5 Things to Know This Week

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Things to Know This Week

Where is the line between words filled with loving grace and loving correction? I think we err on both sides too often. We remain silent when the other person is on a bad trajectory in life. Or we blast them with both barrels on how they need to change their ways. The big picture when speaking our words is that they must be loving. If the person does not know that we love and care for them, re-think saying your words of correction. But if you love and care about the other person, please don't withhold loving words of correction that might help them? So, when in doubt: speak words of love!

1. Events
- Wednesday, Dec. 3, Book Club, 6:30PM at Verdoni's. We're reading "In the Garden of Beasts" by Erik Larson.
- No Youth Ministries tonight at Calvin church.
- Saturday, Food Truck at Calvin Church, Saturday, 8:00-10:00AM. Help distribute food to those who need it.
- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.
- Sunday, Worship Service, 10:30AM!
- Sunday, Oasis Team Meeting, after worship in the Oasis room.
- Dec. 14, Annual Congregational Meeting, Sunday after worship. Copies of the proposed budget are available on the Information Table. Contact your elder if you have any questions.

2. T-Shirt Sale - The website extended our sale for one week! So, get a T-Shirt, Long Sleeve T, or Hooded sweatshirt for Christmas! The costs range from $16-$36. All proceeds go to the building fund. Go to: www.bonfirefunds.com/celebration-church-building-fund. As of today we need to sell 17 more shirts!

3. Sunday - You have probably heard it said, "Timing is everything." Have you ever thought of that when it comes to Christmas? Join us Sunday as we consider this idea in our Advent series "The Miracle of Christmas."

4. Community Survey - Remember to ask your friends, neighbors, co-workers, boss, etc. your 3 questions before Sunday! 1) What are the biggest needs in our community? 2) How are those needs presently addressed? 3) How could a church be helpful in addressing these needs? We will collect them on Sunday!

5. Prayer - Please send your prayer requests so that we may bring them before our God. The following requests are ones we know.
- For Brenda and Steve Swanson and her family at the loss of her granddaughter Isabella last week.
- That we may be filled with grace when we meet with those whom we disagree.
- Prayers for families that seem to be falling apart.
- Marilee Schut as she continues to heal from her foot surgery.
- Bill Essenberg as he is in the middle of his 2 month cancer treatments.
- Those looking for employment.
- The unspoken prayers of our hearts that only God knows.
- Those dealing with loneliness and depression.
- Continue to pray for families who are separating or divorcing. Pray especially for the children who are always caught in the middle.
- Brian and Sue Vredevoogd ask for prayers for their friend Frank who has had his cancer come back.
- Harold West gave prayers of thanks for Janet Sykes, his resident who fell and was in a coma after a lot of blood loss. She returned home this past week.
- Nate Meyer, son of Bob and Kathy, has improved enough to be moved to Mary Free Bed after his accident.
- Pray for those who still grieve after the loss of loved ones. May they seek even more after our Comforter during the holidays.
- Pray for Congregational meeting scheduled for Dec. 14. The budget will be presented and updates given on several ministries.

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

6 Things To Know This Week

Yesterday was Veteran's Day. It is a day we honor all of our veterans of the armed forces. We thank those who have served and sacrificed. Yet, we also look forward to the day when we will no longer need the armed forces. We yearn for the day when peace covers the earth. God's peace! The peace that breaks down all barriers and rights every wrong. God's peace that exists everywhere that God reigns. And this peace will know no end. "Come Lord Jesus. Bring your permanent perfect peace that passes all understanding!"

1. Events 

- Tonight, Youth Ministries at Calvin Church, 6:30-8:00PM. NOTE: We are doing a non perishable food drive to benefit the food pantry at LOVE INC. We will collect food tonight and next Wednesday.
- Sunday, Adult Sunday School, 9:00AM in the Nursery.
- Monday, Council Meeting, Nov. 17 at 6:30PM at church.
- Wednesday, Thanksgiving Eve Service, Nov. 26 at 6:30PM.
- Wednesday, Book Club, December 3 at 6:30PM at Verdoni's. We're reading "In the Garden of Beasts" by Erik Larson.

