A community rooted in peace, joy, music, and the radical welcome of every person.
The Muskegon Church of the Brethren is a congregation with deep roots and a forward-looking heart. We are part of the Church of the Brethren denomination, a tradition born out of a commitment to peace, simplicity, and the way of Jesus.
We gather every Sunday at 1840 Catherine Ave in Muskegon — not just to attend a service, but to be family. After worship, we stay and connect. Good conversation, warm company, and yes — good food too. Just come.
"We are a happy group. We enjoy the freedom to be ourselves! Come and see."
You'll find us warm, genuine, and focused on the one thing that unites us all: the love of God and the love of neighbor. Whoever you are and wherever you've been, this is a place where you are welcomed exactly as you are.
"Established in faith, growing in love."
Being a Peace Church isn't just a label — it's a way of life that shapes everything we do.
Our sanctuary is a place where your faith — not your background or your opinions — defines you. No matter where you come from or what you believe, you are equally cherished and valued here.
We respect your beliefs, your values, and your way of life. We will advocate for your right to live as you choose. That's not a policy — it's a promise we make to every person who walks through our doors.
We belong to the broader Peace Church tradition — a network of congregations around the world that share a commitment to nonviolence, community, and the teachings of Jesus on loving even those we disagree with.
Real community is built at tables, not pulpits. After every Sunday service we stay together — sharing food, laughter, and life. These moments after worship are where friendships are made and where the church truly comes alive.
As a Church of the Brethren congregation, our faith is centered not on a creed but on a commitment to follow Christ — faithfully, simply, and with love for every neighbor.
We confess the Lordship of Jesus Christ and seek to be guided by the Holy Spirit in every aspect of life, thought, and mission. Our faith begins and ends with Him.
We hold the New Testament as our guidebook for living and affirm the need for lifelong, faithful study of the Scriptures as the foundation of true discipleship.
We are one of the Historic Peace Churches. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus, we believe in nonviolence, reconciliation, and loving all people — including those we disagree with.
We follow Christ's example of humble service — responding quickly to need, supporting our neighbors, and going into the world with a mission of compassion and hope.
We emphasize simple living, integrity of speech, and thoughtful stewardship of what God has given us — seeking to live as faithful disciples in the modern world.
"Walk the talk" is our call. What we do in the world is just as important as what we do in the church. Christ's self-giving love is the example we follow in all things.
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul."✝ Psalm 23:1–3 ✝
Pastor James Morse brings a heart for people, a love of the Word, and a fresh vision to lead the Muskegon Church of the Brethren into a new chapter of growth and community impact. He serves alongside his wife, Melanie — the two of them are a team in every sense, and in this ministry together.
"My greatest joy is helping people discover that they are fully known and deeply loved — by God and by this community," says Pastor James. "This church has always had something special, and I feel called to help it shine even brighter."
Pastor James is committed to verse-by-verse, spirit-filled preaching that connects timeless scripture to everyday life. His sermons are warm, humorous, and deeply practical — you can listen to them anytime in our growing online library.
Melanie is Pastor James's wife and his partner in every part of this ministry. Where he preaches, she prays; where he leads, she encourages. She is often the first person to notice someone new, the first to check in when a family is hurting, and the first to make a visitor feel like they already belong here.
Much of what she does never shows up in a bulletin — a note written, a meal shared, a quiet conversation after service, a prayer offered on the way home. It is the kind of care that holds a congregation together, and it has shaped the warmth you'll feel the moment you walk in.
If you visit on a Sunday, you'll almost certainly meet her. She would love to hear your story, and she means it when she says you're welcome here.
James and Melanie serve this congregation as a team. What God has called them to, He called them to together — and that shared calling is at the heart of how this church is cared for.
"We are in this together — one calling, two hearts, and one family of faith we love dearly."✝ Pastor James & Melanie Morse ✝
Music has always been central to who we are. When we come together, we come together singing — with joy, with sincerity, and with the full voice of a community that loves to praise.
Our weekly worship services blend beloved classic hymns with contemporary praise and worship music. Come expecting your spirit to be lifted.
No audition required. If you love to sing, you belong in our choir. We welcome voices at all skill levels — from trained singers to enthusiastic worshippers.
Do you play an instrument? We'd love to have you share your gift with the congregation. Talk to Pastor James about joining our worship team.
We want your first visit to feel easy, warm, and completely pressure-free.
Service begins at 11am. Come a few minutes early to meet people or slip in quietly — either is fine.
We sing, pray, and hear a message from Pastor James — all in about an hour.
After service we gather together — great food, great people, zero pressure. Don't leave early; this is where the real community happens!
No pressure, no obligation. Just come as you are and leave feeling loved and full — of food and of grace.
You don't need to have it all figured out. You don't need to dress up. You just need to show up. We'll take care of the rest.