- The friend of Sherry Essenberg who continues to wait for medical treatment.
- Steve DuRose's mom as she battles with cancer.
- Reyes would like to thank all of you for praying for his nieces. They have now both been released from the hospital. He describes their recovery as miraculous.
- Marc and Darla's friend Noah who had cognitive functioning issues last week.
- Bobby Kenney's family as they mourn.
- The leadership of Celebration as they seek to remain faithful to God's calling as servants of God's people.


--
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

Celebration Midweek - November 20

As I type this email I hear the guys working on the roof! What a wonderful sound to hear! This cannot come soon enough since the last heavy rainstorm helped my office to develop a leak! Yea East Muskegon Roofing!

1. Thanksgiving Eve Service: Wednesday, November 27 at 7PM - Gather together next week 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. Annual Congregational Meeting: Sunday, December 15 - This meeting after the morning worship service is where we approve the budget and hear of other noteworthy information regarding Celebration.

3. Adopt a Family - We hope to have the gift tags on the Christmas tree this Sunday for our family from LoveINC. Bring a non-perishable food item to church at our Thanksgiving Eve service.  They will be used in the food basket for our adopted family. More? Contact Cheryl Ferguson or church office.

4. Prayers - Please be in prayer for:
- Those in our congregation who are in need. This is a very hard time of year for some.
- The Architect Input Team that meets on Monday. May the input given lead to the advancement of God's work at Celebration!
- Direction in reaching out to our community.
- The Peterman family. Jamie's father Norm has gone to be with Jesus.
- Those who have lost their homes, and those families who lost loved ones in the tornadoes in Illinois.
- Those suffering in the Philippines.
- Chris Nicholes and his new baby Nevaeh. Pray for their guidance, discernment and care.
- Makenna Hentschel. She is still having issues with bleeding on the brain as her mom struggles with maintaining a place for them to live.
- People at Celebration in our congregation facing difficult decisions.



--
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 - Nov. 6

Hey Celebration! Happy Rainy Wednesday in the metropolis of Muskegon! Hopefully these bits of information will bring some sunshine into your life!

Sunday, November 10, Annual Chili Cook-Off - Come for the competition but stay to sample the great chilies for lunch! Bring a crock pot of chili even if you didn't sign up for the contest! These will be some of the best chilies you have ever tasted!

Sunday - Seriously speaking, who needs the church? What practical reasons would a person ever consider joining a church? Invite a friend Sunday who may be dealing with this topic. (Hebrews 10:19-25)

Prayers - We have a few prayer requests from Sunday. Please pray for:
- Paul Crum had surgery on his hand on Wednesday.
- Pastor Matt's neighbor Steve had his mother pass away on Tuesday.
- Pam Williamson as she continues to grieve over the loss of both of her parents during the past year and other stressors.
- Church construction as we move along with giving input to the architect.
- Nancy Bosma's friend Rosemary and her husband Tom who just lost Tom's mother.
- Michael and Rebecca. Michael is recovering from a heart aneurysm.
- The ladies attending the Decolores weekend in Grand Haven this coming weekend including Nancy Bosma.
- Steve DuRose's mother who was diagnosed with lymphoma.
- Those who are suffering with relationship heart aches and those going through 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 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

6 Things at Celebration for October 9

Recently, someone asked me if other churches send out a weekly communication like ours. I didn't know but I did know that we need it. Churches are usually terrible at keeping people informed and involved in the life of the church. Hopefully this helps you and blesses your day!

1. Taco Bar This Sunday! - Great things happen when people share a meal together! Stay after the worship service for tacos! Bring a dessert to share because you can never have too many desserts!

