Centering Music–Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation– (Johann Gottfried Walther)–Karen Schlabaugh
Welcome–Darlene Dick
*Hymn–Great Is Thy Faithfulness–VT 419
Children and Youth Conversation–Joanna Harader
*Hymn–Will You Let Me Be Your Servant–VT 778
Scripture Reading–Amos 5:21-24, Mark 2:1-12–Carol Peters
Sermon–Walking Home Together–Jeff Koller
*Hymn–Bless the Arms That Comfort–VT 527
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn–Heart with Loving Heart United–VT 813 Those with June birthdays are invited to come to the front during this hymn to receive a birthday blessing.
*Benediction
Postlude–Tuba Tune in D Major–(C.S. Lang)–Karen Schlabaugh * You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual—Francis Toews
Jeff Koller serves Mennonite Disaster Service as Regional Board Chair for MDS Region 3. Jeff is responsible for disaster response and recovery efforts in the fourteen-state region bounded on the east by the Mississippi River and on the west by the Rocky Mountains. He also serves on the MDS National Board of Directors. Jeff and his wife Becky live on a farm near Elyria KS and have two adult children and four grandchildren. Jeff is active in leadership roles in his home church, and in the wider church conference.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS June 29, 2025
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m. go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/d15Fo5nuJBE?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH June 29, 2025
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music–Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation– (Johann Gottfried Walther)–Karen Schlabaugh
Welcome–Darlene Dick
*Hymn–Great Is Thy Faithfulness–VT 419
Children and Youth Conversation–Joanna Harader
*Hymn–Will You Let Me Be Your Servant–VT 778
Scripture Reading–Amos 5:21-24, Mark 2:1-12–Carol Peters
Sermon–Walking Home Together–Jeff Koller
*Hymn–Bless the Arms That Comfort–VT 527
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn–Heart with Loving Heart United–VT 813 Those with June birthdays are invited to come to the front during this hymn to receive a birthday blessing.
*Benediction
Postlude–Tuba Tune in D Major–(C.S. Lang)–Karen Schlabaugh * You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual—Francis Toews
Jeff Koller serves Mennonite Disaster Service as Regional Board Chair for MDS Region 3. Jeff is responsible for disaster response and recovery efforts in the fourteen-state region bounded on the east by the Mississippi River and on the west by the Rocky Mountains. He also serves on the MDS National Board of Directors. Jeff and his wife Becky live on a farm near Elyria KS and have two adult children and four grandchildren. Jeff is active in leadership roles in his home church, and in the wider church conference.
The Week at BCMC: June 29-July 6, 2025 Sunday, June 29, 2025—Worship 9:30 a.m. with Jeff Koller, retired Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) Region 3 Operations Coordinator LiveStream Link: https://youtube.com/live/d15Fo5nuJBE?feature=share
Monday, June 30 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Newton Community Theater rehearsal in Fellowship Hall Friday, July 4—Independence Day—Church will be locked; office will be closed Saturday, July 5 2 p.m. Memorial Service for Myron Voran in the Sanctuary Sunday, July 6, 2025—Worship 9:30 a.m. with sermon by Joanna Harader
Hymns Sunday morning were requested by the following: · Great Is Thy Faithfulness “Because . . . “ —Di Suderman · Heart with Loving Heart United “I served on the Integration Committee from 1995-1999 representing the General Conference Mennonite Church. There were four GC, four MC members plus three staff members of three bodies (GCMC, MC, and Conference of Mennonites in Canada) which met three times a year to strategize integrating the three bodies. Staff members were Vern Preheim (GCMC), Jim Lapp (MC), Helmut Harder (CMC)–all three extraordinary singers. Every meeting ended with the committee standing and singing ‘Heart with Loving Heart United’ with gusto. While this committee was hard work and rewarding at other times, I remember feeling the Holy Spirit’s presence as we concluded each intense meeting and returned to our homes in Canada and the United States.” —Dorothy Nickel Friesen · Will You Let Me Be Your Servant “When John Murray became pastor at Hesston Mennonite years ago, at his installation service we sang ‘Will you let me be your servant’ responsively. I found it moving. Could we sing it responsively between the north and south sides of the audience?” — Carol Peters
Pastor Joanna Harader will be out of the office July 7-12 attending the Mennonite Church USA Convention (MennoCon) in Greensboro, NC.
We have several people who are willing to provide transportation to medical appointments for those who need it. If you need a ride to a medical appointment, please contact the church office or our congregational care pastor, Elizabeth Schmidt, to be connected to one of these wonderful volunteers!
“Anabaptist World” adult Sunday School elective. Join with others in the Chapel to read and discuss articles in the current edition of Anabaptist World. No subscription or preparation necessary. Everyone welcome!
Send some camp mail! Summer camping season is in full swing! As a congregation we are fortunate we will have youth attending camps. As our youth form their faith in these special places, we encourage you to send letters of encouragement while they are there. June 29-July 4 Faith Burch, Brett Gaeddert, and Jude Oswald @ Camp Mennoscah, PO Box 65, Murdock, KS 67111 July 27-August 1 Maisie Brubacher, Lucy Burch, Collin Gaeddert, Abram Wall, Mabel Wall @ Camp Mennoscah Thank you for encouraging our youth to explore their faith!
The church board is pleased to announce that we have formed a search committee! Megan Leary will serve as chair. Additional committee members are Karen Ediger, Mary Ellen Hodge, Mara Oswald, and Francis Toews. They will soon begin their thoughtful work alongside Western District Conference, our staff, and the board. Brad Kohlman will serve as a liaison between the committee and the board/congregation. Please keep the committee members in your prayers as their work begins.
Upcoming Memorial Services in the BCMC Sanctuary: · July 5, 2 p.m. Myron Voran Memorial · August 16, 11 a.m. Marion Deckert Memorial · August 30, 11 a.m. Keith Rhoades Memorial
BCMC will be putting together Mennonite Central Committee school kits in August. If you would like to donate money for this special project, place your donations in the designated fish bowls at the back of the sanctuary. Please make checks payable to “BCMC” with “school kits” in the memo line. Donations will be accepted through July and into August.
BCMC Offering for June 22: General $3,354; Plant Fund $500; Kitchen Fund $11; Merrill Raber Mem. $100.
Care Connections, sponsored by Deacon Commission, offers a variety of opportunities for extending care. Do you enjoy conversation? In-person visiting? Visiting by phone? Writing caring messages in cards, email or text? Preparing food or care packages? Delivering food or care packages? Individualized creative care possibilities? To learn more, express interest, or share ideas, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor for Congregational Care.
BCMC Library Announcements: BCMC SUMMER READERS: Be Part of the Picture—Between now and the end of August, take a digital photo of you and your book or of you reading with others. Send the photo as an attachment to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Become part of the BCMC photo collage of summer readers on display in the Gathering Place. NEED SOMETHING TO READ THIS SUMMER? Visit the BCMC library to check out a book from the display of books most checked out by BCMC readers. ALSO, ask to see our wish list. Perhaps you own and have already read a book on the list. We appreciate donations. And, one last request. If you have the book, King by Jonathan Eig, please leave a note on our desk or return it. Somehow, how computer did not properly check it out.
Mennonite Central Committee Peace Camp at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp, Sept. 21-27: How can we live out God’s call for justice and reconciliation through nonviolence in a world that is built on the myth of redemptive violence? If you are a young adult (age 18-30) concerned about the state of our world and energized to reimagine society built on God’s vision of love and justice for all, come join us for a week of experiential learning rooted in theological reflection, peacebuilding practices, and real-world application. Register by Aug. 31 at mcc.org/events/rocky-mountain-peace-camp.
Western District Conference Assembly will be held August 8-9 at Hesston Mennonite Church. Would you consider being a delegate for Bethel College Mennonite? Contact a Gifts Discernment Committee member or the church office to indicate your willingness to participate. (GDC members: Jeannette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, and Francis Toews) For the Western District Conference Assembly: Registration is now open at https://mennowdc.org/2025-wdc-annual-assembly-registration/ Please register soon. Join us at Hesston Mennonite Church, Hesston, KS August 8-9, 2025. For more information visit our Assembly webpage: https://mennowdc.org/2025-annual-assembly/
The Association of Community Mental Health Centers of Kansas and Prairie View Behavioral Health will co-host a community mental health town hall at 5:30 p.m. Mon., June 30, at 1901 E. 1st St., Newton. The event will bring together local and state mental health leaders, community partners and members of the public for an evening of conversation and connection. Attendees will learn about emerging trends in behavioral health care and how community mental health centers are evolving to meet the needs of Kansans. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. No registration is required.
Kidron Bethel Village will host its annual Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza Fri., July 4, at 3001 Ivy Dr., North Newton. The evening includes fun for the whole family with games, giveaways, food and fireworks. Arrival may begin at 8 p.m. Hot dogs, chips, drinks and ice cream bars will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefitting the Health Care Benevolent Fund. Fireworks will begin at sundown, approximately 9:45 p.m.
Colorado peaches are coming to Mennonite Central Committee: Palisade peaches from western Colorado are available for order and purchase until July 30. Two sizes are available: 9 lb. for $30 and 18 lb. for $42. Orders can be placed by emailing patsydirksen@mcc.org or by calling MCC, 316.283.2720. Payment in the form of cash or check is due by July 30. Make checks payable to Beth-El Mennonite Church with “peaches” in the memo line and mail to: MCC, PO Box 235, North Newton, KS 67117 or dropped off at the MCC at 121 East 30th, North Newton. Peaches will be ready for pick-up on Mon., Aug. 18 at the MCC warehouse. Beth-El Mennonite Church sells peaches as a fundraiser for bierocks ingredients that are sold at the Rocky Mountain Mennonite Relief Sale in October.
Sat., July 5: Kauffman Museum first-Saturday bird walk, 7 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets in North Newton. Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail.
Sat., July 19: The first-ever group to win the national talent competition “The Voice” is three Mennonite siblings from Pettisville, OH. Bekah, Joshua and Caleb Liechty, “Girl Named Tom”, will give a free concert at Bethel College, with opening act “The Flannelbacks”. Plan now to attend!