2. T-Shirt Sale - NOV 11- Dec 2 ONLY. Get a T-Shirt, Long Sleeve T, or Hoodie for Christmas! The costs range from $16-$36. All proceeds go to the building fund. Go to: www.bonfirefunds.com/celebration-church-building-fund!

3. WMC Fall Play – Friday & Saturday, Nov.14/15, 7:30PM. Our very own Al Schut is directing the hilarious comedy “The Curious Savage”. Tickets are in the school office--$4 for students and $6 for adults. It is a funny play that will leave you with the feeling that kindness and affection have not been lost in a world that seems motivated at times only by greed and dishonesty.

4. Adoption Benefit - Sunday, Nov. 16, 4:30pm-8:00pm. This catered dinner & silent auction at the Century Club is to raise funds for Bethany Christian Services for Brandon & Charlene Beck's Domestic Infant Adoption. Anyone is welcome to attend, tickets may be purchased at: www.westmibenefits.org. Dinner: $30 per person, Dinner with drinks: $35.

5. Sign! - Did you notice the new Celebration Community Church sign along Sherman Blvd?  It lights up! It lights up too! Thanks to Eric Fifolt and all the others who helped design, create, and donate it to church! Yay!

6. Prayer - Take some time to pray for:
- Lakeside CRC in Ludington requests prayers as they celebrate the ordination of their Pastor Cynthia DeJong on Saturday, November 22.
- Pam WIlliamson's friend Dave after his wife Diana died on Oct. 5. May he find peace and comfort during the grieving process.
- Jim DuRose is also grieving from the loss of his wife Joyce.
- Prayers for families that seem to be falling apart.
- Natalie Sims in her search for work. Also, her grandson Colton is doing well and out of the hospital.
- Prayers of thanksgiving and praise at Baby Gabe Beck who came home last week from the hospital.
- Prayers for Harold who will preach next Sunday and Pastor Matt and the band who will lead the music. Pray for both as they prepare and listen for God's leading.
- Marilee Schut as she continues to heal from her foot surgery.
- Congratulations to Amie Anderson who is now the Dean of Students at Delta College!
- The victorious Candidates who were elected this past Tuesday. May they seek God for wisdom and Discernment in making bold leadership decisions in our country.
- Sue DeBoer’s granddaughter, Audrey, who has been doing quite well and her white blood counts are high!
- Those dealing with loneliness and depression.
- Jim Ring’s dad who is not doing well after his hip fracture last month.
- Those feeling stressed out at work and in need of Gods hand of encouragement.
- The families of the recent victims shot to death in Muskegon Heights as they deal with the loss of loved ones.
- Thanks for those who have difficulty in life but continue to say that God is good.
- Bill Essenberg as he started his 2 month cancer treatments.
- Celebration’s building project.
- Those looking for employment.
- For unexpected money issues.
- The unspoken prayers of our hearts that only God knows.


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

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 News

Here are 6 things you should know this week!

1. IT'S FINALLY OVER!:Whew, we made it! Just barely but we are done with the election season until it begins (too soon) for 2014. My hope and prayer is for the country in which we live and the friendships we have. This may be a disappointing election of epic proportions or the best election since the dawn of electoral contests.
The most important thing to remember that this is NOT OUR HOME! (Phil. 3:20)  We are aliens, immigrants, temporary workers, stewards, vagabonds, etc. But we are here for such a short time. Let's continue our main job of bringing God's Kingdom to earth as it is already in heaven. Maybe that thought will break the gridlock of the next 4 years?

2. SERVING TONIGHT: Eat some supper and meet at 6:30PM at 1) Hope's Outlet or 2) Seminole Shores for a night of serving! Bring the kids too!

3. CHILI!: Sunday is the Annual Chili Cook-off! If you would like to enjoy this meal after worship on Sunday and HAVEN'T signed up, contact Holly at church. I hear Roger has a special recipe this year!