2. Book Club on Tuesday October 29 - Meet at the Hearthstone at 6:30pm to discuss "The Fixer Upper" by Mary Kay Andrews.

3. Sunday - Once in a while don't you have deeper questions that nobody is talking about? These are those gnawing questions about your faith that you don't feel you can ask anybody? Join us Sunday when we will start a new series "Digging Deeper" where we get at your questions and more.
4. Communion on October 20 - We celebrate the Lord's Supper around every 6 weeks and it is a highlight for us. We invite you to clear away any "baggage" that stands between you and God so that you may celebrate in honesty and genuine friendship with God and others. It may be helpful to use Psalm 139:23-24 in your prayers this week: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

5. Glenside Neighborhood Dumpster Day - This Saturday, October 12th is Dumpster Day at McGraft Park from 8:00 until Noon. If you have items to drop off or can help please contact Mr. Derbin at 231 206-3516 or derbinjsr@gmail.com

6. Prayers - We have some pressing concerns this week. Thank you for praying and loving others.
- For Max Nichols who lost his step-dad a short time ago.
- For Robin Busch, sister of Tim Bosma. She has had difficulty swallowing and now has cancer in her esophagus.
- For Patti Lacy to find a new job.
- For Karen Fischer who lost her best friend and husband, Dave this week.
- For Amie Anderson's aunt who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is having surgery on Wednesday.
- For Julie Anderson, friend of the Bosma's as her mom has passed away.
- For Brenda Swanson as she continues to heal from surgery.
- For Lilia DuRose as she recovers from oral surgery.
- For Tammy Postma, friend of the Ribbens, as she struggles in her marriage and prospective divorce.
- For Bobby Kenney as he is not feeling well.
- For our Nation!


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

Celebration Midweek - October 4

Oh this is late in the week! Hopefully people check their email and blogs on the weekend!
1. Hymns - What is your favorite old hymns? Rob is looking to have a service soon of old hymns with a twist. Send him a note.

2. Sunday Night Worship - Be sure to pick up your tickets to "A Night of Worship" with Vertical Church Band, Matt Maher, and Meredith Andrews! We sing some of their songs at Celebration. The concert is Sunday, November 17th at 7pm. Here is the link to get your tickets! www.verticalchurchband.com/tour. Tickets are free but a suggested donation is $15 in the offering.

3. Taco Bar - Sunday, October 13 - Stay after Sunday morning worship for lunch! It might be your best meal of the week!

4. Feedback? - The Vision Team will meet on Monday, October 7 at 6:30PM. Contact your elder if you have some items for them to discuss.

5. Sunday - Invite someone for worship on Sunday to hear about "Surviving Your Schedule".  It isn't too late to get off the runaway bus of busyness! (Proverbs 16:3, 9)

6. Prayers - Here are some requests since Sunday. Please pray for:
- Parents who are working through some stressful family issues.
- The team who is searching for an architect and construction company for Phase 2 building project.
- The Vision Team who meets on Monday night.
- Those who are recovering from recent surgeries.
- The groups that have just begun at Celebration.
- Tim Bosma's sister, Robin as she is having a procedure done to stretch her throat as she is having difficulty swallowing.
- Nancy Bosma's friend Julie. Her mother is suffering after having a stroke as is being cared for by hospice in Julie's home. 
- Prayer of praise! Ruth Hinojosa's mom is doing better.

-- Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441www.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 - September 4

Celebration!
It might be a few weeks before the rush of the school schedule levels off. Until then, here are 4 important things to know for this week!

1. Calendar items:
- 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 - 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!
- Sept. 28, 1-4PM - Carnival - This is our great community event for the fall. Sign up to be a part of it!

2. Sunday - Have you ever thought of wisdom as a choice? People choose to be either wise or foolish? Sunday we begin a series from Proverbs called "Choices". Invite a friend who needs to hear the "Wonder of Wisdom" (Proverbs 2:1-11)

3. Prayers since Sunday - Please pray for:

- Darla and Marc's good friend Scott is very sick and being tested for Liver Cirrhosis. 
- A new job. 
- The new marriage of Ryenn and Matt Dixon, friends of the Ribbens and the Bosmas.
- Paula Espinoza's brother Jim as he recovers from back surgery.
- Reyes' sister Joyce she is suffering from some medical problems. Prayer of praise for Reyes' niece and daughters who are recovering well after a car accident. 

