6 Things to Know This Week

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Celebration Midweek - January 15

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

1. Upcoming Events:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Celebration Midweek - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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

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 - 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

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!

Celebration Midweek

Here are 5 things that you should know this week!

1. SERVE - You are invited each night of this week to Calvin CRC for SERVE which includes worship by Alex Ribbens and many others from the Ribbens clan, an update by students as to their work in Muskegon during the day, and a message by their speaker for the week. I think it will be worth the time!

2. Layette Ministry - Kathy Meyer wishes to thank all those who helped packing the Layettes (starter kits for new moms). It was great to see all of the clothes, diapers, and other baby care items. Keep them coming!

3. Pulpit Swap - Our visit to 2 Timothy Church after the morning worship was moved to Sunday, July 21st to better accommodates their schedule. Rev. Bass and his church will worship with us on Sunday, August 11. I am looking forward to a great time with them!

4. First CRC Final Celebration - Seeking to give thanks and praise to God’s faithfulness for 146 years of ministry in Muskegon, First CRC would like to invite all former members and friends to join us in a final celebration service on September 15 at 9:30am. Dinner and program will follow. Please RSVP for the dinner to 231-773-1752 or firstcrcmuskegon@frontier.com by September 1.

5. You Were Adopted! - Normally these words are not received well. Invite someone Sunday as we tackle the great news of being adopted by God! (Ephesians 1:3-6)

6. There are many things that happen during a pastor's day.  Some days are pleasant whiles others are filled with greater challenges.  This week has been full of conversations with great leaders, encouragement that was given and received, challenges that were met from a framework of love and care for others, and a re-focusing on the gospel as the main purpose for Celebration Community Church.  Just another reason as to why I love my church!

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

6 Things to Know This Week

Happy Mid Week Celebration!  Here are 6 important notes for the week.

1. Sunday --> BYOB!: The rise of passionate-less Christianity leads us to the story of Elijah on Mount Caramel from 1 Kings 18. It will be helpful to follow along in your own Bible so bring it on Sunday!

2. Care Elders: Each year we divide the members and regular attenders into 4 groups.  It is easier for the needs of the congregation to be met this way.  These are the present groups listed by LAST NAMES:

• A-C: Susan DeBoer
• D-K: Marc Baird
• L-R: Doug Bergman
• S-V: Sue Vredevoogd

3. Vacations: Both Holly and Pastor Matt will be on vacation this next week.  If you have questions or are in need of care, contact your Elder.  (See previous note!)

4. Men's Group: This Sunday, June 23 after church anyone is welcome to brainstorm/discuss/talk about restarting the men's group. We will meet in the front of the stage.

5. Future Events:

• July 25 – 27 – Church Campout (tentative)
• August 4 - Church picnic

6. Prayers:

• For Jerry Singleton, father of Brenda Doctor, and his family. He is going to have surgery on June 21st to remove Bladder Cancer.
• For Jan Zimmerman as she recovers from Colon Surgery. 
• For Sandy Rings friend, Val who just had a hip replaced but is in ICU with health complications.
• Prayers of thanks that Jim Workman is OK after being in a car accident that totaled his car.

--

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

Here are 6 important things for this week.

1. Yay! Sunday we will welcome new members!

2. Prayers:

• Pray for Ruth Hinojosa's friend Miguel who is going in for surgery on Tuesday.
• Continue to pray for Makenna. Pray that her feeding program is successful and she begins to eat on her own again. 
• Pray for Craig LeaTrea, brother of Nancy Bosma, as he continues to have health issues.
• Pray for Frank VanHees.
• Pray for Rob Ribbens. He goes to the Doc on Wednesday to get to the bottom of some health issues. 
• Prayers for Roger Doctor as he recovers from his back surgery on Tuesday.
• Pray for Pat Dunning who is recovering from toe surgery on Wednesday. 

3. Appreciation Sunday - On June 2 we hope to show our thanks to God for all of the ministry volunteers at Celebration. The list is long! Think of how you can thank them personally too!

4. Date - Put this date on your calendar: Carnival on September 28

5. Simply Give at Meijers ends on May 18th - Henry & Norton Meijers has chosen Love INC as their “Simply Give” partner. Pick up a "Simply Give" card at Meijers and give it to the cashier or scan the card. $10.00 will be added to your bill and Meijers will match your $10.00 and send Love INC the money. 2 for 1 matching gift!

6. Old School - Ever think that God only uses "other" people in his plans? "He would never use me!" Invite someone to hear about God's plan for you on Sunday as we look at the story of Deborah.

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

Yay! Celebration! Yay!

Wow, what a week so far! Here are 6 things that you should know.