4. SONGS OF THE HEART: Confession is only good for other people, right? Wouldn't it be great if we could be free of the dark and secretive stains on our souls? Sunday's message draws on the song of confession from Psalm 51 which we ALL know we need! See you there!

5. IMPORTANT DATES: November 18 - Adopt-a-Family begins. November 21 (Wed) - Celebration Thanksgiving Worship Service!

6. BIGGER BOAT NEEDED: There were 81 adults in the worship center last Sunday! And that doesn't count the children and other adults in the building either! You probably noticed that it was a bit "cozy". Stay tuned for more information from the "We Need A Bigger Boat" Team that will address that issue.



Celebration Community Church

1260 W. Sherman Blvd.

Muskegon, MI

http://www.celebrationmuskegon.com/

Genuine Love

Mornings are an adventure.  It makes sense that I take the kids to school since I need to be to church not long after the kids need to be at school.  So we rush around and get all of the lunches made and clothes on.  Most mornings child #3 is the slow one because she can be and it bothers the others.  We all have our control issues and this one is hers at the moment.  Other than that, mornings have fallen into a quiet routine of which we have navigated safely so far and without coming to blows.

This morning Maria asked me if I would help her roll up her blanket with her.  Preschool is so cool these days. I just had hang time with mom.  I could have been a rocket scientist if I had preschool!  But I digress.  Maria brings her fun dog blanket pillow for rest time at school.  She wanted it rolled up well so that it is easy to carry.

We fold the sides in together and begin to roll it but it doesn't roll as she wanted.  I notice that she couldn't get it so I jumped in and did my daddy thing to fix the problem.  I rolled it up and stuffed it just right so that it looked like a cool dog blanket pillow.  I must say, it did look well done!

Then, the coolest part of the morning took place.  Maria realizes that she now is in possession of a cool looking dog blanket-pillow.  Her face changes from one of anticipation to that of "this is the coolest thing ever!"  She lunges at my neck and gives me the biggest hug and kisses me on the cheek.  Then she says thank you, picks up the pillow, puts it in her backpack.

Such a genuine display of love is maybe the coolest thing ever!  This girl showed me her deep appreciation for my efforts and her love for me as her dad.  As a dad, what else would be better than that?

I get moments like that with God too.  Hopefully you know what I mean.  God unexpectedly puts a person in my path to bless me.  God arranges a complicated set of circumstances into a perfect alignment that I thought impossible.  God inexplicably sends his comforting peace when I am frazzled and am most definitely in need of it.

When I am confronted by God's greatness and goodness, my attitude suddenly changes from one of deep concern to a response of wonder and amazement of my heavenly dad.  He blows me away!  I sit back and smile and say, "God you are so good to me!  Thanks!"  And if I could physically hug his neck, I would for the longest time.  Someday!

Good Music!

I am sitting in my office listening to the praise band warm up and practice before the morning worship.  It is the calm before the storm.  They are so good and having such a good time practicing.  There is laughter and jokes and playfulness.  They are communicating with the sound booth to get the sound levels correct and adjust the monitors so that they can hear how they are playing.  The bass guy just shocked everyone when he kicked into a blues vocal riff that had everyone surprised because he rarely sings as the lead.  It is truly a joy to listen to them!

There is something special about good music.  It leads you to another place.  The music connects with your heart and your feelings pour out.  Sometimes we restrain our feelings but often times we are just moved and can only marvel at what is created.  I can't explain it any better than that.  Everyone is different when it comes to the music that connects with their heart: metal or emo or classical or even country. (I gasped when I typed that last catagory!)

Good music moves you and takes you somewhere else.  But I believe that music is just music.  It isn't necessarily Christian or secular.  It is just music.  I am in favor of music played well that connects with my heart and moves my emotions.  How much better when the music leads you into worship of our God!  Our great God loves great music like that.  Saying God or Jesus in the lyrics doesn't necessarily make it Christian.  God loves music that leads people into worship of him!  The band will be leading Christmas carols today in a style that they are rarely played.  They are going to lead us with high quality music with the goal of directing us to focus on our great God.  It is that focus that makes it great music!