4. Welcome Back! - Sunday, September 15, is Welcome Back to Church Sunday. I think I understand the purpose but I was puzzled by this event. Celebration does this every week! Celebration seems to be a safe haven for those who have been wayward and need to come back: to come back to Jesus and come back a community of his people, the church. So invite someone to come back this week and every week. Show them the grace, hope, and love of Jesus that is worth coming back for.

-- 
Pastor Matt Eenigenburg
Celebration Community Church
1260 W. Sherman Blvd.
Muskegon, MI 49441www.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)

6 Things You Should Know

Hello Celebration! Here are 6 things that you should know to finish out your week well!

1. Coffee: We have been taking steps to lessen the distractions during the morning worship. We have already asked people who need to leave or return to the service to do so between songs. We thank you for trying to make this work well. With that in mind, starting this Sunday we will close the coffee urns during worship time. You might want to bring your insulated mug from home to make sure you have enough! Thanks for your understanding.
2. Vacation: Pastor Matt will be on vacation next week to Iowa and Minnesota. Contact your elder if you have questions, concerns, or needs.

3. Church Picnic August 4: Our Church Picnic will be at Kruse Park, Shelter #4 after the worship service. Our worship service will be at the church this year and then we will head down to the park for a picnic and games.

4. Sunday: How confident are you in God's timing and direction in your life? How about in the lives of others? Invite a friend to hear about how we are "Transformed by the Spirit" so we can clearly see that God's love is simply irresistible!

5. Prayers: Please pray for:

• Jamie Peterman is recovering from foot surgery.
• Ruth Hinjosa's mom, Dora and Reyes Aunt Gloria are both in the hospital for medical conditions. Reye's Aunt is recovering from open heart surgery and is still in the hospital.
• The Erickson family is healing and in need of peace in this time of divorce and family turmoil.
• Our Children's ministries as we go through some changes.
• Dave and Karen Fisher as Dave is battling with brain cancer, while Karen is still healing from a shattered knee.
• Patty Oliva and her daughter Jessica as they adjust to moving.
• The Dunning family as they grieve the loss of Pat's sister Barb.

6. Oh Yea!: This past week I have seen love and concern showered upon those who were grieving and/or going through tough times.  People took time to sit and talk heart to heart about the pain in their lives.  People were strong for those who were weak.  They were listening ears and non-judgmental voices.  They were shoulders to cry on and sounding boards to hear the deep hurt of others.  This is what church is supposed to look like!  This is another reason why I love my church!

--
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

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

Questions For Leading Deeper

I did it or at least I think I did.

We are in the middle of a sermon series on Reformed Theology yet I believe that maybe half of the people know it. Maybe less. Maybe they have a healthy perspective of theology. Maybe it isn’t a big deal for them at the moment.

I started out with the hope to help the congregation build a deeper foundation in their understanding of God and their journey through life with Jesus. I thought that it would be important to talk about some of the basics. These are not the “non-negotiables” but rather the “disputable matters” that have good theologians on either side.

But then I began to question my purpose: Is my role only to get the people to think through things, to use their brains? Pastors aren't supposed to tell people what to think? Surely my job is to nudge them in a certain direction, right?

Peace came my way when I remembered a useful saying that one of my informal mentors says, “The main things are the plain things so keep the plain things the main things.” My hope is that we can always lead with a sense of humility in our theology knowing that we do not have it all figured out. Some day when we get to the end of our journey, I want to be able to celebrate that our search to know God deeper did not cause division nor did it distract us from loving others. I want to teach unity on the essentials and freedom where it is needed.

We are only 2 weeks into the 5 week series. I have great resources from which to draw from (Thanks Jim Osterhouse)! I have a great congregation that truly desires to be stretched yet does not want to be told what to think. The conversations have started and I have heard some deeper discussions. My hope remains that the roots grow and great things come from this.  I look forward to where this takes us together!