Western District Women in Mission’s annual Women’s & Girls Retreat will be Sat., Sept. 6 – Sun., Sept. 7 at Camp Mennoscah. Registration is open. For more information go to westerndistrictwomeninmission.org This year’s featured speakers are Pastor Katherine Goerzen and Pastor Laura Goerzen. Comforter tying will start Sat. at 10 a.m. Afternoon seminars will include dried flower bookmarks, yoga, guided nature walk, book reviews with Bethany Martin from Faith & Life Bookstore and free time. Come for fun and fellowship!
It’s a Party! Announcing Summer Story Days 2025. Join Western District Conference Resource Library staff for stories and come & go activities for ages 3-8 and their caregivers. New this year: Virtual participation with mailed craft kits available–sign up for virtual participation at forms.gle/8DnWnLs64VkZJoeB6. No sign up for in-person activities in North Newton. Join us July 12 at 11 a.m. for a special virtual author visit from Aimee Reid and August 9 as a part of WDC Annual Assembly. For more information contact Jennie at crlib@mennowdc.org.
The Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, (KIPCOR) affiliated with Bethel College, is offering a 2-day training on “Managing Differences Within Faith Communities” on Friday and Saturday, July 25-26, 2025, at KIPCOR’s training facility in North Newton. This course is designed for congregational leaders, pastors, and anyone who would like to explore ways to navigate differences as a faith community in a healthier way. This training is led by Robert Yutzy, KIPCOR Senior Associate for Congregational Ministries, and Keren Kandel, KIPCOR Executive Director. This course will help to better understand the dynamics when there is disagreement and gives opportunities to engage in practical tools that can transform conflict and difference into spiritual and community renewal. Please see the flier on the church bulletin board for more information and the cost of registration.
Mennonite Central Committee is looking for anyone traveling between North Newton and Dallas or all the way to South Texas between now and mid-August. We have kits in Kansas that need to get to Texas, and it would be great to utilize vehicles that are already going that direction to save resources. If you can help MCC, please contact Brocia Mueller at brociamueller@mcc.org or call Brocia at 316.836.5054.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here
Dear Intersections readers: Greetings! The summer 2025 issue of Intersections, organized around the theme of “Churches Reaching Out in Mission,” is now on the Mennonite Central Committee website. See here. Authors reflect on how churches in Canada, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Kenya, and the United States understand their relief, development, and peacebuilding efforts as part of the church reaching out beyond itself to join the mission of God’s reconciling Spirit in the world. As always, do not hesitate to reach out to me with any thoughts or questions you might have about Intersections! Warm regards, Alain Epp Weaver
From Mennonite Church USA Visit the MC USA Follow Jesus ’25 Congregation Kit for ways to help share convention details with your church! The kit includes easily shareable logos, social media posts and other materials to make keeping your congregation up to date a breeze. Learn more here: convention.mennoniteusa.org/follow-jesus-25-press-kit/
Watch the second of two MC USA Women in Leadership webinars, discussing the upcoming Women’s Summit, July 8, a transformative one-day event immediately preceding the Follow Jesus ‘25 national convention in Greensboro, North Carolina. View it here: mennoniteusa.org/webinar/women25
Seminars during Follow Jesus 25 exist to transform us as youth, adults and communities of MC USA into Christ-shaped vessels to serve both church and world. The seminars are typically 60 minutes in length and cover a variety of categories. The list of available seminars during Follow Jesus 25 can be found here: mennoniteusa.org/fj25-seminars
Menno Snapshots
For spiritual director Ruth Johnston, who is ordained for ministry in MC USA, contemplation is easier than action. In this blog post, she shares how her friend and spiritual director helped her put her contemplative writing into action. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/weakness-into-strength
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the Church of Christ in Thailand District 20 Hmong, which is an organization that facilitates ministry among Hmong communities around the world. Pray for the leaders and lay people as they witness to Jesus’ love, wherever they find themselves. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC congregations, members and friends whose generous financial support makes it possible to carry out WDC’s mission of empowering congregations to Witness and invite others to faith in Jesus Christ, Dwell in just and loving relationships, and Connect to God’s mission in the world.
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, or age.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS June 22, 2025
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m. go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/yJRmvZevqto?feature=share
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH June 22, 2025 Second Sunday after Pentecost
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music–Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (Manz)–Karen Unruh, organ Welcome–Jim Robb
*Hymn–We Long to Know Her–VT 44
Children and Youth Conversation–Kathy Stucky
Worship Music–Collin and Brett Gaeddert
Scripture Reading–Psalm 42:1-5; I Kings 19:11-13–Crystal Gaeddert
*Hymn–Lord, You Sometimes Speak–VT 537
Sermon–What are you doing here?–Joanna Harader
*Hymn–Here I Am, Lord–VT 545
Prayers of God’s People–Jim Robb
*Hymn–Move in Our Midst–VT 827
*Benediction
Postlude–Sent Forth by God’s Blessing (Weber)–Karen Unruh
* You are invited to stand VT—Voices Together Audio visual—Ben Lichti
Here I Am, Lord “The words and music of this beautiful hymn are fun and easy to sing and tell the story of a loving God who asks for our help in restoring the human condition. The words are based on Isaiah 6:8 and Samuel 3:4. This hymn was written by Daniel Schutte, a Catholic Jesuit priest who introduced guitar/folk music that revolutionized the sound of Catholic worship music. —Vern Goering
BCMC Offering for June 1: General $1,785; Plant Fund $50. For June 8: General $26,056; Caring Fund $450; Kitchen Fund $15.96; Solar Fund $1,550. For June 15: General $19,987; Kitchen Fund $10; Women’s Fellowship $30; Solar Fund $500; Helen Bargen Mem. $50.
2-4 p.m. Pride Popsicles in the Park, Athletic Park June is Pride Month! You are invited to Pride Popsicles in the Park on Sunday, June 22, from 2-4 p.m. at Athletic Park. The BCMC Witness Commission is helping to provide popsicles for this event.
2-6 p.m. Newton Community Theater rehearsal in Fellowship Hall
Monday, June 23 through Friday, June 27 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Newton Community Theater rehearsals in Fellowship Hall Monday, June 23 11 a.m. Memorial service in the BCMC Chapel for Erwin Loeffler Tuesday, June 24 9 a.m. Abuse Prevention and Response Committee meeting in Room 14 Sunday, June 29, 2025—Worship 9:30 a.m. with Jeff Koller, retired Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) Region 3 Operations Coordinator
Send some camp mail! Summer camping season is in full swing! As a congregation we are fortunate we will have youth attending camps. As our youth form their faith in these special places, we encourage you to send letters of encouragement while they are there. June 29-July 4 Brett Gaeddert and Jude Oswald @ Camp Mennoscah, PO Box 65, Murdock, KS 67111 July 27-August 1 Abram Wall, Mabel Wall, Maisie Brubacher, and Collin Gaeddert @ Camp Mennoscah Thank you for encouraging our youth to explore their faith!
Sympathy Notices:
We offer sympathy to the family of Marion Deckert. Please pray for Marion’s sister, Alison (Deckert), and husband Harvey Hiebert, son Alan and wife Ulla of Germany, daughter Alice and husband Michael McGrath of Pennsylvania, and their families. Marion died June 6 at Kidron Bethel Village. The memorial service will be Aug. 16, 11 a.m. at BCMC.
We extend sympathy to the family of Keith Rhoades, son Marc and family of Florida, son Eric and family of Maryland, and daughter Stacey of Utah, and the extended family. Keith died in Maryland on Sat., June 7. The memorial service is planned for Aug. 30, 11 a.m. at BCMC.
Please remember in your prayers the family of Keith Woolery as they continue to grieve his death. Keith died June 8 in Texas. Remember his wife Donna of Denton, Texas; son Jesse and family of Ponder, Texas; and daughter Danielle of Sanger, Texas, and extended family. The funeral service was at BCMC on Saturday, June 14.
We offer sympathy to the family of Myron Voran. Myron died June 12 at Presbyterian Manor, Newton. Please remember in prayer Myron’s wife Mildred, his sister Florine Eitzen, and brother-in-law Marles Preheim. Also Myron and Mildred’s children Barb Voran, Jeanette and George Leary, Brent and Cora Voran; grandchildren Megan Leary, Kevin and Naomi Leary, Rachel and Graham Unruh, Paul and Sarah Voran; and great grand-children Owen and Ivy Unruh, and Maggie and Silas Leary. The memorial service for Myron will be Saturday, July 5, 2 p.m. at BCMC.
We extend sympathy to the family of Dorothy Unruh: daughter LaDonna (Eugene) Voth of Newton, KS, and their children Aneka and Josef; son Rodney (Sherry) Unruh and family; and daughter Terry Arthur and family. Dorothy passed away on June 19, 2025, at the age of 103. The family will have a private inurnment service at a later date.
Care Connections, sponsored by Deacon Commission, offers a variety of opportunities for extending care. Do you enjoy conversation? In-person visiting? Visiting by phone? Writing caring messages in cards, email or text? Preparing food or care packages? Delivering food or care packages? Individualized creative care possibilities? To learn more, express interest, or share ideas, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor for Congregational Care.
BCMC Prayer Network: The Prayer Network is an email-based prayer network comprised of Deacon Commission members and BCMC congregants. Participants make a one-year commitment to this prayer ministry which is coordinated by Pastors and the Office and Facilities Manager. Pastors respond to prayer requests and determine when and how these requests are distributed. Specific prayer requests are shared only with the permission of the person(s) involved. If you would like to join the BCMC prayer network, please email your interest to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Thanks to all who serve BCMC in the Prayer Network.
BCMC SUMMER READERS: Be Part of the Picture—Between now and the end of August, take a digital photo of you and your book or of you reading with others. Send the photo as an attachment to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Become part of the BCMC photo collage of summer readers on display in the Gathering Place.
NEED SOMETHING TO READ THIS SUMMER? Visit the BCMC library to check out a book from the display of books most checked out by BCMC readers. ALSO, ask to see our wish list. Perhaps you own and have already read a book on the list. We appreciate donations. And, one last request. If you have the book, King by Jonathan Eig, please leave a note on our desk or return it. Somehow, how computer did not properly check it out.