1. Mother's Day: In case you forgot, it is Mothers Day on Sunday.

2. Love INC: The Council has formalized our partnership with Love INC. This means that we will work with them in meeting the basic needs of our church members and our community. Love INC has many great resources to assist with the financial, emotional, and physical needs. We view this as a good thing that will focus us on what God wants us to do to bring his Kingdom to come "on earth as it is in heaven."

3. Worry-wart. Not a pleasant name to be called. It is even worse if it is true. Sunday we will use the story of Martha in the Bible to address this condition. (Luke 10:38-42)

4. There are lots of prayers for this week.
Pray for Jamie Pereman whose Grandmother died on Sunday.
Pray for the family of Al Bouman (former member of Celebration) as Al’s mom has past away.
Pray for Jena DeWolfe as she progresses through her treatment program.
Pray for spiritual and physical healing in the family members of Ruth and Reyes Hinojosa.
Pray for Jake, friend of the Glaser family, who has a concussion.
Pray for all of the college kids finishing exams and returning home.
Prayer of praise for the healing of Josh Commans (Kadence Ribbens’ friend) and for Reese Holmes.
Pray for Pastor Matt's dad who is having surgery to remove a tumor today.
Pray for Pat Dunning for her surgery next week.
Prayer of thanks for Frank VanHee's son is back to work after colon surgery!

5. World Renew has an urgent need for plumbers, electricians, and HVAC specialists in Union Beach, New Jersey. Licensed preferred, but not required. They are also looking for volunteers for short-term help in New York and western Michigan. Contact Art at 800-848-5818 if you can help for a week or more.

6. 40 Days of Prayer and Fasting: Where have you seen God working lately? Do you have a story to share during your prayers or fasting? Let us know!


--
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

Hello Celebration!
This is your second email of the day but there are so many things great happening!

1. Prayers - Continue to seek God's presence during our 40 Days of Prayer and Fasting which kicks off today on the National Day of Prayer. Join us at GVSU tonight for a Prayer Rally at 7:00 PM if you are able.

2. Surgeries - Please be in prayer for upcoming surgeries: Pat Dunning has foot surgery on May 15; Roger Doctor has back surgery soon.

3. Love INC - We are formulating a formal partnership with Love INC. We hope that our efforts combined with them and other churches will further God's plan of peace and healing in Muskegon! Presently they have a few needs that we may be able to help with: As you do your spring cleaning please consider Love INC for your donations to their furniture ministry, baby pantry, and household pantry. They all are at extremely low levels. Contact Kathy Meyer for more info.

4. Sunday - Loneliness and depression are not strangers for some of us. God has a lot to say to all of us who have felt like this at some time in our lives. Invite a friend who needs to hear God speak to them in their dark time about this emotion. (1 Kings 19)
--
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

There are 8 things that you should know:

1. Home - The Zimmerman's have found a new home but will need furniture. They have a washer and dryer. They need a stove and fridge as well as living room furniture and beds. Contact Dave or Pastor Matt with more details.

2. Unity Fest - May 12 is the deadline for DISCOUNTED tickets. You may get tickets after this date but they will cost more. Contact Holly for more info.



3. Missions of Mercy - Sign up at Mission of Mercy website for the Saturday, June 8, afternoon time slot. Sign-up soon because the general helper positions are filling up quickly. This dental Mission of Mercy will be conducted June 6-9 in Saginaw Michigan, and will treat approximately 2000 patients in two days!

4. New Prayer Requests - Lacey's back has a nerve disorder and calcification in some of the vertebrae. Hopefully physical therapy will help. Prayers: There has been a death in Brenda Swanson's Mom's family. Prayers: Makenna was at DeVos this past week.

5. New Members - Meet after church in the Oasis room about the small group that is forming.


6. Oasis - We are proud of our Children's Ministries and the dedication of those that minister to the children. Please consider becoming an Oasis helper or a nursery worker.

7. Love INC - The Love INC of Muskegon Relational Ministries Coordinator position is vacant. This Full Time position is primarily responsible for mobilizing churches in life-changing ministries, primarily through the New Directions Ministry. Anyone interested in this position should submit a resume and cover letter to Matt Kaley, Executive Director at mattk@loveincofmuskegon.comor Love INC of Muskegon. 2735 E. Apple Ave. Muskegon, MI 49442. Resume’s will be accepted until April 23, 2013.

8. Sidewalk Astronomy, Friday, April 19, around 8:30PM in the parking lot. If you are at all curious about the wonderful universe that our great God formed, this is your event! Pray for an end to the rain and clear skies because we will postpone the event if it is cloudy.




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