Western District Conference Assembly will be held August 8-9 at Hesston Mennonite Church. Would you consider being a delegate for Bethel College Mennonite? Contact a Gifts Discernment Committee member or the church office to indicate your willingness to participate. (GDC members: Jeannette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, and Francis Toews)
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements
It’s a Party! Announcing Summer Story Days 2025. Join Western District Conference Resource Library staff for stories and come & go activities for ages 3-8 and their caregivers. New this year: Virtual participation with mailed craft kits available–sign up for virtual participation at forms.gle/8DnWnLs64VkZJoeB6. No sign up for in-person activities in North Newton. Join us July 12 at 11 a.m. for a special virtual author visit from Aimee Reid and August 9 as a part of WDC Annual Assembly. For more information contact Jennie at crlib@mennowdc.org.
Western District Women in Mission’s annual Women’s & Girls Retreat will be Sat., Sept. 6 – Sun., Sept. 7 at Camp Mennoscah. Registration is open. For more information go to westerndistrictwomeninmission.org This year’s featured speakers are Pastor Katherine Goerzen and Pastor Laura Goerzen. Comforter tying will start Sat. at 10 a.m. Afternoon seminars will include dried flower bookmarks, yoga, guided nature walk, book reviews with Bethany Martin from Faith & Life Bookstore and free time. Come for fun and fellowship!
The Association of Community Mental Health Centers of Kansas and Prairie View Behavioral Health will co-host a community mental health town hall at 5:30 p.m. Mon., June 30, at 1901 E. 1st St., Newton. The event will bring together local and state mental health leaders, community partners and members of the public for an evening of conversation and connection. Attendees will learn about emerging trends in behavioral health care and how community mental health centers are evolving to meet the needs of Kansans. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. No registration is required.
Kidron Bethel Village will host its annual Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza Fri., July 4, at 3001 Ivy Dr., North Newton. The evening includes fun for the whole family with games, giveaways, food and fireworks. Arrival may begin at 8 p.m. Hot dogs, chips, drinks and ice cream bars will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefitting the Health Care Benevolent Fund. Fireworks will begin at sundown, approximately 9:45 p.m.
The Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, (KIPCOR) affiliated with Bethel College, is offering a 2-day training on “Managing Differences Within Faith Communities” on Friday and Saturday, July 25-26, 2025, at KIPCOR’s training facility in North Newton. This course is designed for congregational leaders, pastors, and anyone who would like to explore ways to navigate differences as a faith community in a healthier way. This training is led by Robert Yutzy, KIPCOR Senior Associate for Congregational Ministries, and Keren Kandel, KIPCOR Executive Director. This course will help to better understand the dynamics when there is disagreement and gives opportunities to engage in practical tools that can transform conflict and difference into spiritual and community renewal. Please see the flier on the church bulletin board for more information and the cost of registration.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here For Mennonite Women USA “Women’s Voices” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “Church Resources” (Service opporunities) press here For Kansas Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR) Newsletter press here For Mennonite World Conference information press here For Paris Mennonite Center Update press here For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the Level” Press here
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Camp Mennoscah needs a nurse for July 27-Aug. 1 (Senior High camp) and a music leader for June 22-26 and July 20-24. Nurses can receive a stipend or parent discount for a camper of up to full camp fees. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org with questions or to claim a week. Have other skills? Camp has other needs, too–maintenance, custodial, musician/guitarist.
Summer Camp registration is still open! We’re taking “Another Way” and finding transformation in Jesus’ way of living. Summer camps are open for those going into grades 3-12. Register here! (https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/) Come build your house on the rock and play in the sand!
Camp T-shirt comforter being raffled off (and another one sold)! Throughout the summer you can purchase raffle tickets at https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/camp-mennoscah-t-shirt-comforter-raffle (1 ticket for $5, 5 tickets for $20). Pictures of the quilt (front and back) are attached. The raffle ends after summer youth camps (August 3). If you want to be guaranteed you get a Camp Mennoscah tee shirt comforter, raffle or not, one is also being sold for the flat price of $500 (the amount that the past two comforters sold have raised in silent auctions). Contact us at office@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290.
There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Please communicate with others in your group, if there may be high demand for RV hookups. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups.
From Mennonite Central Committee U.S. National Peace and Justice Ministries
Dear Bethel College Mennonite, They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. (Micah 4:3)How can we live out God’s call for justice and reconciliation through nonviolence in a world that is built on the myth of redemptive violence? If you are a young adult (18-30) concerned about the state of our world and energized to reimagine society built on God’s vision of love and justice for all, come join us for a week of experiential learning rooted in theological reflection, peacebuilding practices, and real-world application. This MCC Peace Camp will work on building a deeper understanding of trauma healing, restorative justice, identity and power, among other topics that impact our communities. We will explore these ideas from a Jesus-centered lens and consider how they can be applied in our world to build God’s Kingdom here on Earth. All learning will be collective and participatory, building off the experiences and insight that each participant brings to the camp.
When: September 21-27, 2025 Where: Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp, Divide, Colorado Who: Young adults ages 18-30 How: Register here by August 31 Registration Fee: $250.00 guarantees your spot at the campView and download the flyer.MCC Peace Camps are one way to encourage and support the next generation of the Church to live out an active faith as peacemakers. Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to apply. MCC covers all costs of travel, lodging and meals beyond the $250 registration fee. We encourage churches, schools, families and friends to support participants in the registration fee where possible. This is an opportunity not to be missed, so tap someone on the shoulder or come join yourself!We hope you will join us! Warmest regards, Nathan Toews Peace Education Coordinator MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries
Mennonite Church USA Announcements The Big Dove is here! MC USA has launched an online storefront featuring hats, sweatshirts, mugs and more. Check out the selection of merch that displays Follow Jesus, The MC USA dove and a retro line of gear from past conventions. Every sale helps support MC USA ministries! bonfire.com/store/mc-usa-gear/
Stay up to date on all things Follow Jesus ’25, MC USA’s national convention, by subscribing to the weekly convention newsletter! Subscribe here: mennoniteusa.org/fj25-newsletter
The Church Planting Grant nurtures MC USA-affiliated missional peace churches. New church plants — churches that are less than three years old — can apply for the $5,000 grant each year from May 1 to July 31. Learn more and apply here: mennoniteusa.org/thrive-grant
Menno Snapshots
As part of the ongoing Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy series, Linda Gehman Peachey, a member of Blossom Hill Mennonite Church, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, looks at how women, as well as other marginalized peoples and the broader society, are oppressed by the existence of patriarchy. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/painful-legacy
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the Rev. Bercie Mundedi, director of the Kalonda Bible Institute, who is beginning a two year study program that will allow her to complete her university degree. Pray for Rev. Mundedi’s health and family during this time. Pray also for the Bible Institute as it continues to train Mennonite pastors in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for delegates, youth groups and other members of WDC who are preparing to attend Mennonite Church USA convention next month!
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, or age.
There will be no worship service in the BCMC Building this Sunday, June 1
Vacation Bible School worship this coming Sunday is in Athletic Park at 10 am. There will be no bulletin this week.
From the VBS coordinators:
JOINT WORSHIP SERVICE: Everyone and anyone is invited! Sunday in the park will replace the regular worship services for all participating congregations. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on for the worship time. VBS children and volunteers are invited to sit up front with their groups. This worship time will be the fifth and final lesson of the VBS curriculum, including singing, a skit, a Bible story, and will offer some interactive games/activities. We anticipate the worship service to last approximately 30-45 minutes.
POTLUCK: Please bring your own seating (lawn chairs or blankets), food to share, and your own tableware. Upon your arrival, deliver food to the tables under the shelter. There is a committee of volunteers who will be assisting with arranging the potluck food and providing jugs of drinking water.
IN CASE OF INCLEMENT WEATHER: If needed, the joint worship and potluck will be moved indoors at First Mennonite Church 429 E 1st St. The decision will be made on Saturday evening and each church representative on the VBS planning team is responsible for notifying their own congregation if we choose to move indoors for Sunday. We will also place a notification on the First Mennonite Church website firstmennonitenewton.org.
Many thanks and hope to see you Sunday!
The Week at BCMC: June 1-June 8, 2025 Sunday, June 1, 2025: Worship—10 a.m. at Athletic Park, Newton Potluck lunch to follow; everyone is invited; bring a dish to share, tableware, lawn chairs or blankets
Monday, June 2, 2025 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Library Committee in Room 14 and the Library Monday, June 2 through Friday, June 6 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Newton Community Theater rehearsals in Fellowship Hall Thursday, June 5, 2025 4 p.m. Church Board meeting in Room 14 Sunday, June 8, 2025–Pentecost Sunday—9:30 a.m. at BCMC; communion will be served Sunday, June 8, YouTube Link will be: https://youtube.com/live/E5iIKDq2dUY?feature=share
The Newton Community Theatre Board would like to thank BCMC for being able to begin “Matilda” rehearsals in the Fellowship Hall during June. We appreciate your generosity! Of course we also hope you attend a performance of the musical scheduled for July 18-20 in the Bethel College Krehbiel Auditorium. – Aaron Tschetter and Judy Harder on behalf of the NCT Board
BCMC SUMMER READERS: Be Part of the Picture—Between now and the end of August, take a digital photo of you and your book or of you reading with others. Send the photo as an attachment to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Become part of the BCMC photo collage of summer readers on display in the thering Place.
BCMC Offering for May 25: General Fund $12,329; MCC Meat Canning $500; Sr Hi Youth $100; Kitchen Fund $7; Women’s Fellowship $280; Solar Fund $1,000; Merrill Raber Memorial $670.
BCMC Prayer Network: The Prayer Network is an email-based prayer network comprised of Deacon Commission members and BCMC congregants. Participants make a one-year commitment to this prayer ministry which is coordinated by Pastors and the Office and Facilities Manager. Pastors respond to prayer requests and determine when and how these requests are distributed. Specific prayer requests are shared only with the permission of the person(s) involved. If you would like to join the BCMC prayer network, please email your interest to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org. Thanks to all who serve BCMC in the Prayer Network.
CARE CONNECTIONS, sponsored by Deacon Commission, offers a variety of opportunities for extending care. Do you enjoy conversation? In-person visiting? Visiting by phone? Writing caring messages in cards, email or text? Preparing food or care packages? Delivering food or care packages? Individualized creative care possibilities? To learn more, express interest, or share ideas, please contact Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor for Congregational Care.
Monica Lichti will be on vacation from June 2-13. During these weeks the office will be open Mon., Tues, Wed., Thurs. mornings, and closed on Fridays. For emergencies call Pastor Joanna Harader.
Bethel College Announcements Sunday, June 1 – Kauffman Museum hosts the U.S. premiere of the documentary Where the Cottonwoods Grow by Dale Hildebrand, 3 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Ticket purchase is required – available at the door.
Sat., June 7 – The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, 6 a.m.-8 p.m., as part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and leashed dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee, with members there to answer any questions about the trail.
Sat., June 7 –Kauffman Museum monthly bird walk, 7 a.m. start time in the museum parking lot at the corner of Main and 27th streets (2801 N. Main St., North Newton 67117). Experienced birders lead a walk of 1-1.5 hours in Chisholm Park and on Sand Creek Trail (terrain is mostly wood-chip path and sometimes uneven/sloping)
Camp Mennoscah Announcements: –Camp needs a head cook for June 22-26 and nurses for June 26-28 (3rd & 4th graders), July 13-18 (6th-8th graders), and July 27-Aug. 1 (Senior High camp). Nurses can receive a stipend or parent discount for a camper of up to full camp fees. Contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290 with questions or to claim a week. Camp has other needs, too–maintenance, custodial, musician/guitarist. –Summer Camp registration is still open! We’re taking “Another Way” and finding transformation in Jesus’ way of living. Summer camps are open for those going into grades 3-12. Scholarships are available and parents volunteering as kitchen helpers can receive a discount up to full camp fees for a camper. Register here! (https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/) –2025 Summer Staff In alphabetical order by first name: Camryn Entz (lifeguard), Caroline Miller (crafts leader), Charlie Major (lifeguard), Daniel Miller (naturalist), Josiah Buller (grounds/maintenance), and the newest first-time staffer, Maddie Tegeler (lifeguard). We ask for prayers and cheers for these generous folks. –There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Please communicate with others in your group, if there may be high demand for RV hookups. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups.
Western District Women in Mission’s annual Women’s & Girls Retreat will be Sat., Sept. 6 – Sun., Sept. 7 at Camp Mennoscah. Registration will open on our website on June 7 (register & pay online or print out form and mail with your payment). For more information go to westerndistrictwomeninmission.org This year’s featured speakers are Pastor Katherine Goerzen and Pastor Laura Goerzen. Comforter tying will start Sat. at 10 a.m. Afternoon seminars will include dried flower bookmarks, yoga, guided nature walk, book reviews with Bethany Martin from Faith & Life Bookstore and free time. Come for fun and fellowship!
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States is hiring for the following positions and MCC Lunch & Learn is back: · Do you thrive completing a variety of tasks while connecting with people? MCC Central States is seeking a Volunteer Coordinator for the Material Resources Center in North Newton. This half-time position involves working with volunteers to prepare humanitarian aid for those in need around the world. View the full job description and apply online at mcc.org/cs-volunteer-coordinator by June 2. Contact brociamueller@mcc.org. · The Peace and Justice Practice Coordinator is responsible for planning and coordinating activities that articulate the vision of a holistic, biblical, Anabaptist vision of peace and justice ministry to staff, board, conferences, and churches of MCC Central States. This is a full-time position and is offered in the MCC office in North Newton or remotely in these states: Kansas, Texas, Colorado, Montana, Minnesota, New Mexico, or Oklahoma. View the full job description and apply online at mcc.org/cs-pjp-coordinator by June 4. Contact: andrewwright@mcc.org · The MCC Lunch & Learn is back! Join us Tues., June 17 from 12-1 p.m. at MCC in North Newton, 121 E. 30th St. Becky Teiwes, MCC Central State’s Borderlands Program Coordinator will share about courage, compassion, and faithfulness as MCC continues to work with partners and churches at the U.S./Mexico border. Lunch will be provided for a suggested donation of $10-$15. Please RSVP by June 9 at mcc.org/events/lunch-learn-mcc-partners-usmexico-border or by calling the office at 316.283.2720.
For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements Join Michael Danner, associate executive director for Church Vitality, and Nancy Kauffmann, interim denominational minister of Church Safety, for a webinar, June 2 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, as they orient participants to the updated abuse prevention and accountability policies of Mennonite Church USA. These policies have been revised from the 2016 Ministerial Sexual Misconduct Policy and Procedures. They will also discuss the updated misconduct process, including a new administrative structure and key additions to the policy. Register here: mennoniteusa.org/safe-church-june-webinar
The MC USA Delegate Assembly is Friday, July 11, at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. Delegate resources, including the agenda, bylaws, proposed bylaw changes, previous minutes and proposed resolutions, will be posted on MC USA’s Delegate Assembly website, as they are available. See the web page here: mennoniteusa.org/2025-delegate-assembly-resources/ Register for Delegate Assembly here: mennoniteusa.org/registration/
Follow Jesus ‘25 attendees will have the opportunity to participate in MC USA’s inaugural Menno Makers Market in the Follow Jesus ‘25 exhibit hall. This new area will feature handmade items produced by Anabaptist artisans that are available for purchase. Vendors are invited to apply here by June 1: mennoniteusa.org/form/menno-maker
Menno Snapshots
Cyneatha Millsaps, executive director of Mennonite Women USA, looks forward to the 2025 Mennonite Church USA Women’s Summit by pondering how women can better stand up for themselves and their sisters. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/set-forth-mothers
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for Angola, which is experiencing a cholera epidemic, with more than 13,000 reported cases and nearly 500 reported deaths at the time of the compilation of this prayer request. The outbreak has rapidly spread throughout the country, with those under 20 years old being the most affected. Join the Angolan Mennonite churches in praying, as they care for the sick and pray for healing. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC congregations hosting Vacation Bible School this summer, as they invite children, families, neighbors and other church friends to grow in faith together.
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, or age.
High School Graduate Recognition—Faith Formation Commission
God of wisdom and transitions, today we hold in prayer these beloved young people: Lucy, Payne, Adah, Ani, Mara, Chris, Lily, and Abram.
Thank you for their presence as part of our church community.
We pray your blessings for them as they have graduated from high school and transition into the next stage of their lives.
Grant them your protection and guide them as they go.
We know Jesus came that we might all have life and have it abundantly. So even in the midst of struggles and grief, may these dear ones know the abundant life they have in you.
We pray they will have good friends, meaningful activities, and deep joy.
Holy Parent, guide and guardian, we send them with our love and know that they are forever within your love.
May you, O God, bless them and keep them. May your very face shine on them and be gracious to them. May your presence embrace them and give them peace.
Amen.
*Hymn—Here from all nations (verses 1, 3, 4,5)—HWB 296
Scripture Reading—Revelation 22:1-5, 16-17—Adam, Gabby, and Jake Robb
Sermon—Life-Giving Water—Joanna Harader
*Hymn—Oh, have you not heard—HWB 606
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—O Power of Love—HWB 593 (During the hymn those with May birthdays come forward to receive a birthday blessing.)
*Birthday Blessing and Benediction
Postlude—Tongues of Fire: Pentecost Dance (A. Fedak)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand HWB—Hymnal A Worship Book Audio visual—Ken Lamp
There is much that could be said about today’s music! The centering music, Master Tallis’s Testament, was composed by English composer Herbert Howells (1892-1983) in 1940. It begins with a quiet presentation of a theme inspired by 16th century composer Thomas Tallis and is developed in three variations that build in volume and complexity, contrasting 16th century modality with lush 20th century harmonies. The postlude, by living composer Aldred Fedak, is perhaps less substantial than the Howells, but I think it’s a pretty neat musical description of the Holy Spirit coming at Pentecost in Acts 2: “Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.” Even though it is not yet Pentecost, I wanted to share this piece as I always seem to be out of town when Pentecost actually rolls around. Finally, the hymn O Power of Love deserves mention. A favorite hymn tune and text of many, it is somewhat befuddling why it was omitted from Voices Together. At any rate, its text by Tersteegen (Ich bete an die Macht der Liebe) and tune by Bortniansky seem a perfect match that Mennonites living in Russia adopted soon after its initial publication in the Choralbuch in 1825. It remains a much beloved Kernlied, the so-called core songs of the Russian Mennonites. — Will Wiebe-Friesen
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS May 11, 2025–Sixth Sunday of Easter
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m. go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/iSofBMyRy3c?feature=share
When you arrive at church Sunday morning, be sure to pick up the blue hymnal – Hymnal A Worship Book on the table at the back of the sanctuary.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH May 25, 2025 Sixth Sunday of Easter
High School Graduate Recognition—Faith Formation Commission
God of wisdom and transitions, today we hold in prayer these beloved young people: Lucy, Payne, Adah, Ani, Mara, Chris, Lily, and Abram.
Thank you for their presence as part of our church community.
We pray your blessings for them as they have graduated from high school and transition into the next stage of their lives.
Grant them your protection and guide them as they go.
We know Jesus came that we might all have life and have it abundantly. So even in the midst of struggles and grief, may these dear ones know the abundant life they have in you.
We pray they will have good friends, meaningful activities, and deep joy.
Holy Parent, guide and guardian, we send them with our love and know that they are forever within your love.
May you, O God, bless them and keep them. May your very face shine on them and be gracious to them. May your presence embrace them and give them peace.
Amen.
*Hymn—Here from all nations (verses 1, 3, 4,5)—HWB 296
Scripture Reading—Revelation 22:1-5, 16-17—Adam, Gabby, and Jake Robb
Sermon—Life-Giving Water—Joanna Harader
*Hymn—Oh, have you not heard—HWB 606
Prayers of God’s People
*Hymn—O Power of Love—HWB 593 (During the hymn those with May birthdays come forward to receive a birthday blessing.)
*Birthday Blessing and Benediction
Postlude—Tongues of Fire: Pentecost Dance (A. Fedak)—Will Wiebe-Friesen
* You are invited to stand HWB—Hymnal A Worship Book Audio visual—Ken Lamp
There is much that could be said about today’s music! The centering music, Master Tallis’s Testament, was composed by English composer Herbert Howells (1892-1983) in 1940. It begins with a quiet presentation of a theme inspired by 16th century composer Thomas Tallis and is developed in three variations that build in volume and complexity, contrasting 16th century modality with lush 20th century harmonies. The postlude, by living composer Aldred Fedak, is perhaps less substantial than the Howells, but I think it’s a pretty neat musical description of the Holy Spirit coming at Pentecost in Acts 2: “Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.” Even though it is not yet Pentecost, I wanted to share this piece as I always seem to be out of town when Pentecost actually rolls around. Finally, the hymn O Power of Love deserves mention. A favorite hymn tune and text of many, it is somewhat befuddling why it was omitted from Voices Together. At any rate, its text by Tersteegen (Ich bete an die Macht der Liebe) and tune by Bortniansky seem a perfect match that Mennonites living in Russia adopted soon after its initial publication in the Choralbuch in 1825. It remains a much beloved Kernlied, the so-called core songs of the Russian Mennonites. — Will Wiebe-Friesen
Sunday’s Hymn Requests · God sent his Son was requested by Kathryn Stucky who says: “I heard this hymn sung as a solo and was so moved by it many years ago.” · O Power of Love is a favorite hymn for many people and is not included in Voices Together. In a conversation with Kidron residents, Pastor Elizabeth notes that six BCMC congregants raised their hands when asked how many would like to sing “O Power of Love”, after one person mentioned missing it and it’s strong history of being sung in the former General Conference. – Janet Voth requested this hymn because her dad directed a men’s choir that sang on a radio station and this was the theme song. “I also think love is very powerful,” writes Janet. – Lenore Waltner notes that “the chorale, ‘Ich bete an die Macht der Liebe,’ (O Power of Love) included in our three previous hymnals, has been a favorite in many (General Conference) Mennonite congregations for generations.”
Monday, May 26, 2025—Memorial Day—Church will be locked and church office will be closed Tuesday, May 27 through Friday May 30—Vacation Bible School at First Mennonite Church, Newton, 5-7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025 10 a.m. Anabaptist 500 Anniversary Worship Service from Zurich, Switzerland Viewing in the Sanctuary Anabaptism 500 Worship Celebration. BCMC will host the live-stream of the May 29 worship service at Mennonite World Conference in Zurich, Switzerland, celebrating the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism. The live-stream begins at 10 a.m. in the BCMC Sanctuary. Join us in lifting glad voices with other Anabaptists around the world in this joyful celebration!
Friday, May 30, 2025 11 a.m. Memorial for Helen Bargen in the Sanctuary Saturday, May 31, 2025 Family and friends will gather in memoriam, to honor the lives of Eleanor Claassen Hiebert and Kenneth John Hiebert at Bethel College Mennonite Church. Please contact us if you would like to join us christinehiebert@gmail.com or 347-262-7254 Sunday, June 1, 2025—10 a.m. VBS Sunday in Athletic Park followed by a potluck lunch (If rain, worship and lunch will be moved to First Mennonite Church)
Monica Lichti will be on vacation from June 2-13. During these weeks the office will be open Mon., Tues, Wed., Thurs. mornings, and closed on Fridays. For emergencies call Pastor Joanna Harader.
BCMC Offering for May 11: Gen. Fund $5,063.01; Plant Fund $20; Kitchen Fund $26; Merrill Raber Mem. $50. May 15: General Fund $8,599.16; Merrill Raber Mem. $540.
Community Playschool, Inc. has recently completed our 59th school year! Eighteen children of the Newton community participated in the program this year at a minimal cost to their families, thanks to five area sponsoring churches. We again want to thank BCMC for being one of those supporting churches through monetary donations, the use of the facilities, secretarial and custodial services and a welcoming attitude toward our program. It is nice to have a home here! We also are grateful for the matching grant that we received from this church through the Everence Sharing Fund. We want to acknowledge the service of Cliff Dick as BCMC’s representative on our board, also serving as treasurer. Barb Voran, Stahli Claassen, Carolyn Penner, Cliff Dick and Cynthia Linscheid, served respectively as teacher, helpers, and substitute this year. These volunteers help make it possible for us to continue to provide an affordable preschool experience to families who need it most. A big thanks to Monica Lichti for her extra duties related to our being housed here at BCMC! We would be happy to talk to you about the opportunities we have for your involvement with this program. If you have any interest in volunteering with the children or providing your individual financial support for our scholarship program, please give us a call. We solicit your prayers and continued support for the future of our organization. With gratitude, Co- Directors, Kasey Newell (316 772-3350) and Jeanette Leary (316 217-2548)
BCMC SUMMER READERS: Be Part of the Picture—Between now and the end of August, take a digital photo of you and your book or of you reading with others. Send the photo as an attachment to office@bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org Become part of the BCMC photo collage of summer readers on display in the Gathering Place.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States is hiring for the following positions and MCC Lunch & Learn is back: · Do you thrive completing a variety of tasks while connecting with people? MCC Central States is seeking a Volunteer Coordinator for the Material Resources Center in North Newton. This half-time position involves working with volunteers to prepare humanitarian aid for those in need around the world. View the full job description and apply online at mcc.org/cs-volunteer-coordinator by June 2. Contact brociamueller@mcc.org. · The Peace and Justice Practice Coordinator is responsible for planning and coordinating activities that articulate the vision of a holistic, biblical, Anabaptist vision of peace and justice ministry to staff, board, conferences, and churches of MCC Central States. This is a full-time position and is offered in the MCC office in North Newton or remotely in these states: Kansas, Texas, Colorado, Montana, Minnesota, New Mexico, or Oklahoma. View the full job description and apply online at mcc.org/cs-pjp-coordinator by June 4. Contact: andrewwright@mcc.org · The MCC Lunch & Learn is back! Join us Tues., June 17 from 12-1 p.m. at MCC in North Newton, 121 E. 30th St. Becky Teiwes, MCC Central State’s Borderlands Program Coordinator will share about courage, compassion, and faithfulness as MCC continues to work with partners and churches at the U.S./Mexico border. Lunch will be provided for a suggested donation of $10-$15. Please RSVP by June 9 at mcc.org/events/lunch-learn-mcc-partners-usmexico-border or by calling the office at 316.283.2720. – MCC school kits for South Texas, June 18, 6-8 p.m. Bring your kids, grandkids, and friends to MCC (121 E. 30th St, North Newton) for a fun evening of packing school kits for MCC partner The Sidewalk School. Hear about this partner from MCC Borderlands Program Coordinator, Becky Teiwes and for extra summer fun, enjoy hand-made ice cream from Salted Creamery at the end of the evening. Donations welcome to help cover the cost of school kit materials. For more info: call 316.283.2720. – Sewing Days of Summer, June 20 from 5-8 p.m. and June 21 from 8:30 a.m. -12 p.m. All sewers are welcome to come to MCC (121 E. 30th St, North Newton)! Bring your own projects or sew kit bags/comforters/dignity kits for MCC, everyone from beginners to experts are welcome! Bring your kids or grandkids and pass along the joy of sewing. Please RSVP online at mcc.org/events/sewing-days-summer or call Brocia at 316.836.5054. MCC is excited to begin our third School Kit Challenge! Often families, especially in areas affected by war, cannot afford simple school supplies. In 2024, we invited children, families and churches like yours to pack 24,000 school kits, full of essentials like pencils, notebooks and erasers — and you far exceeded the goal! Now, we are hoping to collect 25,000 school kits in 2025! Just like last year, we are also running a contest on social media where the winners will receive a pizza party courtesy of MCC! You can find the contest details here.
If you’d like to join the challenge and help us promote it, you can sign up below to receive a publicity kit. (We are still happy for you to join in the challenge if you don’t request a publicity kit.) The kit includes:
2 posters (11×17 in) with space for you to add your own information
20 school kit packing instruction cards
20 colorful “Make an MCC school kit” pencils, just for fun!
From MCC U.S.Peace and National Justice Ministries Dear Bethel College Mennonite,Registerto participate in “The promise we dream” Peace Camp, June 16-21!“I will pour out my Spirit on all people” (Joel 2:28, NIV)What does it mean to live into God’s promise? As God’s Spirit is poured out onto us, we are called to go forth searching for and proclaiming justice and love for all. With division and inequalities in our world, we can come together to imagine and create a world that is home to each one of us. Join us for a week of exploration and adventure as we discover and learn how to build bridges across our diverse identities and unique perspectives, living into God’s promise cohesively. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of Camp Deerpark, we will address how to lean into restorative justice, power, and identity both in an interpersonal and societal context.MCC Peace Camps are one-week, hands-on learning experiences for young adults to build community together, experience personal transformation and apply Anabaptist foundations of peace and justice to real world issues.
When: June 16-21, 2025 Where: Camp Deerpark, Westbrookville, New York Who: Young adults aged 18-30 How:Register by May 30. Registration Fee: $250.00 guarantees your spot at the camp. For all New York City residents the fee is $50.00.View and download the flyer.Peace Camps are one way to encourage and support the next generation of the Church to live out an active faith as peacemakers. Young adults, ages 18-30, are invited to apply. MCC covers all costs of travel, lodging and meals beyond the registration fee. We encourage churches, schools, families and friends to support participants in the registration fee where possible. This is an opportunity not to be missed, so tap someone on the shoulder or come join yourself! Warmest regards, Nathan Toews Peace Education Coordinator MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries
Bethel College Announcements · Sunday, June 1: Kauffman Museum will host the U.S. premiere of the documentary Where the Cottonwoods Grow by Dale Hildebrand, 3 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium. Ticket purchase is required. Purchase tickets online at https://kauffmanmuseum.org/event/film-premiere-where-the-cottonwoods-grow/ or at Thresher Shop in Schultz Student Center, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. · Sat., June 7: The public is invited to Walk Sand Creek Trail Day, 6 a.m.-8 p.m., as part of National Trails Day®. Water will be available for people and leashed dogs at the trailhead at Memorial Grove on the Bethel College campus, courtesy of the Sand Creek Trail Committee, with members there to answer any questions about the trail.
Kidron Bethel Village is hosting a vintage car show Fri., June 6, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you have a vehicle you would like to bring to show, we would love to have you share it! Register your vehicle by contacting Kelli at 316-836-4865 or KelliM@bluestemks.org. No entry fee, judging or prizes; just a rewarding day of sharing your favorite cars, trucks and tractors.
Announcing Summer Story Days 2025. Join Western District Conference It’s a Party! Join WDC Resource Library staff for stories and come & go activities for ages 3-8 and their caregivers. New this year: Virtual participation with mailed craft kits available–sign up for virtual participation at forms.gle/8DnWnLs64VkZJoeB6. No sign up for in-person activities in North Newton. Join us June 7, July 12, and August 9. See attached image or flyer for more information or contact Jennie at crlib@mennowdc.org. Resource Library staff for stories and come & go activities for ages 3-8 and their caregivers. New this year is virtual participation with mailed craft kits available–sign up for virtual participation at forms.gle/8DnWnLs64VkZJoeB6. No sign up for in-person activities in North Newton. Join us June 7, July 12, and Aug. 9. See flyer for more information or contact Jennie at crlib@mennowdc.org.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements
Camp Mennoscah Announcements: · The camp needs a commercial vacuum for the pool. The commercial vacuum is an intricate part of the pool process of keeping it clean and running properly and is priced $2,000-$2,500. Please mark donations for Camp Pool Vacuum on the memo line or note field. · Sponsor Pop Break for summer youth camp! Generic pop has been an integral part of Camp Mennoscah for years. The cost per day for a camp with 75 campers and staff is approximately $30. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to be a soda pop hero! · Camp Nurses needed for June 26-28 (3rd & 4th graders), July 13-18 (6th-8th graders), and July 27-Aug. 1 (Senior High camp). Nurses can receive a stipend or parent discount for a camper of up to full camp fees. Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org · Campers! We’re taking “Another Way” and finding transformation in Jesus’ way of living. Summer camps are open for those going into grades 3-12. Scholarships are available and parents volunteering as kitchen helpers can receive a discount up to full camp fees for a camper. Register at https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/
Western District Women in Mission’s annual Women’s & Girls Retreat will be Sat., Sept. 6 – Sun., Sept. 7 at Camp Mennoscah. Registration will open on our website on June 7 (register & pay online or print out form and mail with your payment). For more information go to westerndistrictwomeninmission.org This year’s featured speakers are Pastor Katherine Goerzen and Pastor Laura Goerzen. Comforter tying will start Sat. at 10 a.m. Afternoon seminars will include dried flower bookmarks, yoga, guided nature walk, book reviews with Bethany Martin from Faith & Life Bookstore and free time. Come for fun and fellowship!
For Mennonite Men press here For Mennonite Disaster Service “On the level” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “Service Adventure” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News from around the world” press here For Mennonite Mission Network Announcements press here For Mennonite World Conference “The Courage to Love” press here For Mennonite World Conference “Info” press here
Mennonite Church USA Announcements The Follow Jesus ’25 worship planning committee has announced the worship speakers for MC USA’s national convention in Greenville, North Carolina, July 8-12, 2025. The convention’s overall theme, “Follow Jesus,” is rooted in MC USA’s Renewed Commitments, which call for the denomination to follow Jesus, witness to God’s peace and to be transformed by the Holy Spirit. Read more here: mennoniteusa.org/FJ25-meet-worship-speakers
The Big Dove is here! MC USA has launched an online storefront featuring hats, sweatshirts, mugs and more. Check out the selection of merch that displays Follow Jesus, The MC USA dove and a retro line of gear from past conventions. Every sale helps support MC USA ministries! bonfire.com/store/mc-usa-gear/
Stay up to date on all things Follow Jesus ’25, MC USA’s national convention, by subscribing to the weekly convention newsletter! Subscribe here: mennoniteusa.org/fj25-newsletter
Menno Snapshots
Olivia Krall, archives coordinator for MC USA, shares how the stories of Mennonite women included in the Mennonite Church USA Archives have inspired her to push for a better future. This blog is part of MC USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy” educational campaign. Read more about Krall’s findings here: mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/women-of-the-archives/
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for a Youth Venture team of 11 young adults and two leaders, who are visiting sites in Germany and Switzerland in commemoration of the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism. Pray that their faith will grow, as they begin to understand more about the historical foundations of the church and build global relationships through attending Mennonite World Conference’s Young Anabaptist Global Youth Summit. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Please pray for undocumented persons in church plants that have anxiety about being able to remain safe. -WDC Church Planting Commission
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, or age.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH MAY 18, 2025 – BETHEL COLLEGE BACCALAUREATE SERVICE AT BCMC The Baccalaureate worship service this Sunday starts at 10 a.m., but there will be prelude music from BC music groups starting at 9:30 a.m. Live-stream information follows:
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 7 p.m. Women’s Fellowship Meeting in Fellowship Hall–All are invited! Speaker: Elizabeth Schmidt, “Following the Thread: Walton Dairy Farm to BCMC Pastor.” Wednesday, May 21, 2025 4 p.m. Worship Commission meeting in Room 14 Sunday, May 25, 2025—9:30 a.m. worship at BCMC; High School Senior Recognition; Sermon by Joanna Harader; hymns requested by you (this Sunday the hymns will be from the blue “Hymnal A Worship Book”)
BCMC Offering for May 11: Gen. Fund $5,063.01; Plant Fund $20; Kitchen Fund $26; Merrill Raber Mem. $50. Upcoming Events at BCMC: – May 20, 7 p.m.: Women’s Fellowship meet in Fellowship Hall. All women invited. Speaker Elizabeth Schmidt, Pastor of Congregational Care, on “Following the thread. Walton Dairy Farm to BCMC Pastor.” – May 27-30: Vacation Bible School at First Mennonite Church, Newton–See the VBS Flier at the end of this email.– Anabaptism 500 Worship Celebration. Bethel College Mennonite Church will host the live-stream of the May 29, 2025 worship service at Mennonite World Conference in Zurich, Switzerland, celebrating the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism. The live-stream begins at 10 a.m. in the BCMC Sanctuary. Join us in lifting glad voices with other Anabaptists around the world in this joyful celebration! · May 30, 11 a.m.: Memorial service for Helen Bargen at BCMCOn Saturday May 31, 2025, family and friends will gather in memoriam, to honor the lives of Eleanor Claassen Hiebert and Kenneth John Hiebertat Bethel College Mennonite Church in N. Newton, Kansas.Please contact us if you would like to join us.christinehiebert@gmail.com or 347-262-7254 Invitations to Graduation PartiesLily Schloneger invitation Lily is inviting the congregation to her graduation celebration on May 17, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., 601 N. Main Street, Newton (Prairy Market)Abram Wall invitation We are inviting the BCMC congregation to Abram Wall’s graduation party on Sunday, May 18, from 1:30-3:30 pm at the 1887 Cafe at Bethel College. – Abram and family
Mara Oswald invitation Mara Oswald would like to invite the congregation to her graduation celebration on Sunday, May 18 from 2-4 p.m. at the KIPCOR building, 2515 College Ave, North Newton.Payne Claassen invitation Payne is inviting the congregation to his graduation celebration on May 18, 4 to 6 p.m. at 313 E. 9th Street, Newton. Congratulations to more BCMC Graduates: · Benjamin Gering graduates from the University of Virginia with degrees in Architectural History, Archaeology, and a minor in German. He plans to attend Graduate School next Fall at Columbia University in New York. · Alice Claassen graduated on May 9 from Highland Community College, Highland, KS, with an AA degree in business. Bethel College Announcements · Bethel College advancement and development staff invite you for coffee and conversation (and some light breakfast snacks) Friday, May 23, 7:30-9 a.m., The Breadbasket, 219 N. Main St., Newton (alumni-owned). Contact: George Leary, gleary@bethelks.edu, 316-284-5226 · Sunday, June 1: Kauffman Museum will host the U.S. premiere of the documentary Where the Cottonwoods Grow by Dale Hildebrand, 3 p.m., Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Ticket purchase is required. Purchase tickets online at https://kauffmanmuseum.org/event/film-premiere-where-the-cottonwoods-grow/ or at Thresher Shop in Schultz Student Center, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Central States is hiring for the following positions and MCC Lunch & Learn is back: · Do you thrive completing a variety of tasks while connecting with people? MCC Central States is seeking a Volunteer Coordinator for the Material Resources Center in North Newton. This half-time position involves working with volunteers to prepare humanitarian aid for those in need around the world. View the full job description and apply online at mcc.org/cs-volunteer-coordinator by June 2. Contact brociamueller@mcc.org. · The Peace and Justice Practice Coordinator is responsible for planning and coordinating activities that articulate the vision of a holistic, biblical, Anabaptist vision of peace and justice ministry to staff, board, conferences, and churches of MCC Central States. This is a full-time position and is offered in these locations: the MCC office in North Newton or remotely in these states: Kansas, Texas, Colorado, Montana, Minnesota, New Mexico, or Oklahoma. View the full job description and apply online at mcc.org/cs-pjp-coordinatorby June 4. Contact: andrewwright@mcc.org · The MCC Lunch & Learn is back! Join us on Tues., June 17 from 12-1 p.m. at MCC in North Newton (121 E. 30th St.). Becky Teiwes, MCC Central State’s Borderlands Program Coordinator will share about courage, compassion, and faithfulness as MCC continues to work with partners and churches at the U.S./Mexico border. Lunch will be provided for a suggested donation of $10-$15. Please RSVP by June 9 at mcc.org/events/lunch-learn-mcc-partners-usmexico-border or by calling the office at 316.283.2720. Camp Mennoscah AnnouncementsCamp Mennoscah needs a commercial vacuum for the pool! The vacuum is an intricate part of the pool process of keeping it clean and running properly. We are looking for a commercial vacuum priced around $2000-$2500. The pool is a big life line for campers and others coming to Mennoscah. Please mark donations for Camp Pool Vacuum on the memo line or note field. Thank you for giving to Camp Mennoscah! Other news of camp:Sponsor Pop Break for summer youth camp! Generic pop has been an integral part of Camp Mennoscah for years. Both campers and counselors look forward to that midday sugar rush rush. However, just like how the sugar levels are high, so are the prices. The cost per day for a camp with 75 campers and staff is approximately $30. Contact us at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org to be a soda pop hero!Camp Nurses are needed for June 26-28 (3rd & 4th graders), July 13-18 (6th-8th graders), and July 27-Aug. 1 (Senior High camp). Nurses can receive a stipend or parent discount for a camper of up to full camp fees. Camp can’t happen without a camp nurse–join in the fun! Contact Olivia at 620-297-3290 or olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org with questions or to claim a week.
Calling all campers! We’re taking “Another Way” and finding transformation in Jesus’ way of living. Summer camps are open for those going into grades 3-12. Scholarships are available and parents volunteering as kitchen helpers can receive a discount up to full camp fees for a camper. Register here! (https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/) Come build your house on the rock and play in the sand!
Here are your 2025 Summer Staff! In alphabetical order by first name, these are your amazing staffers: Camryn Entz (lifeguard), Caroline Miller (crafts leader), Charlie Major (lifeguard), Daniel Miller (naturalist), Josiah Buller (grounds/maintenance), and the newest first-time staffer, Maddie Tegeler (lifeguard). We ask for prayers and cheers for these generous folks who are giving their summer to long days of faith formation in both camper time and behind-the-scenes work. Hooray!
There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Please communicate with others in your group, if there may be high demand for RV hookups. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups. Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements. SAVE THE DATE! Western District Women in Mission’s annual Women’s & Girls Retreat will be Saturday, September 6 – Sunday, September 7 at Camp Mennoscah. Registration will open on our website on June 7 (register & pay online or print out form and mail with your payment). Go to westerndistrictwomeninmission.org for more information. This year’s featured speakers are Pastor Katherine Goerzen and Pastor Laura Goerzen. Comforter tying will start Saturday at 10 a.m. Afternoon seminars will include dried flower bookmarks, yoga, guided nature walk, book reviews with Bethany Martin from Faith & Life Bookstore and free time. Come for fun and fellowship! Mennonite Mission Network message “Each of us is wonderfully created” press here For Mennonite Mission Network “News and Beyond” press hereMennonite Church USA Announcements MC USA’s Church Vitality office and Everence have completed their annual update of the Pastor Salary Guidelines (mennoniteusa.org/pastor-salary-guidelines/) for 2025-2026. Learn more here: mennoniteusa.org/news/salary/MC USA invites women from across the denomination to reclaim rest as resistance at the MC USA Women’s Summit on July 8, 2025, a transformative one-day event immediately preceding the Follow Jesus ‘25 national convention in Greensboro, North Carolina. Register and learn more here: convention.mennoniteusa.org/registration/women-summit/ View the PowerPoint slide here: mennoniteusa.org/WIL-summit-slide View the PDF here: mennoniteusa.org/WIL_Summit_PDFWatch the first of two MC USA Women in Leadership webinars, discussing the upcoming Women’s Summit on July 8, 2025, a transformative one-day event immediately preceding the Follow Jesus ‘25 national convention in Greensboro, North Carolina. View it here: mennoniteusa.org/WIL-webinar-recordingMenno SnapshotsAlicia Maldonado-Zahra shares four key takeaways from the 2025 MC USA Hope for the Future conference. This year, the traditionally BIPOC-only event was open to white allies. Read her takeaways here: mennoniteusa.org/sharing-hopeJeanne Zimmerly Jantzi shares her experience healing from the patriarchal abuses she experienced in her life and work. This blog is part of MC USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy” educational campaign. Read more about her experience here: mennoniteusa.org/menno-snapshots/healing-happens/Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for the Brethren in Christ Church in the United Kingdom, which is experiencing growth, due to an influx of members who have immigrated from Zimbabwe. Pray for this church as it recovers its Anabaptist heritage, gains new vitality through the faithfulness of immigrants and learns how to become a multicultural people of God. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC members graduating from high school, college, or higher education programs this spring, that God would bless their continuing journeys of life and faith.Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, or age.
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH May 11, 2025 Fourth Sunday of Easter
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music–Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer (Dale Wood) — Karen Schlabaugh
Welcome–Brad Kohlman
*Hymn–God of Grace and God of Glory–VT 716
Children and Youth Conversation–Nathan & Esther Koontz
Scripture Reading–Acts 9:36-43–Karen Ediger
Sermon–From the Mundane to the Miraculous–Joanna Harader
*Hymn–Healer of Our Every Ill–VT 644
Prayers of God’s People–Brad Kohlman
Welcoming New Members–Elizabeth Schmidt New Members by Baptism (April 27, 2025): Emma Gering, Maisie Brubacher Abram Wall Baptism Videos Introduction to Church Membership–VT 959 New Members by Transfer: Lorin and Karen Neufeld Membership Covenant Questions Welcoming New Members–VT 961
*Hymn–For We Are Strangers No More–VT 409
Sabbatical Blessing for Pastor Nathan–Sondra Koontz and Megan Kohlman
Leader: Nathan, BCMC thanks you for postponing your sabbatical and for calmly guiding us through transitions. We celebrate your leadership, the encouragement and guidance you provide us. And now it is time for a Sabbatical.
Congregation: We acknowledge the unique challenges of pastoral leadership. We send you on this Sabbatical journey, confident that God will bless you, refresh your spirit, and provide you with new vision for our continued ministry. May this Sabbatical be a time of rest and discovery for you.
Leader: We pray that you will enjoy poetry and play, leisurely dreaming and focused reflection, contemplation and rich conversation at the Holy Wisdom Monastery, and moments of wonder in the Colorado wilderness.
Congregation: We will miss you as we continue our ministry here. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, that we support you, and that we look forward with joy to your return.
Nathan: I will miss you as well and I will pray for you. I too look forward to returning and sharing again in our ministry. Thank you for creating this opportunity for renewal and rest in my ministry.
*Hymn of Blessing–The Peace of the Earth Be with You–VT 838
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICE AND ANNOUNCEMENTS May 11, 2025–Fourth Sunday of Easter
Our faith in a God of love leads us, by the power of the Spirit, to follow Jesus in doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
To livestream the worship service:
On Sunday morning, around 9:20 a.m. go to BCMC’s webpage at bethelcollegemennonitechurch.org and click the green button labeled LIVE STREAM on the right side of the screen, which will take you to the worship service. If you get a message in the black box that the video is unavailable, click the gray box below that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. Anytime after the service concludes, you can watch a recording of the service at your convenience by clicking the same green LIVE STREAM button. Again, you will probably have to go to the gray box that says “View Live Stream on YouTube”. That will transfer you to the BCMC YouTube Channel. You will have to click on the tab “Videos” to see all of the BCMC videos. Click the red button to see the bulletin/order of service. OR – click on this link for this Sunday: https://youtube.com/live/KyjoT6sXbOE?feature=share
Lucy Burch Invitation We are inviting the BCMC congregation to Lucy Burch’s graduation party on Saturday, May 10, from 12 to 3 p.m. in the BCMC Gathering Place. – Lucy and family
BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH May 11, 2025 Fourth Sunday of Easter
Christ Candle Lighting
Centering Music–Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer (Dale Wood) — Karen Schlabaugh
Welcome–Brad Kohlman
*Hymn–God of Grace and God of Glory–VT 716
Children and Youth Conversation–Nathan & Esther Koontz
Scripture Reading–Acts 9:36-43–Karen Ediger
Sermon–From the Mundane to the Miraculous–Joanna Harader
*Hymn–Healer of Our Every Ill–VT 644
Prayers of God’s People–Brad Kohlman
Welcoming New Members–Elizabeth Schmidt New Members by Baptism (April 27, 2025): Emma Gering, Maisie Brubacher Abram Wall Baptism Videos Introduction to Church Membership–VT 959 New Members by Transfer: Lorin and Karen Neufeld Membership Covenant Questions Welcoming New Members–VT 961
*Hymn–For We Are Strangers No More–VT 409
Sabbatical Blessing for Pastor Nathan–Sondra Koontz and Megan Kohlman
Leader: Nathan, BCMC thanks you for postponing your sabbatical and for calmly guiding us through transitions. We celebrate your leadership, the encouragement and guidance you provide us. And now it is time for a Sabbatical.
Congregation: We acknowledge the unique challenges of pastoral leadership. We send you on this Sabbatical journey, confident that God will bless you, refresh your spirit, and provide you with new vision for our continued ministry. May this Sabbatical be a time of rest and discovery for you.
Leader: We pray that you will enjoy poetry and play, leisurely dreaming and focused reflection, contemplation and rich conversation at the Holy Wisdom Monastery, and moments of wonder in the Colorado wilderness.
Congregation: We will miss you as we continue our ministry here. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, that we support you, and that we look forward with joy to your return.
Nathan: I will miss you as well and I will pray for you. I too look forward to returning and sharing again in our ministry. Thank you for creating this opportunity for renewal and rest in my ministry.
*Hymn of Blessing–The Peace of the Earth Be with You–VT 838
4 p.m. Bethel College’s Open Road and Woven Concert in the Sanctuary 6 p.m. Bethel College rehearsal in the Sanctuary
Monday, May 12, 2025 7 p.m. Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class invites the public to a Hymn Festival in the BCMC Sanctuary Tuesday, May 13, 2025 7:30 p.m. Finance Committee meeting in Room 14 Wednesday, May 14, 2025 4 p.m. Witness Commission meeting in Room 14 Sunday, May 18, 2025—Bethel College Baccalaureate 10 a.m. (Note the later time for the beginning of worship)
Upcoming Events at BCMC: · May 18, 10 a.m.: Bethel College Baccalaureate at BCMC · May 30, 11 a.m.: Memorial service for Helen Bargen at BCMC
Women’s Fellowship will meet Tues., May 20, 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. All women are invited. The speaker will be Elizabeth Schmidt, BCMC Pastor of Congregational Care, on “Following the Thread. Walton Dairy Farm to BCMC Pastor.”
Anabaptism 500 Worship Celebration. Bethel College Mennonite Church will host the live-stream of the May 29, 2025 worship service at Mennonite World Conference in Zurich, Switzerland, celebrating the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism. The live-stream begins at 10 a.m. in the BCMC Sanctuary. Join us in lifting glad voices with other Anabaptists around the world in this joyful celebration!
BCMC Offering for May 6: Gen. Fund $8,368; MCC $50; Sr Hi Youth $436; Church Retreat $80; Kitchen Fund $21; Solar Fund $50; Merrill Raber Mem. $50; Louise Thieszen Mem. $75.
BACK OF THE SANCTUARY SUNDAY, MAY 11: Check out the display on the Oak Flat prayer vigil and letter writing campaign held on Bethel’s campus last Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. using the chimes on the hour to call together prayer circles, many from BCMC. At least 50 people signed on to pray, phone, and write letters. We will update as we learn information on the case.
Congratulations to BCMC Graduates: · Elizabeth Lamp is graduating from Baker University with a degree in Biochemistry. She will be attending Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine in the fall. · John Mark Koontz is graduating from Wichita State University May 17 with a degree in Music and Instrumental Performance on Double Bass. Newton High School Graduates: · Lucy Burch, Payne Claassen, Adah Hodge, Ani Koontz, Mara Oswald, Christopher Sattler, Lily Schloneger, Abram Wall
Ron Scott, father of Jenni Scott Koontz, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, in Hutchinson after receiving hospice care for the past few weeks. Please keep Jenni, Matt, Caleb, Abby, Naomi and the entire Scott family in your prayers as they grieve his loss.
Abram Wall invitation We are inviting the BCMC congregation to Abram Wall’s graduation party on Sunday, May 18, from 1:30-3:30 pm at the 1887 Cafe at Bethel College. – Abram and family
Mara Oswald would like to invite the congregation to her graduation celebration on May 18th from 2-4 p.m. at the KIPCOR building, 2515 College Ave, North Newton.
Forty-one years ago–in spring 1984–leaders of the Western District Mennonite Conference took away John Linscheid’s ministerial credentials because he is gay. In a worship service at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 11, at Peace Mennonite Church in Lawrence, KS, current WDC leaders will apologize for what their predecessors did. You can read more details about this event on the Western District Conference website. Please contact Pastor Joanna if you would like to carpool with others who are attending from Newton.
Bethel College Announcements · Sun., May 11: Dr. Valerie Mendoza, Kansas City Kansas Community College, “Stories of Mexican Migration to Kansas,” 3 p.m., Kauffman Museum auditorium · Sun., May 11: Woven and Open Road joint concert, 4 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church · Mon., May 12: Dr. Henry Waters’ Hymnology class invites the public to a Hymn Festival, 7 p.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church. Sing and learn more about a selection of hymns from Voices Together. · Fri., May 16: Artist reception for Gracie Higgins, April Powls and Lizzie Schmucker and the Senior Art Exhibit, 7-9 p.m., Regier Art Gallery in Luyken Fine Arts Center. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., Sun. 2-4 p.m. · Bethel College commencement weekend is Sat.-Sun., May 17-18. Events: Nurse Pinning Ceremony, 2 p.m., May 17, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center; Baccalaureate, 10 a.m., Bethel College Mennonite Church; Commencement, 4 p.m., May 18, Memorial Hall. · Bethel College advancement and development staff invite you for coffee and conversation (and some light breakfast snacks) Friday, May 23, 7:30-9 a.m., The Breadbasket, 219 N. Main St., Newton (alumni-owned). Contact: George Leary, gleary@bethelks.edu, 316-284-5226 · SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, June 1: U.S. premiere of the 1874 immigration documentary Where the Cottonwoods Grow, Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
This semester at Bethel College, Dr. Henry Waters has been teaching a Hymnology class, drawing heavily from Voices Together and using C. Michael Hawn’s “seven streams of hymnody.” The public is invited to the class’s culminating activity, a hymn festival at Bethel College Mennonite Church, Monday, May 12, at 7 p.m. The evening will feature a variety of hymns that class members have chosen from Voices Together to reflect the different streams and what they’ve learned in the class. Come and sing some hymns that will be familiar and some that might be new to you.
You are invited to attend the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Relief Sale Annual Meeting Thurs., May 22, 6 p.m., at Hesston Mennonite Church. The cost for the meal is $20/person and you will pay at the door. Please RSVP to Barb BJ Reeves by May 19, 620-543-6863 or bj.reeves@live.com The meeting to celebrate our successful sale and present MCC with a check will be held after dinner at approximately 7 p.m. A filled sandwich bag of California almonds will be available for $20.
Bel Canto Singers concert – “Singing Through Generations” Hesston College’s Bel Canto Singers will perform in concert Fri., May 16, 7 p.m. at Hesston Mennonite Church. The concert is part of commencement weekend activities at the college and is free and open to the public. Bel Canto will begin a 12-day spring tour in the Pacific Northwest following graduation weekend.
Want to visit someone in prison or be a pen pal? Volunteers with M-2 (Match-2) visit one evening a month with an inmate who gets few outside visits. Apply to be an M-2 volunteer at www.ovmks.org/m2 and plan to attend the next volunteer training on May 19, 12:30-4 p.m. at Hutchinson Correctional Facility (in the Old Schoolhouse, just outside the walls). Pen pals correspond monthly with an incarcerated individual, often sending letters through our office. Contact Kenzie Brister to learn more: prison@ovmks.org or 316-281-4721.
Kidron Bethel Village is hosting a vintage car show Fri., June 6, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you have a vehicle you would like to bring to show, we would love to have you share it! Register your vehicle by contacting Kelli at 316-836-4865 or KelliM@bluestemks.org. No entry fee, judging or prizes; just a rewarding day of sharing your favorite cars, trucks and tractors.
Register today for the Mennonite Central Committee Immigration Learning Tour in South Texas, Oct. 4-9. This immigration-focused learning tour presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations making a positive impact on our neighbors. Find out more at mcc.org/learning-tour-texas.
Destination: Greensboro, NC: Mennonite Church USA conference 2025, July 8-12 If interested in being a delegate, contact any Gifts Discernment Committee (GDC) member: Jeanette Stucky, Jerry Buller, Dick Koontz, Francis Toews or the church office. Delegate sessions will be July 12. GDC reimburses registration fees to delegates.
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
Two people needed to help get the pool ready for swimming! The pool needs to be prepared for a summer of fun swim times. We are looking for two college-age or older volunteers to help on May 12. The work is removing everything that has collected in the bottom of the pool, some cleaning–and tasks Olivia doesn’t remember. The bottom of the pool will be slick and lifting will be required. Please contact Olivia at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 620-297-3290. The pool is needed for summer camps and guest groups! Other camp news: A whole universe of thanks to The HUB and everyone who attended the event on May 2!! Thank you for your support and all the fun and music. It was a hoot to see everyone and be part of the fun. The highest bid on the tee shirt quilt/comforter was $500. Calling all campers! We’re taking “Another Way” and finding transformation in Jesus’ way of living. Summer camps are open for those going into grades 3-12. Scholarships are available and parents volunteering as kitchen helpers can receive a discount up to full camp fees for a camper. Register here! (https://campmennoscah.campbrainregistration.com/) Come build your house on the rock and play in the sand! Here are your 2025 Summer Staff! In alphabetical order by first name, these are your amazing staffers: Camryn Entz (lifeguard), Caroline Miller (crafts leader), Charlie Major (lifeguard), Daniel Miller (naturalist), Josiah Buller (grounds/maintenance), and the newest first-time staffer, Maddie Tegeler (lifeguard). We ask for prayers and cheers for these generous folks who are giving their summer to long days of faith formation in both camper time and behind-the-scenes work. Hooray! There are two 20 amp RV hookups and two 30 amp RV hookups available in the south (boys) cabin area on a pole of the gazebo. The hookups/outlets are not spread out. Please communicate with others in your group, if there may be high demand for RV hookups. Camp Mennoscah only has electrical hookups. Weekly music leaders are needed! If you know of someone who you think might be great as a weekly music leader, please tap them on the shoulder. Olivia would love to talk to them. Contact us at olivia.bartel@campmennoscah.org or 316-293-7313 (call or text). Summer staffers must be 18 or older.Camp Mennoscah is busy preparing for summer youth camps and guests. It may take additional time to respond to your email or phone call. We will answer as soon as possible. If a quicker response is needed, please call 316-293-7313.
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements. For Mennonite Mission Network “Missio Deo” press here For Mennonite Men Announcements press here For Mennonite Mission Network “New and Beyond” press here For Mennonite Central Committee “In Touch” press here
MC USA is seeking award nominations for its 2025 Bring the Peace initiative. The denomination grants the award to a Legacy Peacemaker and a Young Peacemaker each year. Submit your recommendations for nominees by May 23: mennoniteusa.org/btp-nominations-2025
Menno Snapshots
The Worship Planning Team for Follow Jesus ’25, MC USA’s national convention, shares the benediction litany ahead of convention. Read the full litany here: mennoniteusa.org/spirit-upon-me
Ana Alicia Hinojosa, senior executive for Ventures at Mennonite Mission Network, has fought against the patriarchy and a hyperproductive world to find her rightful place in society, while also finding rest. Her blog is part of MC USA’s “Learn, Pray, Join: Undoing Patriarchy” educational campaign. Read more about Hinojosa’s experiences here: mennoniteusa.org/weight-patriarchy
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network joins First Mennonite Church of San Francisco (California) this year in celebrating its 50th anniversary and its 50th year of hosting a Mennonite Voluntary Service (MVS) unit. Pray for current MVS participants — Conrad Liechty, Ana Esperanza Neufeld Weaver and Sav Roth Walter — as they help the congregation extend its outreach in the city. Western District Conference Prayer Request: Pray for WDC’s new Kids Meet Christ program, supporting congregations to reimagine worship in ways that fully welcome children and create space for them to meet Christ.
Bethel College Mennonite Church is an open and affirming congregation centered in the life and teachings of Jesus. Embracing the divine within each person, we warmly welcome any and all into fellowship without regard to race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, economic status, marital status, or age.
